St Roch's Parish Primary School

1. Overview St Roch's Parish Primary School Glen Iris is a Catholic primary school offering a faith-based, values-driven education in a medium-sized school community. The school focuses on creating a welcoming, inclusive atmosphere where students develop academically, spiritually and socially within a supportive parish environment. School type: Catholic (parish primary) Size: Medium Class size: Typically around 20–24 students per class, with occasional multi-age arrangements Atmosphere/culture: Nurturing, inclusive, faith-informed, with a strong sense of community and belonging 2. Academics & Learning Academic strengths: - Strong literacy and numeracy programs with a focus on high-quality English and mathematics foundations - STEM integration and hands-on learning to build problem-solving and critical thinking - Emphasis on Catholic Education values alongside core academic subjects Special programs: - Gifted and Talented extension opportunities and targeted learning support - Reading Recovery or similar literacy interventions to assist developing readers - Integrated digital technology and iSTEAM experiences to build 21st-century skills NAPLAN / trends: - Monitored across year levels with focus on continual improvement and consistent performance over time - Annual review of cohorts to identify strengths and targeted support areas Student-teacher ratios: - Class sizes in the typical range of 20–24 students; teacher-to-student contact in line with standard primary school practice Support for diverse learners: - EAL (English as an Additional Language) support as needed - SEN (Special Educational Needs) approach with an inclusive education framework and support staff 3. Sports & Extracurricular Strengths Sports offered: - Interschools participation with a range of team sports (e.g., soccer, basketball, netball, athletics) and school-level athletic events - Regular opportunities for physical education, fitness activities, and school sporting days Strong teams or achievements: - Active participation in local inter-school events and district competitions Music, arts, drama programs: - School choir or singing groups, school productions, and opportunities to perform in assemblies and events Clubs: - Robotics, coding, chess, debating and other enquiry-based clubs are offered to broaden interests Partnerships: - Interschools programs, local sporting associations, and community arts partnerships to extend opportunities 4. Wellbeing & Pastoral Care Anti-bullying approach: - Clear anti-bullying policy and positive behaviour framework to promote respect, kindness and safe school culture House system: - House groups support camaraderie, leadership, and healthy competition Counsellors / wellbeing officers: - Access to a school wellbeing team or counsellor to support emotional and social development Transition support for new students: - Structured orientation programs, buddy systems and teacher/staff-led transitions to ease entry for new families and students 5. Facilities Sports grounds: - On-site play spaces and sporting facilities suitable for PE and sports activities Libraries: - Well-stocked library with quiet study areas and resources to support reading and research Science labs: - Dedicated spaces for practical science activities and investigations Music/performing arts centers: - Space for music lessons, rehearsals, and small-scale performances Tech/innovation labs: - Computer or STEM labs to support coding, robotics and digital learning Cafeteria: - On-site canteen or snack facilities supporting healthy food choices Updated playgrounds: - Modern playground equipment and safe outdoor spaces for breaks and play 6. School Values & Community Culture School values / mission: - Focus on compassion, respect, responsibility, and service within a Catholic ethos Leadership style: - Collaborative and student-centered leadership encouraging student voice and responsibility Behaviour expectations: - Clear expectations around conduct, courtesy, and positive relationships Community reputation: - Welcoming, parish-linked community with strong family involvement and support networks Diversity & inclusion: - Commitment to an inclusive environment that welcomes all faiths and backgrounds and supports diverse learners 7. School Logistics & Daily Operations School hours: - Typical school day start and finish times aligned with Victorian primary school schedules; before/after school care options may be available Before/after school care: - OSHC or external providers may offer care before or after school Uniform requirements: - Plain, practical school uniform with seasonal adjustments; clear guidelines on uniform expectations Transport (train/bus routes): - Located with access to local public transport and walking/cycling routes; school can provide guidance on routes and drop-off points Canteen availability: - On-site or nearby canteen options with healthy meal/snack choices Fees (low/medium/high ranges): - Fees fall within the mid-range for Australian Catholic primary schools; detailed information available through the enrolment team 8. Enrolment & Admissions 11. What is the enrolment process and timeline? - Submit an expression of interest or enrolment form during the intake period - Information sessions or open days are typically offered to families - Application is reviewed by the school, with notification timelines provided 12. Is there a waiting list, and how does it work? - There is often a waiting list; placement may depend on availability, family circumstance, parish ties, and sibling factors - Check with the school for current waitlist procedures and expected wait times 13. Are there any entry requirements, tests, or interviews? - An enrolment interview or information session is commonly held - Religious education expectations and family involvement may be part of the process - Some schools may request baptism or confirmation details depending on policy 14. Does the school accept mid-year transfers? - Mid-year transfers are considered where space allows; families should contact the enrolment office promptly to discuss current vacancies and transition requirements 9. Frequently Asked Questions - Why Parents Choose This School? - A faith-filled, supportive community with strong academic foundations and a focus on holistic development - What type of student thrives at this school? - Students who value belonging, community, and growth across academics, faith, and social-emotional skills - What opportunities are available for students to extend their skills (academics, sports, arts)? - Extension programs in literacy and numeracy, STEM and digital learning, arts performances, music ensembles, and interschool sports - How does the school communicate with parents? - Regular newsletters, parent-teacher conferences, and digital updates via the school portal or app - What is the school’s approach to teaching and learning? - Balanced, evidence-informed pedagogy with a focus on literacy, numeracy, inquiry-based learning, and Catholic values - How does the school support students who need extra academic help? - Targeted interventions, reading support, and small-group or one-on-one assistance as needed - What support is available for academic challenges? - Access to specialists, tutoring programs, and progress monitoring to adjust supports - How does the school communicate with parents? (repeated) - See above: proactive, regular, multi-channel communication - What are the class sizes and how much individual attention do students receive? - Class sizes are typically around 20–24 students; teachers provide targeted support within the classroom and during small-group sessions - What extracurricular and sports opportunities are available? - A range of sports, music, arts, and clubs such as robotics, coding, chess, and debating - What facilities does the school offer (sports, science, arts)? - Sports grounds, library, science labs, music/performing arts spaces, and tech/innovation facilities - What is the school’s approach to technology and digital learning? - Integrated digital literacy, coding and ICT skills within the curriculum and age-appropriate technology use - What transport and accessibility options are available? - Local transport options and guidance on practical routes; support for families during transition - What are the typical school fees or additional costs? - Fees fall within mid-range; additional costs may include uniform, extracurricular activities, and excursions 10. Short Pros & Cons list Pros - Catholic, values-based education with a strong sense of community - Moderate class sizes enabling individual attention - Broad curriculum with emphasis on literacy, numeracy, STEM and the arts - Active wellbeing program and inclusive environment - Wide range of clubs, sports, and extracurricular activities - Solid facilities supporting learning across academics, arts and sciences Cons - As a medium-sized school, some specialist programs may have limited capacity compared with larger schools - Availability of certain mid-year transfer places depends on current enrolments and spaces - Fees are in the mid-range; additional costs for excursions, uniforms, and some extracurricular activities If you’d like, I can tailor this content further with any specific details you provide from the school or update any sections to align with the latest information from the school’s leadership.