St Thomas More Primary School - Mt Eliza

## Overview St Thomas More Primary School is a Catholic co-educational primary school serving families in Mount Eliza and the surrounding community. The school emphasises faith-based learning in a close-knit, supportive environment. Class sizes are typically small to moderate, with around 20–24 students per class, fostering productive student–teacher interactions. The atmosphere is nurturing and inclusive, aiming to develop confident, respectful learners who value their community. School type: Catholic | School size: small–medium | Class size: approximately 20–24 | Atmosphere: nurturing, inclusive, faith-filled learning ⸻ ## Academics & Learning - Academic strengths: Literacy and numeracy are central priorities, with opportunities to grow in STEM concepts, leadership skills, and languages where offered. - Special programs: Catholic faith formation and regular sacramental preparation; gifted/talented or accelerated learning options may be available where appropriate. - NAPLAN trends: Over recent years, public data from similar schools in the region show stable to improving performance in key areas such as Reading and Numeracy, with continued focus on writing. - Student-teacher ratios: Class sizes around 20–24 students support small-group instruction and targeted support. - Support for diverse learners: Dedicated support for English as an Additional Language (EAL) learners and students with additional learning needs (SEN) through school-based programs and specialists. ⸻ ## Sports & Extracurricular Strengths - Sports offered: Athletics, soccer, netball, basketball, cricket and swimming programs (subject to term and facilities schedules). - Strong teams or achievements: Regular participation in regional inter-school events with competitive teams and pride in school sport culture. - Music, arts, drama programs: Active music and performing arts offerings, including choir or instrumental opportunities and school productions. - Clubs: Robotics, chess, coding, debating, and other STEM/academic clubs supplement the curriculum. - Partnerships: Linkages with local community clubs and regional competitions to broaden opportunities for students beyond the classroom. ⸻ ## Wellbeing & Pastoral Care - Anti-bullying approach: Clear policies and programs to promote respectful behavior, with proactive supervision and a safe, inclusive environment. - House system: House structure to foster belonging, healthy competition, teamwork, and leadership opportunities. - Counsellors / wellbeing officers: Access to wellbeing staff and support services to monitor and support student welfare. - Transition support for new students: Orientation activities, buddy programs, and gradual integration supports to help new students settle in. ⸻ ## Facilities - Sports grounds: Outdoor play spaces and sports fields for a range of activities. - Libraries: Central library with a variety of reading resources and learning spaces. - Science labs: Functional science facilities to support practical investigations. - Music/performing arts centers: Space for music tuition, rehearsals, and performances. - Tech/innovation labs: Rooms equipped for digital learning, coding and project-based activities. - Cafeteria: On-site dining options to support daily nutrition needs. - Updated playgrounds: Safe, modern play areas for daily recreation and exploration. ⸻ ## School Values & Community Culture - School values / mission: Faith-based education with a focus on compassion, integrity, respect, and service to others. - Leadership style: Collaborative and child-centered leadership that encourages student voice and responsible decision-making. - Behaviour expectations: Clear expectations around respectful conduct, responsibility, and positive relationships. - Community reputation: Strong sense of belonging and trust within the local community, with active parent involvement. - Diversity & inclusion: Commitment to including all students and celebrating different backgrounds and abilities. ⸻ ## School Logistics & Daily Operations - School hours: Typical primary-day hours; school operates during standard term times with start and finish aligned to the local calendar. - Before/after school care: Programs available to support families outside normal school hours. - Uniform requirements: Clear uniform guidelines that promote a cohesive school appearance and sense of belonging. - Transport: Access to local bus routes and public transport connections as available; details provided by the school and local transport authorities. - Canteen availability: Canteen or snack options on site or nearby facilities, with healthy choices encouraged. - Fees: Fees and associated costs fall within general ranges for Catholic primary schools in the area (to be confirmed with the school). ⸻ ## Enrolment & Admissions 11. What is the enrolment process and timeline? - Begin with an inquiry or Open Day/Information Session. - Submit an application by the school's specified deadline. - Complete any required age/placement checks and provide requested documentation. - Receive notification of eligibility and a place offer within the stated timeline. 12. Is there a waiting list, and how does it work? - Many Catholic primary schools maintain a waiting list when applications exceed vacancies. Placement on the list typically occurs after submission of the application and may be influenced by factors such as sibling priority and enrolment policies. 13. Are there any entry requirements, tests, or interviews? - Entry requirements generally include age eligibility, documentation, and sometimes a brief interview or school visit. Some schools may offer an assessment to determine appropriate placement or support needs. 14. Does the school accept mid-year transfers? - Mid-year transfers are considered where space and policies permit, with a streamlined process to support a smooth transition for the student. ⸻ ## Frequently Asked Questions - Why Parents Choose This School? - A faith-filled, values-driven environment with small class sizes, strong community connections, and a focus on holistic development (academic, social, and spiritual). - What type of student thrives at this school? - Students who respond well to a nurturing, inclusive community with opportunities to engage in faith formation, collaborative learning, and a range of extracurricular activities. - What opportunities are available for students to extend their skills (academics, sports, arts)? - A broad curriculum includes literacy and numeracy development, STEM activities, arts and music programs, sport, and clubs such as robotics, coding, and debating. - How does the school communicate with parents? - Regular updates via newsletters, parent-teacher meetings, digital platforms, and arranged information evenings. Open channels for feedback are encouraged. - What is the school’s approach to teaching and learning? - Student-centered learning with a mix of whole-class, small-group, and individual instruction; emphasis on engagement, critical thinking, and application of skills. - How does the school support students who need extra academic help? - Targeted support within the classroom, alongside additional interventions and access to specialist staff for EAL and SEN needs. - What support is available for academic challenges? - Early identification, targeted in-class support, and collaboration with families to create tailored learning plans. - How does the school communicate with parents? - See above; multiple channels used to ensure timely and clear information sharing. - What are the class sizes and how much individual attention do students receive? - Class sizes are typically around 20–24 students, enabling smaller-group instruction and more personalized support. - What extracurricular and sports opportunities are available? - A range of sports (e.g., athletics, ball sports) plus clubs in robotics, coding, chess, debating, and arts/music programs. - What facilities does the school offer (sports, science, arts)? - Sports grounds, library, science labs, performing arts spaces, tech/innovation labs, and on-site canteen facilities. - What is the school’s approach to technology and digital learning? - Integrated digital learning with access to devices and educational software to support inquiry, collaboration, and creative projects. - What transport and accessibility options are available? - Transport options include local bus services and other arrangements; specifics are provided by the school and local authorities. - What are the typical school fees or additional costs? - Fees fall within the standard range for Catholic primary schools in the region; exact figures are provided by the school upon enquiry. ⸻ ## Short Pros & Cons list - Pros - Catholic, values-based education in a nurturing, inclusive setting - Small-to-medium class sizes enabling individualized attention - Broad range of academic, sporting, and extracurricular opportunities - Strong wellbeing and pastoral care framework - Active community involvement and partnerships - Cons - Enrollment may be competitive; waiting lists can apply - Fees reflect private/faith-based schooling and may be higher than public options - Specific programs or clubs may depend on staff availability and term schedules ⸻