St Peter Chanel Catholic Primary School - Regents Park

## 1. Overview St Peter Chanel Catholic Primary School is a Catholic, co-educational primary school serving families in Regents Park, NSW. As a medium-sized community within the Catholic Education Diocese of Parramatta, the school combines faith-based learning with a strong academic program, focused on developing the whole child in a nurturing environment. Class sizes are typically in the low- to mid-20s, allowing teachers to give individual attention and build strong relationships with students. The atmosphere is warm and inclusive, with a culture that emphasises faith, service, and togetherness. Families often report a supportive school community where students are encouraged to grow in character, resilience, and academic confidence. ## 2. Academics & Learning - Academic strengths: Literacy and numeracy are core priorities, with a focus on developing reading comprehension, writing skills, and mathematical thinking. There is an emphasis on faith-based values integrated across the curriculum to support holistic learning. - Special programs: Religious Education is central; opportunities for student leadership and involvement in school-wide initiatives. Some cohorts may have access to extension activities or programmes designed for talented learners. - NAPLAN trends: Over recent years, the school has shown stable performance with gradual improvements in reading and numeracy and consistent achievement across year levels. - Student-teacher ratios: Class sizes commonly in the 20s; overall student–teacher ratio typically around 1:18–1:25, depending on year level and class. - Support for diverse learners: Dedicated Learning Support staff; EAL support for students whose first language is not English; targeted interventions and access to specialist services as needed. ## 3. Sports & Extracurricular Strengths - Sports offered: Soccer, Netball, Rugby League, Cricket, Athletics, Basketball, and Recreation programs; participation encouraged across age groups. - Strong teams or achievements: Competes in diocesan events and local inter-school activities; teams regularly represent the school in regional competitions. - Music, arts, drama programs: School choir, music lessons, and performing arts opportunities; annual musical or drama productions. - Clubs: Robotics, Chess, Coding, Debating and other lunchtime/after-school activities. - Partnerships: Local community clubs and diocesan sports associations; opportunities to take part in inter-school tournaments and workshops. ## 4. Wellbeing & Pastoral Care - Anti-bullying approach: Clear anti-bullying policy, with restorative practices and student wellbeing support to address concerns. - House system: Four houses (named after saints or parish figures) that foster healthy competition and community spirit. - Counsellors / wellbeing officers: Access to school counsellors or wellbeing staff to support students' social and emotional needs. - Transition support for new students: Orientation sessions, buddy programs, and transition visits to help new students settle in. ## 5. Facilities - Sports grounds: Outdoor fields and courts for varied sports. - Libraries: On-site library with classroom resources and reading programs. - Science labs: Dedicated science space for practical experiments and learning. - Music/performing arts centers: Space for rehearsals and performances. - Tech/innovation labs: Computer rooms or makerspaces for coding and design projects. - Cafeteria: On-site canteen or lunch facilities. - Updated playgrounds: Safe, well-maintained playground areas for different age groups. ## 6. School Values & Community Culture - School values / mission: Catholic ethos at the heart of daily learning; emphasis on faith, service, respect, and responsibility. - Leadership style: Collegial leadership with a collaborative approach between principal, staff, and parents. - Behaviour expectations: Clear codes of conduct focusing on respect, safety, and integrity. - Community reputation: Strong parish connection and supportive parent community with active involvement in school life. - Diversity & inclusion: Welcomes families from diverse backgrounds and fosters an inclusive environment. ## 7. School Logistics & Daily Operations - School hours: Typical day from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm with break times; before/after school care options. - Before/after school care: Availability of OSHC through external provider or school program. - Uniform requirements: School uniform; seasonal adjustments; hat policy for outdoor time; uniform shop details to be confirmed. - Transport: Access via local bus routes; proximity to public transport; car drop-off/pick-up arrangements. - Canteen availability: On-site canteen or lunch program offering healthy choices. - Fees: Tuition and family contribution ranges; expected ongoing costs for uniforms, excursions, and materials. ## 8. Enrolment & Admissions 11. What is the enrolment process and timeline? - Submit enrolment application form and supporting documents; wait for interview/meeting with the principal; view school facilities; receive offer of placement; acceptance and enrolment confirmation; timelines vary by year and intake period. 12. Is there a waiting list, and how does it work? - Some year levels may have limited vacancies; applications may be placed on a waiting list; priority considerations may include parish affiliation and existing policy. 13. Are there any entry requirements, tests, or interviews? - Typically, enrolment involves an interview with families; there may be discussion about the school’s Catholic ethos; no mandatory entrance tests; baptism or parish involvement may be considered in some cases. 14. Does the school accept mid-year transfers? - Yes, subject to vacancies and a smooth transition; requires transfer documentation and approvals. ## 9. Frequently Ask Questions - Why Parents Choose This School? - A strong Catholic ethos, supportive community, focus on holistic development, and high value placed on literacy, numeracy, and wellbeing. - What type of student thrives at this school? - Students who are respectful, curious, engaged in learning, and who value faith-based values and community involvement. - What opportunities are available for students to extend their skills (academics, sports, arts)? - Enrichment programs in literacy and numeracy, leadership opportunities, sports teams, arts and drama productions, robotics, coding, chess, and debating clubs. - How does the school communicate with parents? - Regular newsletters, parent-teacher meetings, digital platforms, and timely alerts. - What is the school’s approach to teaching and learning? - Student-centered, differentiated instruction with a strong emphasis on literacy and numeracy, integrated Catholic values, and use of technology where appropriate. - How does the school support students who need extra academic help? - Learning Support, EAL assistance, targeted interventions, and access to specialist staff. - What support is available for academic challenges? - Additional tutoring or targeted supports through the Learning Support Team; collaboration with families to tailor plans. - How does the school communicate with parents? - (See above: newsletters, meetings, digital platforms.) - What are the class sizes and how much individual attention do students receive? - Class sizes typically in the low- to mid-20s; teachers provide regular formative feedback and targeted support. - What extracurricular and sports opportunities are available? - See Sports & Extracurricular Strengths section. - What facilities does the school offer (sports, science, arts)? - See Facilities section. - What is the school’s approach to technology and digital learning? - Integration of digital tools and coding opportunities; emphasis on digital citizenship and appropriate use of technology in learning. - What transport and accessibility options are available? - See Transport in the Facilities/Logistics sections; options vary by location and route. - What are the typical school fees or additional costs? - Fees include tuition and resource/levy charges; additional costs may arise from uniforms, excursions, and activities. ## 10. Short Pros & Cons list Pros - Catholic ethos with a nurturing, inclusive culture - Strong focus on literacy and numeracy - Active wellbeing and pastoral care - Wide range of extracurricular activities - Support for diverse learners and inclusive education Cons - Some year levels may have limited vacancies; wait lists possible - Uniforms and related costs; ongoing annual expenses - Transport options depend on local routes and availability