St Mary’s Parish Primary School - Greensborough

Overview

• Type: Catholic primary (co-educational), part of St Mary’s Parish Greensborough community.
• Size: Medium school with a strong local footprint and active family involvement.
• Atmosphere/culture: Nurturing, faith-based, inclusive and community-oriented with a focus on respect, responsibility and service.

Academics & Learning

• Academic strengths: English and Mathematics are foundational strengths, with emphasis on literacy, numeracy and religious education as part of the curriculum. A culture of high expectations supports critical thinking and learning across key learning areas.
• Special programs: Opportunities for leadership development and enrichment through school-based programs; pathway to advanced learning options where available; supportive approach to diverse learner needs.
• Support for diverse learners: Dedicated support for EAL/D learners, targeted literacy and numeracy interventions, and a coordinated approach to SEN needs within an inclusive education framework.

Sports & Extracurricular Strengths

• Sports offered: Netball, basketball, football (AFL), soccer, athletics, and other team activities as part of inter-school programs.
• Strong teams or achievements: Participation in local inter-school competitions with opportunities for competitive teams and standout performers across age groups.
• Music, arts, drama programs: Active music and performing arts opportunities, school productions, choirs, and ensemble activities.
• Clubs: Robotics, coding, chess, debating and other student-led clubs supporting inquiry and creative thinking.
• Partnerships: Engagement with local community groups and inter-school networks to support competitions, performances and collaborative events.

Wellbeing & Pastoral Care

• Anti-bullying approach: Positive behaviour framework with a focus on respect, empathy and restorative practices to sustain a safe school environment.
• House system: House-based activities and competitions to foster teamwork, leadership and belonging.
• Counsellors / wellbeing officers: Access to school-based wellbeing support and confidential guidance for students and families.
• Transition support for new students: Orientation activities, buddy programs and gradual integration processes to help new students settle in smoothly.

Facilities

• Sports grounds: On-site playing fields and multi-use courts for physical education and fixtures.
• Libraries: Well-stocked classroom and library resources supporting independent reading and research.
• Science labs: Dedicated spaces for hands-on science learning and experiments.
• Music/performing arts centers: Dedicated spaces for music lessons, rehearsals and performances.
• Tech/innovation labs: Computer and digital learning spaces to cultivate tech literacy and creative projects.
• Cafeteria: On-site canteen providing healthy meal options and snacks.
• Updated playgrounds: Modern outdoor play areas and learning courtyards for break times and outdoor learning.

School Values & Community Culture

• School values / mission: Catholic ethos centered on faith, compassion, respect and service to others; emphasis on character and community-minded citizenship.
• Leadership style: Collaborative and inclusive, with opportunities for student voice and visible leadership roles for students and staff.
• Behaviour expectations: Clear, consistent expectations built on respect, responsibility and restorative approaches where needed.
• Community reputation: Strong parish connections and active parent involvement, fostering a family-friendly, welcoming school culture.
• Diversity & inclusion: Inclusive environment that welcomes families from diverse backgrounds and supports equitable access to learning opportunities.

School Logistics & Daily Operations

• School hours: Typical day runs from around 9:00 am to 3:15 pm, with occasional early dismissal on certain days.
• Before/after school care: Available through school-approved or partnered care providers to support families.
• Uniform requirements: Official school uniform with seasonal options (summer and winter) and accessories as per policy.
• Transport (train/bus routes): Access to local transport options; proximity to Greensborough area transport hubs with school liaison for route information.
• Canteen availability: On-site canteen offering healthy meal options and snacks.
• Fees (low/medium/high ranges): Catholic primary school fees at a moderate level; exact figures vary by year and family circumstances—check current prospectus or enrolment guide for details.

Enrolment & Admissions

• 11. What is the enrolment process and timeline?

- Submit an application and required documents (proof of identity, immunisation records where applicable). - Complete any school-specific interviews or family information sessions. - Participate in any student assessment or transition considerations if requested. - Receive an offer of placement when vacancies exist; confirm acceptance within the stated timeframe. - Finalise enrolment with relevant documentation by the deadline.

• 12. Is there a waiting list, and how does it work?

- Yes, there is a waiting list. Placements are often prioritized for siblings and parishioners, with other applicants considered as vacancies arise.

• 13. Are there any entry requirements, tests, or interviews?

- Typically an interview with the family and student; formal testing is not always required, though some cases may include a brief assessment or discussion about learning needs and Catholic formation.

• 14. Does the school accept mid-year transfers?

- Yes, subject to vacancy and completion of the standard enrolment process, including transfer of records and any necessary orientation steps.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Why Parents Choose This School?

- Strong Catholic identity, supportive community, and a focus on holistic development including academics, wellbeing and values.

• What type of student thrives at this school?

- Motivated learners who value belonging, faith-based education, and active participation in community life.

• What opportunities are available for students to extend their skills (academics, sports, arts)?

- Enrichment in literacy, numeracy, leadership opportunities, sport, music and performing arts, and clubs such as robotics, coding, chess and debating.

• How does the school communicate with parents?

- Regular newsletters, agendas or apps, parent-teacher meetings, and timely updates on events and student progress.

• What is the school’s approach to teaching and learning?

- Curriculum aligned with state standards, student-centred approaches, differentiation for diverse learners and a strong focus on literacy and numeracy foundations.

• How does the school support students who need extra academic help?

- Targeted interventions, small-group support, and coordinated support with SEN or EAL/D specialists where applicable.

• What support is available for academic challenges?

- Early intervention, reading and maths supports, and coaching to build confidence and skills.

• How does the school communicate with parents? (Repeated)

- See above: multi-channel updates, meetings, and digital platforms for ongoing dialogue.

• What extracurricular and sports opportunities are available?

- Netball, basketball, football, soccer, athletics, music and performing arts, plus clubs in robotics, coding, chess and debating.

• What facilities does the school offer (sports, science, arts)?

- Playing fields, library, science labs, music/performing arts spaces, tech/innovation labs, on-site canteen and modern outdoor spaces.

• What is the school’s approach to technology and digital learning?

- Integration of digital literacy across the curriculum, access to devices and dedicated tech learning spaces to build 21st-century skills.

• What transport and accessibility options are available?

- Nearby public transport options and school-friendly arrangements for drop-off/pick-up; information on specific bus routes available from the school.

• What are the typical school fees or additional costs?

- Fees are at a moderate level for a Catholic primary; current exact figures and any additional costs are provided in the enrolment guide.

Short Pros & Cons list

• Pros

- Strong Catholic community and values - Supportive wellbeing and pastoral care - Balanced focus on academics, faith, sport, arts and technology - Active parent involvement and parish connections

• Cons

- As a faith-based school, it may be less suitable for families seeking non-religious education - Waiting lists can apply for popular intake years - Uniforms and associated costs are an ongoing consideration - Location-specific transport options may require planning for some families