St Gerard Majella Primary School

## Overview St Gerard Majella Primary School is a Catholic, private primary school dedicated to providing a faith-centered, nurturing learning environment. The school is typically described as a medium-sized community that values inclusive education, strong pastoral care, and close partnerships with families and the local parish. - School type: Catholic private - School size: Medium - Class size: Approximately 20–25 students per class - Atmosphere/culture: Nurturing, inclusive, faith-based, supportive of both individual growth and community involvement --- ## Academics & Learning The school focuses on solid literacy and numeracy foundations while weaving faith-based values into everyday learning. There are opportunities for students to engage in STEM-inspired activities, leadership experiences, and some language study where available. - Academic strengths: English/literacy, numeracy, integrated STEM approaches, leadership development - Special programs: Gifted and Talented/accelerated options where available, religious education and sacramental programs, targeted small-group or tutoring support - NAPLAN / trends: Trends show year-on-year improvement in various domains with steady overall performance; emphasis on building competencies across reading, writing, and numeracy - Student-teacher ratios: About 1:20 (class sizes ~20–25) - Support for diverse learners: EAL/D support, SEN support, and a dedicated learning support team to assist students as needed --- ## Sports & Extracurricular Strengths Extracurriculars and sport are a key part of school life, with a variety of options aimed at developing teamwork, resilience, and personal bests. - Sports offered: Soccer, rugby league, AFL, cricket, basketball, athletics, swimming - Strong teams or achievements: Active participation in local inter-school carnivals and regional events; competitive teams across several sports - Music, arts, drama programs: School choir, instrumental opportunities, drama productions and concerts - Clubs: Robotics, chess, coding, debating, arts and crafts clubs - Partnerships: Local clubs and regional competitions; opportunities to connect with community sports and arts organizations --- ## Wellbeing & Pastoral Care Wellbeing is a central focus, with systems in place to support all students academically, emotionally, and socially. - Anti-bullying approach: Positive behaviour framework with clear reporting channels and restorative practices - House system: Four-house model to foster team spirit, leadership, and belonging - Counsellors / wellbeing officers: On-site wellbeing staff and access to school counsellor services - Transition support for new students: Orientation experiences, buddy programs, and targeted transition support to help newcomers settle in --- ## Facilities The school provides purpose-built spaces and versatile facilities to enhance learning, creativity, and physical activity. - Sports grounds - Library and reading spaces - Science labs - Music/performing arts spaces - Tech/innovation labs or makerspace areas - Canteen - Updated playgrounds and outdoor play areas --- ## School Values & Community Culture Parents often cite a strong, values-based culture that blends faith, character development, and academic achievement. - School values / mission: Catholic values such as faith, compassion, service, respect, and responsibility - Leadership style: Student voice and leadership opportunities within a collaborative, inclusive framework - Behaviour expectations: Clear code of conduct with emphasis on respect, responsibility, and restorative approaches - Community reputation: Positive regard within the local parish and Cairns Catholic education network - Diversity & inclusion: Welcomes families from diverse backgrounds; supports Indigenous students and cultural celebrations --- ## School Logistics & Daily Operations Practical daily logistics help families plan around school life. - School hours: Typically around 8:30 am–3:00 pm with variations by year level - Before/after school care: Out-of-hours care or school-operated programs available - Uniform requirements: Formal school uniform; sport uniform on designated days - Transport: Bus routes and public transport options; convenient drop-off/pick-up arrangements - Canteen availability: Canteen offering healthy, age-appropriate options - Fees: Generally in the low-to-mid range for Catholic primary schools in the region --- ## Enrolment & Admissions 11. What is the enrolment process and timeline? - Submit an online or paper enrolment application, provide required documentation (birth certificate, immunisation records, baptism/catholic confirmation details where applicable), and participate in any school interview or readiness activities. Once accepted, families complete any remaining administrative steps and attend orientation. 12. Is there a waiting list, and how does it work? - Waiting lists may apply when year levels are full. Offers are made as spaces become available, with priority often given to Catholic families and parish-related applicants, then to non-Catholic families if space permits. 13. Are there any entry requirements, tests, or interviews? - Some entry requirements and interviews apply. This can include an interview with families, and in some cases a readiness assessment or onboarding discussions. Immunisation records and proof of identity are typically required. 14. Does the school accept mid-year transfers? - Yes, mid-year transfers are possible subject to space and approval. Families should contact the enrolments team to review available places and transfer timelines. --- ## Frequently Asked Questions - Why Parents Choose This School? - A supportive, faith-based community that emphasizes character, academics, and wellbeing. - What type of student thrives at this school? - Students who value a balanced approach to learning, community, and faith; those who respond well to supportive relationships and structured routines. - What opportunities are available for students to extend their skills (academics, sports, arts)? - Access to leadership opportunities, enhanced literacy and numeracy programs, STEM activities, sports teams, music and drama programs, and clubs such as robotics and coding. - How does the school communicate with parents? - Regular updates through newsletters, emails, parent portals, and open days; parent-teacher conferences are common. - What is the school’s approach to teaching and learning? - A values-driven, student-centered approach combining fundamental literacy/numeracy with integrated learning, hands-on activities, and restorative classroom practices. - How does the school support students who need extra academic help? - Targeted tutoring, small-group support, and learning support staff to assist diverse learners. - What support is available for academic challenges? - Structured interventions, progress monitoring, and collaboration with families to tailor plans. - How does the school communicate with parents? (duplicate question) - See above: newsletters, portals, and scheduled meetings. - What are the class sizes and how much individual attention do students receive? - Typical class sizes of around 20–25 students, with teacher support and targeted small-group instruction as needed. - What extracurricular and sports opportunities are available? - A range of sports (soccer, rugby league, AFL, cricket, basketball, swimming), plus clubs like robotics, chess, coding, debating, and arts programs. - What facilities does the school offer (sports, science, arts)? - Extensive facilities including sports grounds, library, science labs, music/drama spaces, and technology/innovation areas. - What is the school’s approach to technology and digital learning? - Integration of digital tools to support learning, with appropriate supervision and guidelines to promote safe, productive use. - What transport and accessibility options are available? - Local bus routes and transport options, with defined drop-off/pick-up arrangements; accessible facilities where applicable. - What are the typical school fees or additional costs? - Fees fall in the low-to-mid range for Catholic primary schools in the region, with potential costs for uniforms, activities, and excursions. --- ## Short Pros & Cons list - Pros - Strong sense of community and values-based education - Supportive pastoral care and wellbeing focus - Solid academic foundations with targeted support - Broad range of sports, arts, and extracurricular options - Good facilities and safe, welcoming environment - Cons - Enrollment can involve wait lists for some year levels - As a faith-based school, emphasis on Catholic values may influence homeroom activities and community routines - Transport times may vary for families located farther from the campus - Some programs may have additional costs (uniforms, excursions, clubs)