Springbank Secondary College

# 1. Overview Springbank Secondary College in Pasadena is a public, co-educational high school serving families in South Australia’s southern suburbs. The school offers a medium-sized community where students are supported to balance academics with a broad range of extra-curricular opportunities. The environment tends to be inclusive and collaborative, with a strong emphasis on student well-being and positive relationships between staff and students. Key characteristics: - School type: Public - School size: Medium - Class size: Typically 22–28 students per class - Atmosphere/culture: Inclusive, supportive, diverse, and student-focused # 2. Academics & Learning Springbank Secondary College provides a broad curriculum designed to prepare students for the South Australian Certificate of Education (SACE) pathway, with opportunities for VET studies and valued leadership development. Highlights: - Academic strengths: English, STEM, leadership development, and languages; strong emphasis on literacy and numeracy improvement - Special programs: Gifted and Talented pathways, VET/industry-specific options, SACE preparation; opportunities for accelerated learning where available - NAPLAN / trends: Positive trends in reading and numeracy over recent years, with ongoing focus on maintaining steady improvement - Student-teacher ratios: Class sizes around 22–28; overall student-teacher ratios typically in the mid-teens to low twenties per teacher - Support for diverse learners: EAL support, learning support staff, and inclusive education programs for SEN # 3. Sports & Extracurricular Strengths Sports and extracurriculars are a core part of student life, with options designed to appeal to a wide range of interests. - Sports offered: Football (AFL)/soccer, netball, basketball, cricket, athletics, swimming, and other school-level code-based activities - Strong teams or achievements: Active participation in regional competitions with a focus on skill development, teamwork, and school spirit - Music, arts, drama programs: On-site music programs, choir and band opportunities, drama productions and performing arts activities - Clubs: Robotics, coding, chess, debating, and various student-led clubs - Partnerships: Local clubs and regional competitions that provide opportunities beyond the school gates # 4. Wellbeing & Pastoral Care Wellbeing and pastoral care are central to student success, with programs designed to create a safe and supportive learning environment. - Anti-bullying approach: Clear anti-bullying strategies and positive behaviour programs; emphasis on respectful peer interactions - House system: House-based engagement to foster belonging and healthy competition - Counsellors / wellbeing officers: Access to school counsellors and wellbeing staff to support emotional, social, and mental health needs - Transition support for new students: Orientation activities, buddy systems, and targeted support for students starting mid-year or joining from other schools # 5. Facilities The school’s facilities support a wide range of learning and development activities. - Sports grounds: Adequate outdoor spaces for physical education and sports - Libraries: School library resources for research, reading, and study - Science labs: Equipped laboratories for biology, chemistry, and physics - Music/performing arts centers: Dedicated spaces for music practice, ensembles, and drama - Tech/innovation labs: Computer and technology resources to support digital learning and coding - Cafeteria: On-site canteen offering a range of healthy options - Updated playgrounds: Modern outdoor areas for recreation and socialising # 6. School Values & Community Culture Springbank Secondary College fosters a values-led culture with an emphasis on student growth, community engagement, and inclusion. - School values / mission: Respect, responsibility, resilience, and inclusion are central themes guiding daily life - Leadership style: Collaborative, student-centered leadership with opportunities for student voice and leadership roles - Behaviour expectations: Clear positive-behaviour framework applied consistently across the school - Community reputation: Known for a welcoming, supportive atmosphere and active parent engagement - Diversity & inclusion: Commitment to embracing and celebrating diverse backgrounds and abilities # 7. School Logistics & Daily Operations Important practical details help families plan around school life. - School hours: Typical school day runs from morning start to mid-afternoon; exact times vary by year level - Before/after school care: Often arranged via external providers beyond school hours; check with administration for options - Uniform requirements: School uniform is compulsory - Transport: Bus routes and public transport options accessible in the area; convenient for many families - Canteen availability: On-site canteen or lunch facilities with healthy options - Fees: Public schools have low to modest fees for materials and activities; additional costs may apply for specific trips, programs, or resources # 8. Enrolment & Admissions 11. What is the enrolment process and timeline? - Submitting an application or expression of interest through the school or Department for Education processes - Required documentation: birth certificate or identity documents, proof of address, and any school records - Timeline: Enrollment periods follow the SA education system calendar; timelines can vary by catchment and space availability - Orientation and transition: New students may participate in orientation days and receive information about the school 12. Is there a waiting list, and how does it work? - Waiting lists can apply if the school is over-subscribed - Priorities typically follow in-catchment eligibility; out-of-area enrollments may be considered based on vacancies and policy - Notification timelines depend on vacancy status and the official enrollment period 13. Are there any entry requirements, tests, or interviews? - Generally, there are no entrance exams; some schools may conduct brief interviews or discussions to understand student needs - In special cases (e.g., EAL or SEN considerations), assessments or documentation may be requested to tailor support - Mid-year intake may involve intake conversations to ensure appropriate placement and support 14. Does the school accept mid-year transfers? - Yes, where space permits and after completion of required documentation - Transfer process typically includes providing student records, current academic history, and arrival at a suitable placement within the timetable # 9. Frequently Asked Questions - Why Parents Choose This School? - A welcoming public secondary option with broad academic and extra-curricular offerings, strong student support, and a clear focus on wellbeing and inclusion. - What type of student thrives at this school? - Students who enjoy a balanced program, value community and support, and want access to a range of academic, sports, arts, and leadership opportunities. - What opportunities are available for students to extend their skills (academics, sports, arts)? - Advanced coursework and SACE preparation; VET pathways; STEM and coding clubs; debating and public speaking; performing arts; competitive sports teams. - How does the school communicate with parents? - Through emails, newsletters, parent portals, and meetings; regular updates on learning progress and school events. - What is the school’s approach to teaching and learning? - Student-centered and differentiated instruction with emphasis on core skills, collaboration, and critical thinking; focus on literacy and numeracy development. - How does the school support students who need extra academic help? - Targeted learning support, EAL assistance, SEN services, tutoring or small-group interventions, and tailored learning plans. - What support is available for academic challenges? - Access to dedicated support staff, extensions or modifications where appropriate, and guidance on study skills and time management. - How does the school communicate with parents? - See above; multi-channel communications and opportunities to engage with teachers and leaders. - What are the class sizes and how much individual attention do students receive? - Typical class sizes are 22–28 students; teachers provide differentiation, targeted feedback, and opportunities for small-group support. - What extracurricular and sports opportunities are available? - A wide range of sports, music and drama programs, robotics, coding, chess, debating, and other clubs; opportunities to compete in regional events. - What facilities does the school offer (sports, science, arts)? - Sports grounds, libraries, science labs, performing arts/music spaces, technology labs, canteen, and well-maintained outdoor areas. - What is the school’s approach to technology and digital learning? - Emphasis on digital literacy, use of devices and online resources to support learning, and integration of technology across subjects. - What transport and accessibility options are available? - Nearby bus routes and public transport; clear guidance for students commuting to and from school. - What are the typical school fees or additional costs? - Low with public funding; possible additional costs for trips, activities, or materials not covered by the school. # 10. Short Pros & Cons list - Pros - Inclusive, supportive culture with a focus on well-being - Broad academic and co-curricular opportunities (STEM, arts, sports, leadership) - Strong emphasis on student support and transition for newcomers - Balanced class sizes and opportunities for differentiation - Access to VET pathways and SACE preparation - Cons - As a medium-sized public school, demand can lead to waitlists in peak intake periods - Uniforms and some extra-curricular costs may be a consideration for families - Mid-year transfers depend on space and may require additional transition support