## Overview
Tamborine Mountain State High School is a public (state) high school serving the Tamborine Mountain community in Queensland. The school offers a broad secondary curriculum with a focus on community, wellbeing and real-world learning. It aims to provide a supportive, inclusive environment where students can grow academically, socially and physically.
The school is medium-sized for a regional Queensland high school, with class sizes typically in the low- to mid-20s. The atmosphere is nurturing and community-focused, balancing academic expectations with opportunities in sport, arts and outdoor education to suit a range of student interests.
## Academics & Learning
- Academic strengths: English and STEM areas are emphasized, with opportunities for leadership development and pathways into further study or vocational options.
- Special programs: Access to senior subjects, vocational education and training (VET) courses, and pathways that support gifted and talented learners where available.
- NAPLAN trends: Local trends show stable performance with year-to-year variation similar to regional patterns; the school places emphasis on literacy, numeracy and consistent improvement.
- Student-teacher ratios: Class sizes are typically in the low- to mid-20s, providing regular opportunities for teacher support and feedback.
- Support for diverse learners: Programs and supports for English as an Additional Language (EAL) students and students with additional learning needs (SEN), including targeted interventions and alongside guidance from support staff.
## Sports & Extracurricular Strengths
- Sports offered: Football codes, netball, basketball, soccer, athletics, cross-country and other field or court-based activities; flexible options to suit student interests and seasonal opportunities.
- Strong teams or achievements: Active participation in regional events with competitive teams and representation at local championships.
- Music, arts, drama programs: Active music and drama offerings with opportunities to perform in school productions and events.
- Clubs: Robotics, chess, coding, debating and other interest-based clubs reflect a diverse range of student passions.
- Partnerships: Local community partnerships and participation in regional competitions and events that extend opportunities beyond the classroom.
## Wellbeing & Pastoral Care
- Anti-bullying approach: Clear anti-bullying policies, school-wide awareness programs and supportive adult networks to address concerns.
- House system: House groups support mentoring, collaboration and school spirit through events and activities.
- Counsellors / wellbeing officers: Access to school-based counsellors and wellbeing staff to support social, emotional and mental health needs.
- Transition support for new students: Orientation programs, buddy systems and targeted transition support to help new students settle in smoothly.
## Facilities
- Sports grounds: Dedicated sports fields and outdoor spaces suitable for a range of activities.
- Libraries: On-site library with study spaces and access to learning resources.
- Science labs: Modern science laboratories for practical learning and experiments.
- Music/performing arts centers: Facilities to support music, drama and performances.
- Tech/innovation labs: Dedicated spaces for coding, robotics and hands-on tech projects.
- Cafeteria: On-site canteen or food service for students.
- Updated playgrounds: Well-maintained outdoor spaces supportive of break times and informal activities.
## School Values & Community Culture
- School values / mission: A culture built on respect, resilience, responsibility and inclusion, with a focus on student wellbeing and citizenship.
- Leadership style: Inclusive, student-centred leadership with opportunities for student voice and involvement in school decisions.
- Behaviour expectations: Clear behaviour expectations that promote a safe and respectful learning environment; restorative practices where needed.
- Community reputation: Known for a supportive, family-like atmosphere and strong community ties within the Tamborine Mountain region.
- Diversity & inclusion: Commitment to inclusion and support for diverse learners, with initiatives to ensure all students feel welcome and valued.
## School Logistics & Daily Operations
- School hours: Typical school day runs during standard daylight hours, with start and finish times aligned to state school schedules.
- Before/after school care: Availability may be through on-site programs or local community arrangements; check current options with the school.
- Uniform requirements: School uniforms are required for everyday wear, with additional sports uniform for physical education and activities.
- Transport (train/bus routes): Access to local transport options (bus services) and parent/carer drop-off; transport details depend on local connections and catchment arrangements.
- Canteen availability: On-site canteen or food service supporting daily meal and snack options.
- Fees (low/medium/high ranges): As a public school, contributions are typically modest and may include voluntary items, uniforms, and excursion costs; actual amounts vary by year and program.
## Enrolment & Admissions
11. What is the enrolment process and timeline?
- Enrolment is typically managed through Queensland Department of Education processes. Families should submit the standard enrolment application, provide required documentation (proof of identity and residence, etc.), and complete any school-specific steps. For Year 7 intake, timelines follow the state calendar, with decisions communicated by the school prior to the start of the school year. For other years, contact the school to confirm available places and timelines.
12. Is there a waiting list, and how does it work?
- If the school reaches capacity, a waiting list may be established. Priority is generally given to students within the school’s catchment area, with non-catchment applications considered based on vacancies. Parents are notified of their position and any required steps if a place becomes available.
13. Are there any entry requirements, tests, or interviews?
- Typically, enrolment in a Queensland public high school does not require an entrance exam. Some programs or supports (for EAL, SEN or gifted pathways) may involve additional information gathering or consultations to determine appropriate placement. An interview is not usually required for standard enrolment, but may occur for certain supports or transition arrangements.
14. Does the school accept mid-year transfers?
- Yes, mid-year transfers can be accommodated where vacancies exist. Families should contact the school as soon as possible to discuss available placements, required documentation (transcripts, enrolment forms, proof of residency, etc.), and the transition plan for a smooth start.
## Frequently Asked Questions
- Why Parents Choose This School?
- A close-knit, supportive community with a focus on student wellbeing, balanced academics, and opportunities in sports, arts and outdoor education.
- What type of student thrives at this school?
- Students who value community, supportive teachers, and a well-rounded program including academics, sports and the arts. It suits those who enjoy collaboration and a campus with a regional feel.
- What opportunities are available for students to extend their skills (academics, sports, arts)?
- Extension in core subjects, senior pathways, VET options, clubs in robotics, coding, debating, music and drama, plus regional sports and arts opportunities.
- How does the school communicate with parents?
- Regular newsletters, emails, school app or portal updates, parent-teacher interviews and calendar notices.
- What is the school’s approach to teaching and learning?
- Student-centred, differentiated instruction with emphasis on literacy, numeracy and practical application of knowledge.
- How does the school support students who need extra academic help?
- Targeted interventions through SEN support, EAL programs, tutoring or study support within or after school hours.
- What support is available for academic challenges?
- Access to learning support staff, counsellors, and specialist services to help with study skills, organisation and motivation.
- How does the school communicate with parents?
- (See above) Regular channels including newsletters, portals, and events to keep families informed and involved.
- What are the class sizes and how much individual attention do students receive?
- Class sizes are typically in the low- to mid-20s, with teachers able to provide regular feedback and some small-group support as needed.
- What extracurricular and sports opportunities are available?
- A range of sports (netball, football codes, basketball, soccer, athletics, cross-country), plus clubs like robotics, chess, coding and debating, and arts programs.
- What facilities does the school offer (sports, science, arts)?
- Sports grounds, libraries, science labs, music/performing arts spaces, tech/innovation labs, canteen, and updated outdoor spaces.
- What is the school’s approach to technology and digital learning?
- Integration of digital learning with access to computer labs, coding and robotics programs, and use of online platforms to support classroom learning.
- What transport and accessibility options are available?
- Local bus services and car drop-off arrangements; some families may use public transport depending on location; school facilities are designed to be accessible.
- What are the typical school fees or additional costs?
- Voluntary contributions, uniform costs and potential excursion or materials fees; exact amounts vary by year and program.
## Short Pros & Cons list
- Pros
- Strong sense of community and wellbeing focus
- Balanced academic, sport and arts offerings
- Supportive staff with access to diverse supports
- Range of clubs and extracurriculars
- Good facilities for a regional high school
- Cons
- Rural location may mean longer travel for some families
- Subject and activity options can be more limited than large-city campuses
- Availability of certain programs may depend on the year and capacity
- Mid-year transfers depend on vacancies and capacity
