St Michael's Primary School - Dunedoo

## 1. Overview St Michael’s Primary School, Dunedoo is a Catholic, co-educational primary school serving families in and around Dunedoo, NSW. The school offers a small, close-knit learning environment that emphasises faith, community, and holistic development. With a compact campus and a strong sense of belonging, students are supported to grow academically, socially, and spiritually. - School type: Catholic - School size: small - Class size: typically around 20–25 students per class - Atmosphere/culture: nurturing, inclusive, supportive, faith-based Note: For the most current details on enrolments and programs, please check directly with the school. --- ## 2. Academics & Learning St Michael’s focuses on delivering a well-rounded education aligned with the Australian Curriculum, with an emphasis on literacy, numeracy, and religious education within a faith-informed framework. - Academic strengths: literacy and numeracy foundations, strong Catholic Studies, opportunities for leadership and character development - Special programs: religious education integrated with the curriculum; opportunities for school-wide leadership and service; differentiated instruction to meet diverse learner needs - NAPLAN / trends: regional NSW data typically shows steady progress in reading and numeracy; the school uses ongoing assessment to monitor growth and inform targeted support - Student-teacher ratios: small class sizes support individual attention and personalised feedback - Support for diverse learners: learning support where required; targeted interventions; consideration of EAL/SEN needs within available resources --- ## 3. Sports & Extracurricular Strengths A focus on well-rounded development, with opportunities to participate in sport, arts, and clubs. - Sports offered: soccer (football), netball, cricket, athletics, swimming, and other district activities - Strong teams or achievements: participation in local and district competitions; emphasis on teamwork and sportsmanship - Music, arts, drama programs: choir, school performances, and opportunities to participate in arts events - Clubs: robotics, coding, chess, debating, and other ICT/academic clubs as available - Partnerships: connections with local clubs and community organisations; participation in regional sports and cultural events Note: Availability of clubs and teams can vary by year; check with the school for current offerings. --- ## 4. Wellbeing & Pastoral Care A cornerstone of school life, focusing on student welfare and a supportive learning environment. - Anti-bullying approach: clear policies, respectful relationships education, and a proactive culture of inclusion - House system: promotes belonging and healthy competition; encourages teamwork and school spirit - Counsellors / wellbeing officers: pastoral care through the school’s wellbeing team or designated staff; access to support as needed - Transition support for new students: orientation activities, buddy programs, and targeted introductions to school routines and staff --- ## 5. Facilities Facilities designed to support a diverse range of learning experiences in a manageable, student-friendly setting. - Sports grounds: on-site playing fields and shaded activity spaces - Libraries: a dedicated library fostering reading and research - Science labs: science learning spaces aligned with curriculum needs - Music/performing arts centers: spaces for music, drama, and school productions - Tech/innovation labs: computer/information technology resources to support STEM learning - Cafeteria: canteen or lunch arrangements to support healthy eating - Updated playgrounds: age-appropriate play environments and outdoor learning spaces Note: Specific facilities and spaces may vary; contact the school for the latest details. --- ## 6. School Values & Community Culture A faith-informed environment that emphasises respect, service, and community. - School values / mission: grounded in CatholicPrinciples such as faith, service, respect, and responsibility - Leadership style: collegial and student-centred; opportunities for student voice and leadership - Behaviour expectations: clear standards founded on respect and kindness; restorative approaches to conflict - Community reputation: supportive local community with positive involvement in parish and school events - Diversity & inclusion: welcoming to families from diverse backgrounds; inclusive practices in classroom and school life --- ## 7. School Logistics & Daily Operations Practical day-to-day information to help families plan. - School hours: typical day runs during standard NSW school hours; detailed times can be confirmed with the school - Before/after school care: available through school or local providers; check current arrangements - Uniform requirements: standard school uniform with seasonal variations and guidance on footwear - Transport: local bus routes or public transport options; carpooling typically coordinated by families or school - Canteen availability: school canteen or lunch order system in place - Fees: fees fall within a low-to-medium range for Catholic primary schools; exact amounts and payment plans are provided by the school Note: Always verify current schedules, care options, and costs with the school. --- ## 8. Enrolment & Admissions 11. What is the enrolment process and timeline? - Submit an enrolment inquiry or application when vacancies exist - Provide required documentation (birth certificate, immunisation records, more as advised) - Attend any information session or interview as part of the process - Receive notification of enrolment decision and next steps 12. Is there a waiting list, and how does it work? - Waiting lists may apply if vacancies are limited - Placement typically depends on eligibility, family circumstances, and order of application - You’ll be advised of your position and any expected wait time 13. Are there any entry requirements, tests, or interviews? - Most enrolments for primary level do not require formal entrance tests - Family interviews or information sessions may be part of the process - Readiness considerations for Kindergarten (P–K) are commonly discussed; requirements vary 14. Does the school accept mid-year transfers? - Yes, subject to vacancies and enrolment checks - Transfer timelines and required documentation will be provided by the school --- ## 9. Frequently Asked Questions - Why Parents Choose This School? - A close-knit Catholic community with small class sizes, personalised attention, and a values-based education. - What type of student thrives at this school? - Students who benefit from a nurturing environment, strong pastoral care, and a faith-informed approach; those who value community and inclusive learning. - What opportunities are available for students to extend their skills (academics, sports, arts)? - A mix of literacy/numeracy programs, leadership opportunities, sport, music, drama, and ICT clubs; participation in local and district competitions and events. - How does the school communicate with parents? - Regular updates via newsletters, emails, a school app or portal, and scheduled parent-teacher meetings. - What is the school’s approach to teaching and learning? - Australian Curriculum-aligned teaching with a focus on differentiated instruction, literacy and numeracy excellence, and integration of faith-based values. - How does the school support students who need extra academic help? - Targeted interventions through a learning support framework, small-group tutoring, and progress monitoring to tailor assistance. - What support is available for academic challenges? - Access to learning support staff, possible referrals to external specialists, and collaboration with families to set goals. - How does the school communicate with parents? (Repeated) - See above: newsletters, app/portal, meetings, and direct contact with teachers or leadership. - What are the class sizes and how much individual attention do students receive? - Class sizes are small (roughly 20–25 students) with opportunities for individual feedback and teacher support throughout the day. - What extracurricular and sports opportunities are available? - Sports, music, drama, and clubs such as robotics, coding, chess, and debating; participation in local competitions and events. - What facilities does the school offer (sports, science, arts)? - Sports grounds, library, science labs, music/performing arts spaces, tech/innovation labs, canteen, and playgrounds. - What is the school’s approach to technology and digital learning? - Integration of ICT in the classroom, access to devices and digital learning tools, and a focus on safe, responsible use. - What transport and accessibility options are available? - Local bus routes or transport options; accessibility considerations typically addressed in school communications. - What are typical school fees or additional costs? - Fees exist and are described by the school; families may be eligible for concessions or assistance programs—confirm current amounts with the school. --- ## 10. Short Pros & Cons list Pros - Small class sizes with opportunities for individual attention - Strong sense of community and faith-based values - Broad range of extracurriculars (sport, arts, ICT clubs) - Supportive wellbeing and pastoral care - Safe, nurturing environment suitable for younger students and families Cons - As a small school, specialist facilities and course breadth may be more limited than larger schools - Availability of certain clubs/sports may depend on year and staffing - Transport options may be more limited in rural areas - Fees apply (as with most non-government Catholic schools); financial assistance programs vary by year Note: For the most up-to-date information on programs, enrolments, and facilities, please contact the school directly.