St Matthew’s Catholic Primary School - North Fawkner

# 1. Overview - School type: Catholic primary school - School size: Medium - Class size: Approximately 20–25 students per class - Atmosphere/culture: Nurturing, inclusive, faith-based, and community-focused # 2. Academics & Learning - Academic strengths: Core literacy and numeracy with a values-based approach; emphasis on student well-being and personal growth. - Special programs: Religious education and sacramental program; opportunities for extended or gifted learning where available (verify with the school for current offerings). - NAPLAN / trends: Public trend data is not included here; check My School or the school's annual reports for year-to-year trends and progress. - Student-teacher ratios: Typical classroom environments with approximately 1 teacher per class and additional support staff as needed; classes commonly run in the low-to-mid 20s in student numbers. - Support for diverse learners: EAL and SEN support typically available; inclusive education approach with targeted interventions and learning supports as required. # 3. Sports & Extracurricular Strengths - Sports offered: Common school programs include soccer, netball, basketball, Australian rules football, athletics, and cricket depending on the year and resources. - Strong teams or achievements: Inter-school and local competitions often provide opportunities for participation; specific year-by-year achievements should be confirmed with the school. - Music, arts, drama programs: Music programs and performing arts opportunities typically available (choir, instrumental lessons, school productions). - Clubs: Robotics, coding, chess, debating are commonly offered or supported through after-school activities; availability varies by year. - Partnerships: Local clubs and inter-school competitions often form part of the extracurricular landscape. # 4. Wellbeing & Pastoral Care - Anti-bullying approach: Whole-school anti-bullying policy with proactive pastoral care and student-led initiatives. - House system: House groups used to foster belonging, teamwork, and healthy competition. - Counsellors / wellbeing officers: Access to school wellbeing staff or a counsellor/wellbeing lead as part of student support. - Transition support for new students: Orientation activities, buddy programs, and transition support to help new students settle in. # 5. Facilities - Sports grounds: On-site playing fields or courts for physical education and sports. - Libraries: Dedicated library/resource spaces for reading and study. - Science labs: On-site science spaces for experiments and practical learning. - Music/performing arts centers: Rooms or spaces for music, drama, and performances. - Tech/innovation labs: IT/technology facilities to support digital learning. - Cafeteria: On-site canteen or lunch facilities. - Updated playgrounds: Modern, safe play areas and outdoor spaces. # 6. School Values & Community Culture - School values / mission: Faith-based education grounded in Catholic values; emphasis on respect, service, community, and personal integrity. - Leadership style: Collaborative and student-supportive, with opportunities for student voice and leadership within the school community. - Behaviour expectations: Clear expectations around respect, responsibility, safety, and positive conduct. - Community reputation: Generally positive within the parish and local community; strong sense of belonging and family atmosphere. - Diversity & inclusion: Inclusive practices and welcoming environment for students from diverse backgrounds. # 7. School Logistics & Daily Operations - School hours: Typical school day runs through the morning and afternoon; exact times vary by term/cohort. - Before/after school care: OSHC or similar programs may be available; confirm current offering with the school. - Uniform requirements: School uniform with specified items; details provided by the school. - Transport (train/bus routes): Public transport options and nearby bus/train routes; arrangements for drop-off/pick-up may be available. - Canteen availability: Canteen or lunch program typically available; details on offerings provided by the school. - Fees (low/medium/high ranges): Fees generally fall within a low-to-medium range for Catholic primary schools; confirm current schedule with the school. # 8. Enrolment & Admissions 11. What is the enrolment process and timeline? - Generally: Submit an application, provide required documentation (birth certificate, immunization, etc.), and participate in any school-based interviews or assessments as applicable. Timelines vary by year and intake. 12. Is there a waiting list, and how does it work? - Waiting lists are common; placement depends on space and parish/school policy. Apply early and follow the school’s documented process for waitlist placement. 13. Are there any entry requirements, tests, or interviews? - Entry requirements often include identity and immunization verification; some Catholic schools may request a short interview or discussion about values alignment and family commitment. Specific tests or assessments are not universally required; check the school for current requirements. 14. Does the school accept mid-year transfers? - Mid-year transfers can be possible subject to space and placement availability; contact the school early to discuss options and required documentation. # 9. Frequently Asked Questions - Why Parents Choose This School? - A values-based Catholic education with a supportive, close-knit community and a focus on both academic progress and moral development. - What type of student thrives at this school? - Students who are engaged, open to collaboration, respectful of others, and motivated to grow in both academics and character. - What opportunities are available for students to extend their skills (academics, sports, arts)? - Access to core academic programs, potential extension or enrichment options, sports participation, music/drama programs, and a range of clubs (robotics, coding, chess, debating) depending on the year. - How does the school communicate with parents? - Through newsletters, emails, school apps or portals, parent-teacher meetings, and regular updates from teachers and administration. - What is the school’s approach to teaching and learning? - A faith-informed, student-centered approach that emphasizes literacy, numeracy, inquiry, differentiation, and holistic development. - How does the school support students who need extra academic help? - Availability of learning support staff, targeted interventions, EAL/SEN support, and in-class Differentiation to meet diverse learning needs. - What support is available for academic challenges? - Access to teaching assistants, small-group or one-on-one supports, and collaboration with families to set achievable goals. - How does the school communicate with parents? - (Repeated) Through similar channels: newsletters, portals, email, and meetings. - What are the class sizes and how much individual attention do students receive? - Class sizes are typically around 20–25 students, with teacher-led instruction and opportunities for small-group or targeted support. - What extracurricular and sports opportunities are available? - A range of sports, music/drama, and clubs such as robotics, coding, chess, and debating, subject to seasonal offerings and staffing. - What facilities does the school offer (sports, science, arts)? - Sports grounds, libraries, science labs, music/performing arts spaces, tech/innovation labs, canteen, and updated playgrounds. - What is the school’s approach to technology and digital learning? - Integration of ICT in learning with access to devices and digital resources; use of age-appropriate software and online platforms to support instruction. - What transport and accessibility options are available? - Nearby bus/train options; car drop-off/pick-up arrangements; accessibility considerations provided by the school. - What are the typical school fees or additional costs? - Fees exist and contribute to uniforms, activities, excursions, and resources; exact amounts vary by year and program. # 10. Short Pros & Cons - Pros - Catholic ethos and values-based education - Supportive, close-knit community and pastoral care - Focus on core academics (literacy and numeracy) with holistic development - Range of extracurriculars (sports, arts, clubs) - Inclusive approach with support for diverse learners - Planet-friendly and well-maintained facilities - Cons - Catholic identity means alignment with faith-based values is important for families - Availability of programs and clubs can vary by year and cohort - Class sizes, while typical for primary schools, may not suit families seeking very small classes - Fees and uniform costs are an ongoing consideration for some families If you’d like, I can tailor this draft further once you confirm current, school-specific details from the school's official materials (enrolment page, handbook, annual reports, or the My School data).