St Thomas More Catholic Primary School

## 1. Overview St Thomas More Catholic Primary School is a Catholic foundational school serving families in the Campbelltown area. The school emphasises faith-based learning within a supportive, inclusive community that values academic growth and positive character development. - School type: Catholic - School size: Medium - Class size: Typically mid-20s per class (varies by year level) - Atmosphere/culture: Nurturing, inclusive, faith-based with a focus on academic progress and service to the community Note: Exact figures and programs can vary year to year. Please check with the school for current enrolment numbers and offerings. --- ## 2. Academics & Learning A focus on building strong literacy and numeracy foundations alongside a structured religious education program. The school integrates technology and critical thinking skills to prepare students for continued learning. - Academic strengths: Literacy and numeracy excellence, religious education, leadership development; emphasis on holistic growth - Special programs: Gifted and Talented opportunities and targeted acceleration where appropriate; digital learning integration and supported reading/writing initiatives - NAPLAN trends: Generally stable to improving trends in reading and numeracy over time, with focused school-wide interventions where needed - Student-teacher ratios: Approximately 1:20 in many classes, with additional support staff where appropriate - Support for diverse learners: EAL support, SEN support, inclusive education practices, specialist staff and targeted interventions --- ## 3. Sports & Extracurricular Strengths A strong offering of sports and extracurricular activities designed to engage boys aged 10–14 and provide opportunities for teamwork and skill development. - Sports offered: Soccer, netball, rugby league, cricket, athletics, basketball - Strong teams or achievements: Participation in local interschool competitions with opportunities for team success and development through regular training - Music, arts, drama programs: School choir, music ensembles, drama productions and performances - Clubs: Robotics, coding, chess, debating, and other enrichment clubs - Partnerships: Connections with local community sports clubs and regional competitions to broaden opportunities --- ## 4. Wellbeing & Pastoral Care A central pillar of school life, focusing on safe, respectful relationships and personal growth. - Anti-bullying approach: Proactive policies, clear reporting pathways, and pastoral support for students - House system: House groups to foster belonging, friendly competition and peer support - Counsellors / wellbeing officers: Access to wellbeing staff and a supportive pastoral care framework - Transition support for new students: Orientation programs, buddy systems, and parent information sessions to ease transitions --- ## 5. Facilities Facilities are designed to support a well-rounded program, with spaces that are welcoming and easy to navigate. - Sports grounds: Adequate fields and courts for major codes and physical education - Libraries: Resource-rich library for reading and research - Science labs: Practical science spaces to support inquiry-based learning - Music/performing arts centers: Venues for concerts, drama, and music education - Tech/innovation labs: Classrooms equipped with digital tools and hands-on learning spaces - Cafeteria: On-site dining and meal options - Updated playgrounds: Safe outdoor spaces for recreation and active play --- ## 6. School Values & Community Culture A community that blends faith, character, and academic growth, with clear expectations for conduct and leadership. - School values / mission: Faith-based education with an emphasis on compassion, service, and integrity - Leadership style: Collaborative and student-inclusive, with opportunities for student voice and peer leadership - Behaviour expectations: Respect, responsibility, resilience, and kindness as daily norms - Community reputation: Positive, family-oriented environment with active parent involvement - Diversity & inclusion: Welcoming to families from diverse backgrounds with inclusive practices --- ## 7. School Logistics & Daily Operations Clear, kid-friendly routines that keep the day structured and predictable. - School hours: Typically 9:00 am–3:15 pm (subject to term/holiday schedules) - Before/after school care: Availability of after-school care programs or supervision - Uniform requirements: Formal uniform with designated sports dress; details provided by the school - Transport (bus routes): Access via local bus services and public transport routes; school may provide drop-off/pick-up guidance - Canteen availability: On-site canteen or lunch order options - Fees (low/medium/high ranges): Moderately priced with potential family discounts and assistance options --- ## 8. Enrolment & Admissions Guidance on joining the school community, with timelines and documentation. - What is the enrolment process and timeline?: Applications typically open at a set period each year, with timelines published by the school; offers follow Assessment of eligibility and space availability - Is there a waiting list, and how does it work?: Waiting lists may apply; priority often given to siblings and parish-based considerations as per school policy - Are there any entry requirements, tests, or interviews?: Orientation sessions, school tours, and possible assessments/interviews for specific programs or year levels - Does the school accept mid-year transfers?: Yes, provided space is available; transfer arrangements include documentation and a smooth onboarding process --- ## 9. Frequently Asked Questions - Why Parents Choose This School? - A faith-based, supportive community with a strong focus on literacy, numeracy, and holistic development; positive peer environment and engaged staff. - What type of student thrives at this school? - Students who value community, faith-based learning, and active participation in both academics and extracurriculars. - What opportunities are available for students to extend their skills (academics, sports, arts)? - Enriched programs in literacy/numeracy, Gifted and Talented opportunities, sports teams, music and drama, robotics, coding, and debating clubs. - How does the school communicate with parents? - Regular newsletters, parent-teacher meetings, digital portals, and ongoing updates from teachers and administration. - What is the school’s approach to teaching and learning? - Evidence-informed practices with a focus on literacy, numeracy, inquiry-based learning, and integrating technology. - How does the school support students who need extra academic help? - Targeted interventions, EAL/SEN support, tutoring or small-group sessions, and access to specialists. - What support is available for academic challenges? - Individualized plans, ongoing progress monitoring, and collaboration between teachers, parents, and support staff. - How does the school communicate with parents? (Repeated) - See above: newsletters, portals, meetings, and direct communication from teachers. - What are the class sizes and how much individual attention do students receive? - Class sizes typically in the mid-20s range, with teacher-led instruction and opportunities for individual feedback within the classroom. - What extracurricular and sports opportunities are available? - A broad mix of sports, music, drama, robotics, coding, chess, debating, and interschool competitions. - What facilities does the school offer (sports, science, arts)? - Comprehensive facilities including sports grounds, libraries, science labs, music/performing arts centers, tech/innovation labs, and a canteen. - What is the school’s approach to technology and digital learning? - Integrated digital learning across the curriculum with access to devices and online resources to support learning. - What transport and accessibility options are available? - Access via local bus routes and public transport, with guidance on drop-off/pick-up; accessible facilities as applicable. - What are the typical school fees or additional costs? - Moderate annual fees with potential additional costs for uniforms, excursions, and activities; financial aid options may be available. --- ## 10. Short Pros & Cons list - Pros - Strong Catholic identity and supportive community - Balanced focus on academics, wellbeing, and character - Broad range of extracurriculars and sports - Inclusive environment with support for diverse learners - Engaged staff and transparent communication - Cons - Demand can lead to waitlists or limited spaces in some year levels - Fees are applicable (as with most independent Catholic schools) - Availability of specific programs may vary year-to-year based on staffing and cohort size