St Elizabeth's Catholic Primary School

1. Overview St Elizabeth's Catholic Primary School is a Catholic primary school in Western Australia serving families in the local community. As a faith-based, non-government school, it emphasizes values-based learning, strong relationships, and a caring, inclusive environment. The atmosphere tends to be nurturing and community-focused, with an emphasis on faith formation, wellbeing, and service to others. Size and classroom experience: - School type: Catholic - School size: Medium - Class size: Approximately 20–26 students per class - Atmosphere/culture: Nurturing, inclusive, faith-based with a focus on student well-being, academic growth, and community involvement ⸻ 2. Academics & Learning Academic strengths and focus: - Academic strengths: Literacy and numeracy are central, with emphasis on English and mathematics; strong focus on Religious Education; attention to ICT and general inquiry skills that support lifelong learning - Special programs: Religious education program integrated with core curriculum; opportunities for Gifted & Talented or accelerated learning pathways where available; ICT and digital literacy initiatives; Indonesian (LOTE) programs may be offered - NAPLAN / trends: Typical Western Australian Catholic primary schools show steady progress in literacy and numeracy over time; schools often target consistent improvement across cohorts - Student-teacher ratios: Approximate ratio in the vicinity of 1:15–1:22, with class sizes around 20–26 students - Support for diverse learners: EAL support and SEN assistance available; targeted learning support plans; inclusive education practices and inclusion support staff where offered ⸻ 3. Sports & Extracurricular Strengths Sports and activities: - Sports offered: Soccer, netball, cricket, AFL-style activities, athletics; swimming and fitness activities may be included depending on facilities and season - Strong teams or achievements: Active participation in interschool sports; opportunities to compete in local school networks and regional events - Music, arts, drama: School choir or singing programs, music lessons or ensembles, school drama productions and performances - Clubs: Robotics, chess, coding, debating, and other creative or academic clubs commonly offered - Partnerships: Connections with local clubs, community groups, and regional interschool competitions for broader opportunities ⸻ 4. Wellbeing & Pastoral Care Wellbeing and support: - Anti-bullying approach: Whole-school anti-bullying programs, positive behaviour frameworks, buddy systems and digital safety education - House system: House structure to promote teamwork, leadership opportunities, and healthy competition - Counsellors / wellbeing officers: Access to a school counsellor or wellbeing staff as part of pastoral care - Transition support for new students: Orientation programs, buddy initiatives, and gradual entry support to help new students settle in ⸻ 5. Facilities Facilities (typical highlights you would expect to find): - Sports grounds or fields for physical education and sports - Library or well-equipped resource centre - Science laboratories or dedicated science discovery spaces - Music/performing arts spaces or a dedicated music room - Tech/innovation labs or computer rooms with ICT infrastructure - Canteen or school cafe - Updated playgrounds and outdoor play spaces ⸻ 6. School Values & Community Culture Values and community: - School values / mission: Faith-based formation with emphasis on respect, responsibility, compassion, service, and integrity - Leadership style: Collaborative and student-inclusive, with opportunities for student voice and leadership roles - Behaviour expectations: Clear code of conduct aligned to Catholic values; positive behaviour support; restorative practices where used - Community reputation: Generally viewed as a welcoming, faith-driven community focused on holistic development - Diversity & inclusion: Commitment to an inclusive culture that welcomes families from diverse backgrounds and supports equal opportunities for all students ⸻ 7. School Logistics & Daily Operations Quick logistics: - School hours: Typically around 8:45 am to 3:00 pm (may vary by year level) - Before/after school care: OSHC or similar programs commonly available - Uniform requirements: Standard school uniform as dictated by the school policy - Transport: Local bus routes or public transport connections; drop-off/pick-up arrangements aligned with local services - Canteen availability: Canteen or recess/snack facilities usually available - Fees: Fees are generally in the moderate range for WA Catholic primary schools; additional costs may include books, extra-curricular activities, excursions, and uniform ⸻ 8. Enrolment & Admissions 11. What is the enrolment process and timeline? - Submit an enrolment application by the school's stated deadlines. - Provide required documentation (birth certificate, immunisation records, baptismal certificate or parish reference as applicable). - Attend any required interviews or information sessions. - Receive notification of eligibility and next steps, including any orientation activities. - Complete enrolment and confirm place; pay any deposit or administration fees as required. - Timeline varies by year level and intake, with peak periods before the start of the school year. 12. Is there a waiting list, and how does it work? - Many Catholic primary schools maintain a waitlist when all places are filled for a given year. - Applications may be placed on the waitlist in order of submission and/or priority given to siblings, Catholic families, or parish connections, depending on the school policy. - Families on the waitlist are contacted if a place becomes available. 13. Are there any entry requirements, tests, or interviews? - Entry requirements typically include enrolment forms, proof of identity, and Catholic school placement preference if applicable. - Interviews or information sessions may be part of the process, especially for grade transitions or to discuss readiness and fit. - Some schools may request baptism or parish references as part of Catholic preference policies; specifics vary by school. 14. Does the school accept mid-year transfers? - Many Catholic primary schools do accept mid-year transfers, subject to vacancy and timetable compatibility. - Families should contact the school directly to discuss available places, transfer procedures, and any required documentation. ⸻ 9. Frequently Asked Questions - Why Parents Choose This School? - A faith-based community that prioritizes value-driven education, strong pastoral care, supportive peers, and a focus on the holistic development of each child. - What type of student thrives at this school? - Students who value community, faith-based learning, cooperative teamwork, and a well-rounded program that includes academics, arts, and sport. - What opportunities are available for students to extend their skills (academics, sports, arts)? - Enriched literacy/numeracy programs, leadership and service opportunities, sports teams, music and drama programs, clubs such as robotics, chess, coding, and debating. - How does the school communicate with parents? - Regular updates via newsletters, emails, classroom portals, and parent-teacher interviews; specific platforms may include school apps or portals used by the school. - What is the school’s approach to teaching and learning? - Student-centered learning within a Catholic values framework; emphasis on core literacy and numeracy, critical thinking, digital literacy, and social-emotional development. - How does the school support students who need extra academic help? - Targeted support through learning support staff, intervention programs, individual learning plans, and collaboration with families and specialists as needed. - What support is available for academic challenges? - Access to tutoring or small-group supports, accommodations within classroom settings, and ongoing progress monitoring. - How does the school communicate with parents? (Duplicate question) - See above: newsletters, portals, direct communication with teachers and leadership, school events and information evenings. - What are the class sizes and how much individual attention do students receive? - Class sizes typically around 20–26 students; individual attention is supported through small-group instruction and targeted assistance where available. - What extracurricular and sports opportunities are available? - A range of sports (as listed), music, drama, and clubs such as robotics, chess, coding, and debating; opportunities to participate in interschool events. - What facilities does the school offer (sports, science, arts)? - Sports grounds, library/resource centre, science labs, music/drama spaces, ICT labs, canteen, and well-equipped play areas. - What is the school’s approach to technology and digital learning? - Integrated ICT across the curriculum, use of digital tools for learning, and safe, age-appropriate use of technology as part of everyday learning. - What transport and accessibility options are available? - Local transport options and designated drop-off/pick-up; bus routes where available; accessibility considerations handled per school policy. - What are the typical school fees or additional costs? - Fees are generally moderate for WA Catholic primary schools; additional costs may include uniforms, excursions, and optional activities or resources. ⸻ 10. Short Pros & Cons list Pros - Faith-based, values-driven education with a supportive, family-like culture - Moderate class sizes that support individual attention - Strong focus on well-being, pastoral care, and student safety - Broad academic program with emphasis on literacy, numeracy, and faith formation - Wide range of extracurriculars including sports, music, arts, and clubs - Inclusive approach with support for diverse learners Cons - Private Catholic school fees and related costs (uniforms, activities) may be higher than some public options - Faith-based environment may not suit families seeking non-religious schooling - Location and transport options can vary; some families may need to travel for specific programs or activities - Availability of places can be competitive during peak admission periods ⸻