St Benedict's Primary School

## 1. Overview St Benedict's Primary School is a Catholic, co-educational primary school serving families in Narrabundah, ACT. It operates as part of the ACT Catholic education system, offering a primary program for students in the early years through to Year 6. The school is designed to provide a welcoming, inclusive environment with a focus on faith-based values, community involvement, and strong partnerships with families. - School type: Catholic - School size: Medium - Class size: Typically around 20–25 students per class - Atmosphere/culture: Nurturing, inclusive, values-based --- ## 2. Academics & Learning The school emphasizes a well-rounded curriculum that blends core academic subjects with faith formation and wellbeing. Students are supported to develop foundational skills in literacy and numeracy while engaging with inquiry, critical thinking, and collaborative learning. - Academic strengths: English literacy, numeracy, and religious education with opportunities to connect learning to real-life contexts; emphasis on thinking skills and student inquiry. - Special programs: Enrichment and extension opportunities are available where possible; targeted literacy/numeracy support and programs to support diverse learners. - NAPLAN / trends: Regularly monitors literacy and numeracy progress; aims for steady improvement and consistent performance over time rather than focusing on single-year scores. - Student-teacher ratios: Small to medium class groups that enable teacher presence and individual support; ratio varies by year level. - Support for diverse learners: EAL support for students from non-English-speaking backgrounds; SEN and learning support services available to assist eligible students. --- ## 3. Sports & Extracurricular Strengths The school offers a range of sport and extracurricular activities designed to support physical health, teamwork, and personal interests. The programs often extend beyond class time through clubs and inter-school activities. - Sports offered: Common primary options such as soccer, basketball, netball, and track/field activities; participation in inter-school events is encouraged. - Strong teams or achievements: Opportunities to compete in inter-school competitions and showcase teamwork and school spirit. - Music, arts, drama programs: Active involvement in music, choir, and school productions; participation in performing arts activities is encouraged. - Clubs: Robotics, chess, coding, debating, and other technology or academic clubs are typically available or developing. - Partnerships: Engagement with local clubs and school activities, plus participation in Catholic Education Office events and broader inter-school competitions. --- ## 4. Wellbeing & Pastoral Care Wellbeing is a central focus, with structures and practices to support students’ emotional and social development. The school aims to create a safe environment where students feel valued and supported. - Anti-bullying approach: Clear policies and responsive processes to address concerns; emphasis on respectful relationships and restorative practices. - House system: House-based activities and competitions to promote belonging, leadership, and teamwork. - Counsellors / wellbeing officers: Access to wellbeing staff or school-based counsellors to support students’ mental health and resilience. - Transition support for new students: Induction programs, buddy systems, and targeted support to help new students settle in. --- ## 5. Facilities The school provides facilities typical of a well-equipped primary school, prioritising spaces for learning, creativity, and physical activity. - Sports grounds: Outdoor play areas and sports fields or courts for physical education and events. - Libraries: A library for quiet reading, research, and collaborative learning. - Science labs: Dedicated spaces for hands-on science exploration. - Music/performing arts centers: Rooms or spaces for music practice, rehearsals, and performances. - Tech/innovation labs: Rooms for digital learning, coding, and STEAM activities. - Cafeteria: On-site canteen or lunch facilities supporting daily meals and snacks. - Updated playgrounds: Safe, age-appropriate play spaces and outdoor learning areas. --- ## 6. School Values & Community Culture The school emphasises values-based education and a positive community culture built on respect, inclusion, and service. - School values / mission: Catholic identity with a focus on compassion, respect, integrity, and service to others. - Leadership style: Student voice and leadership opportunities are encouraged within a supportive, collaborative environment. - Behaviour expectations: Clear expectations around respect, responsibility, and safe, inclusive conduct. - Community reputation: A welcoming school community valued by families for its faith-based approach and supportive environment. - Diversity & inclusion: Commitment to inviting and supporting students from diverse backgrounds and abilities. --- ## 7. School Logistics & Daily Operations Practical details to help families plan daily life around school routines. - School hours: Typically a morning to afternoon day with adjustments for term schedules; start and finish times align with ACT primary norms. - Before/after school care: Provision or partnerships for before/after school care may be available. - Uniform requirements: Standard school uniform policy with possible requirements for polo shirts, skirts/shorts, and appropriate footwear. - Transport (train/bus routes): Access to local public transport and convenient routes for families; walking or cycling options encouraged where feasible. - Canteen availability: On-site canteen or lunch facilities to support daily meals and snacks. - Fees (low/medium/high ranges): Fees are generally in the moderate range; exact amounts vary by year level and programs—check current details with the school. --- ## 8. Enrolment & Admissions Enrollment processes and timelines typically follow ACT Catholic education guidelines, with steps designed to acknowledge family circumstances and faith connection. - What is the enrolment process and timeline? - Submit an application during the designated enrolment period; provide requested documents; participate in information sessions or interviews if requested; you'll receive an offer in line with enrolment timelines. - Is there a waiting list, and how does it work? - Waiting lists can occur when demand exceeds places; places are offered based on published criteria and availability, with priority given to sibs and Catholic families where applicable. - Are there any entry requirements, tests, or interviews? - Entry may involve an interview or discussion to understand fit and readiness; documentation confirming identity, residency, and any relevant supports may be requested. - Does the school accept mid-year transfers? - Mid-year transfers are considered if spaces are available; processes align with enrolment guidelines and timelines. --- ## 9. Frequently Asked Questions Answers reflect typical information families seek. Where specific details vary, please verify with the school. - Why Parents Choose This School? - A values-based Catholic education with a nurturing community, strong pastoral care, and emphasis on building character alongside academics. - What type of student thrives at this school? - Students who engage with faith-based learning, value collaboration, and respond well to a supportive, inclusive classroom environment. - What opportunities are available for students to extend their skills (academics, sports, arts)? - Enrichment in core subjects, potential for extended learning opportunities, sports participation, music and performing arts, and clubs such as robotics, coding, debate. - How does the school communicate with parents? - Regular newsletters, parent-teacher conferences, online portals or learning management systems, and timely updates on events and student progress. - What is the school’s approach to teaching and learning? - A balanced approach blending literacy, numeracy, inquiry-based learning, and faith formation within a values-driven framework. - How does the school support students who need extra academic help? - Targeted literacy and numeracy support, learning assistance, and access to specialist staff or intervention programs. - What support is available for academic challenges? - Additional tutoring or intervention plans, classroom accommodations, and collaboration with families to monitor progress. - How does the school communicate with parents? (duplicate) - See above: regular updates, meetings, and online platforms to keep families informed. - What are the class sizes and how much individual attention do students receive? - Class sizes are typically around 20–25 students, with teacher presence and opportunities for individual support throughout the day. - What extracurricular and sports opportunities are available? - Sports programs, music and arts activities, and clubs such as robotics, chess, coding, and debating. - What facilities does the school offer (sports, science, arts)? - Sports grounds, library, science labs, music/performing arts facilities, tech/innovation labs, canteen, and updated playgrounds. - What is the school’s approach to technology and digital learning? - Integration of digital learning tools and coding/tech activities within the curriculum to build ICT literacy and problem-solving skills. - What transport and accessibility options are available? - Access to local transport options, with pathways for walking or cycling where possible; information on routes typically available through the school or local transport providers. - What are the typical school fees or additional costs? - Fees are generally moderate, with additional costs for excursions, activities, and materials; exact amounts vary by year level and program. --- ## 10. Short Pros & Cons list - Pros - Catholic values-based education with a nurturing, inclusive culture - Small-to-medium class sizes enabling teacher support - Strong wellbeing and pastoral care - Broad range of extracurriculars, including arts, sport, and clubs - Modern facilities supporting science, technology, and the arts - Cons - Fees and costs vary by year level and programs; check current details - Availability of places can be competitive during peak enrolment periods - Some programs (e.g., enrichment or advanced tracks) may depend on staffing and funding; inquire for specifics Note: For precise figures, current programs, and definitive enrolment steps, please contact the school directly or refer to the ACT Catholic Education Office guidelines.