Overview
St Augustine's Primary School is a Catholic, co-educational primary school serving families in Coffs Harbour and surrounding areas. As a small-to-medium sized school, it fosters a warm, faith-based community where learning, faith and service are woven into daily life. Class sizes are typically in the range of about 20–25 students, supporting close teacher–student relationships and personalised support.
The atmosphere is nurturing and inclusive, with a strong emphasis on values, wellbeing and pastoral care. The school aims to partner with families and the parish to develop confident, respectful and service-minded students who are prepared for the next stage of their education.
Academics & Learning
- Academic strengths: Focus on literacy and numeracy foundations, with opportunities to engage in STEM-related activities, leadership development and Catholic perspectives on learning. English and mathematics are core priorities, with enrichment in inquiry-based learning where relevant.
- Special programs: Catholic education programs integrated into the curriculum; differentiation and enrichment options within classes; opportunities for leadership development and faith-based service activities.
- Support for diverse learners: EAL support and inclusive practices; access to learning support staff; Individual Education Plans or targeted interventions for students with additional learning needs.
- Sports offered: Soccer, rugby league, cricket, netball, athletics, swimming and other community-relevant activities as part of the school program.
- Strong teams or achievements: Participation in local and district sports events; opportunities to represent the school in regional competitions when available.
- Music, arts, drama programs: Active music program, choir and school drama productions; opportunities to showcase performing arts throughout the year.
- Clubs: Robotics, chess, coding, debating and other after-school clubs as available; participate in inter-school events where possible.
- Partnerships: Connections with local clubs and community organizations for competitions and experiences in sport, STEM and the arts.
Wellbeing & Pastoral Care
- Anti-bullying approach: Clear anti-bullying policies with restorative practices and a focus on respectful relationships and student wellbeing.
- House system: Four-house structure to foster belonging, friendly competition and teamwork, with house events and leadership opportunities.
- Counsellors / wellbeing officers: Access to school wellbeing staff and support for social-emotional learning; targeted support as needed.
- Transition support for new students: Buddy programs, orientation activities and teacher/staff support to ease transitions into the school community.
Facilities
- Sports grounds: On-site play and athletic facilities suitable for daily physical activity and events.
- Libraries: Dedicated library resources to support reading and research across year levels.
- Science labs: Practical science spaces to run experiments and hands-on learning.
- Music/performing arts centers: Spaces for music practice, rehearsals and small productions.
- Tech/innovation labs: Computer and ICT resources to support digital learning and coding activities.
- Cafeteria: Canteen facilities or lunch program to provide healthy meal options.
- Updated playgrounds: Well-maintained outdoor areas suitable for play and exploration.
- School values / mission: Catholic values at the core, emphasising faith, respect, responsibility, compassion and service to others.
- Leadership style: Student voice and leadership opportunities; approachable staff and strong pastoral care support.
- Behaviour expectations: Clear expectations around respectful conduct, collaboration and responsibility; consistent routines and positive reinforcement.
- Community reputation: Known for a supportive, family-friendly environment with active parental involvement.
- Diversity & inclusion: Inclusive culture that values all students, with supports to help every child participate and succeed.
School Logistics & Daily Operations
- School hours: Typical day starts in the morning and finishes in the afternoon, aligning with primary-school conventions.
- Before/after school care: Availability of before- and after-school care through on-site or approved providers.
- Uniform requirements: Full school uniform required; sports uniform for PE days and extracurricular activities; details available via the school uniform policy.
- Transport (train/bus routes): Transport options typically include school bus services or public transport where available; drop-off/pick-up arrangements managed by families.
- Canteen availability: Canteen or lunch program available on certain days; arrangements for lunch orders and healthy options.
- Fees (low/medium/high ranges): Fees are in the moderate range for Catholic primary schools, with annual levies and potential additional costs for excursions or activities. Specifics provided upon enquiry.
Enrolment & Admissions
- What is the enrolment process and timeline?
- Submit an enrolment application with required documents (birth certificate, immunisation records, proof of address, and, where applicable, baptism certificate). Complete household information and any parish-related details. The school conducts an interview with the family and, when appropriate, with the student. Offers of placement follow once space is confirmed. The timeline varies by year and space availability; families are advised to apply early.
- Is there a waiting list, and how does it work?
- Waiting lists are common when intake spots are limited. Positions are typically allocated by application date, with priority given to siblings and then other factors as determined by the school. Applicants may be offered a place if a vacancy arises.
- Are there any entry requirements, tests, or interviews?
- Generally no entrance exams for primary-age entry. Most admissions involve a family interview and discussion of the student’s needs and fit with the school’s programs. Documentation such as birth certificate, immunisation records, proof of address, and baptism (for Catholic families) may be requested.
- Does the school accept mid-year transfers?
- Mid-year transfers are considered if space is available. Transfer applications typically require updated documents, a review of records from the student’s prior school, and may involve a brief meeting or orientation to support a smooth transition.
Frequently Ask Questions
- Why Parents Choose This School?
- A values-based Catholic education in a supportive, close-knit community with emphasis on wellbeing, faith formation and strong literacy and numeracy foundations.
- What type of student thrives at this school?
- Students who respond well to a nurturing environment, appreciate inclusive values, and engage in both academic and faith-based activities.
- What opportunities are available for students to extend their skills (academics, sports, arts)?
- Enrichment in literacy/numeracy, leadership roles, sports participation, music and drama activities, and clubs such as robotics, coding, chess and debating where offered.
- How does the school communicate with parents?
- Through newsletters, email, parent portals or apps, with regular updates on learning, events, and wellbeing.
- What is the school’s approach to teaching and learning?
- A balanced approach that includes direct instruction, inquiry-based learning, differentiation for diverse learners and integration of faith-based perspectives.
- How does the school support students who need extra academic help?
- Targeted learning support, in-class differentiation, access to specialist staff, and opportunities for small-group or targeted interventions.
- What support is available for academic challenges?
- Additional help from teachers and learning support staff, with consideration of Individual Education Plans where appropriate.
- How does the school communicate with parents? (Repeated)
- See above: regular updates via newsletters, portals/apps and direct communication from teachers.
- What extracurricular and sports opportunities are available?
- A range of sports (soccer, netball, cricket, rugby league, athletics, swimming), plus clubs in robotics, chess, coding and debating, and music/arts programs.
- What facilities does the school offer (sports, science, arts)?
- Sports grounds, library, science labs, music/performing arts spaces, ICT/tech labs, cafeteria, and updated playgrounds.
- What is the school’s approach to technology and digital learning?
- Integration of ICT and digital learning into lessons, potential access to devices and computer labs, with a focus on safe, purposeful use of technology.
- What transport and accessibility options are available?
- Bus routes and/or public transport where available; family arrangements for drop-off/pick-up; accessibility provisions as appropriate.
- What are the typical school fees or additional costs?
- Moderate fees with occasional levies and costs for excursions or optional activities; exact amounts provided on enquiry.
Short Pros & Cons list
- Catholic values-based education in a supportive, family-friendly community
- Strong focus on wellbeing and pastoral care
- Variety of extracurriculars and clubs
- Inclusive environment with opportunities for student leadership
- Spaces may be limited; waitlists can apply during peak years
- Fees are required (typical for private Catholic schooling) and vary by year and program
- Specific programs and clubs may vary year to year based on staffing and funding
