## 1. Overview
Tingha Public School is a public, co-educational primary school serving Tingha and the surrounding rural community in New South Wales. As a small school, it offers a warm, close-knit learning environment where teachers know students well and families feel connected to the school community.
- School type: Public
- School size: Small
- Class size: Typically 18–22 students per class (varies by year)
- Atmosphere/culture: Nurturing, inclusive, community-focused with emphasis on both academics and sport
## 2. Academics & Learning
Tingha Public School emphasizes fundamental literacy and numeracy while providing opportunities to explore STEM, the arts, and leadership. The learning program is designed to be engaging and hands-on, helping students build a strong academic base in a rural setting.
- Academic strengths: Literacy and numeracy foundations, practical STEM learning, opportunities for student leadership, and digital literacy
- Special programs: Gifted and talented opportunities and accelerated learning where available; participation in NSW Department of Education programs as offered
- NAPLAN trends: Generally consistent performance with gradual improvement in key areas; trends align with NSW state averages over time
- Student-teacher ratios: Typical ratios around 1:12–1:20, depending on year level and class configuration
- Support for diverse learners: EAL/SEN support available; access to learning support staff and targeted interventions; inclusive education approach
## 3. Sports & Extracurricular Strengths
Extracurricular activities help students develop teamwork, resilience, and a love of learning. Tingha Public School supports a range of sports and clubs, with an emphasis on participation and personal growth.
- Sports offered: Cricket, rugby league, football (soccer), netball, athletics, cross-country (availability can vary by year)
- Strong teams or achievements: Active participation in district-level events and school-based teams; focus on sportslmanship and yearly development
- Music, arts, drama programs: School music activities and performing arts opportunities; local concerts and mini-performances
- Clubs: Robotics, chess, coding, debating (availability may vary by year)
- Partnerships: Local community connections and opportunities to participate in district or inter-school events and activities
## 4. Wellbeing & Pastoral Care
Wellbeing and pastoral care are central to student success. The school fosters a safe, respectful environment with systems to support every student.
- Anti-bullying approach: Clear policies, proactive bullying prevention, and restorative practices to support positive relationships
- House system: House groups used for events and positive competition
- Counsellors / wellbeing officers: Access to wellbeing staff or school counsellor as needed
- Transition support for new students: Orientation, buddy systems, and targeted transition support to help students settle in
## 5. Facilities
The facilities support a varied learning program, enrichment activities, and community events. The school aims to provide well-maintained spaces that are visually engaging and easy to navigate.
- Sports grounds: Oval and courts for daily PE and sports
- Libraries: Library resources and reading spaces
- Science labs: Dedicated science spaces or multi-use labs
- Music/performing arts centers: Music room and multipurpose spaces for performances
- Tech/innovation labs: Computer/tech spaces to support coding and digital learning
- Cafeteria: Canteen or school kitchen with on-site dining options when available
- Updated playgrounds: Outdoor play areas and learning spaces
## 6. School Values & Community Culture
Tingha Public School aims to foster responsible, respectful, curious learners who contribute positively to their community.
- School values / mission: Common NSW public-school values such as respect, responsibility, safety, and cooperation
- Leadership style: Inclusive and participatory, with student voice via councils or committees
- Behaviour expectations: Clear codes of conduct with positive reinforcement and restorative approaches
- Community reputation: A welcoming, family-oriented rural school with strong ties to the Tingha community
- Diversity & inclusion: Commitment to inclusion and support for all students, including culturally and linguistically diverse learners
## 7. School Logistics & Daily Operations
Practical information to help families plan around school life.
- School hours: Typical day runs from morning to mid-afternoon; exact times may vary by year
- Before/after school care: Occasional or available depending on term; check with the school
- Uniform requirements: NSW public schools require a school uniform; specifics provided by the school
- Transport (train/bus routes): Local bus routes servicing Tingha and nearby communities; some students may rely on bus transport
- Canteen availability: Canteen or lunch options available on certain days
- Fees (low/medium/high ranges): Public school tuition is not charged; there may be voluntary contributions and costs for excursions, uniforms, and occasional activities
## 8. Enrolment & Admissions
11. What is the enrolment process and timeline?
- Enrolment is managed through the NSW Department of Education. Start by confirming catchment eligibility for Tingha Public School and then complete the school’s enrolment forms. Prepare documents (birth certificate, immunisation history, proof of address, custody orders if applicable). Submit the enrolment form to the school. The school will review and confirm placement, with notifications typically provided ahead of the new term. Exact timelines can vary by term and space.
12. Is there a waiting list, and how does it work?
- If the school has limited places, a waitlist may apply. Priority is generally given to students within the catchment area. Families can register their interest and maintain contact with the school for updates on availability and enrolment timelines.
13. Are there any entry requirements, tests, or interviews?
- There are no standard entrance tests for primary school enrolment. An orientation or informal meeting may be offered to discuss the child’s needs, placement, and supports (including EAL or SEN). The process focuses on ensuring appropriate placement and continuity of education.
14. Does the school accept mid-year transfers?
- Yes, subject to space and available places. Mid-year transfers require coordination with the receiving school, submission of prior school records, immunisation details, and any necessary transition planning to support the student’s continuity of learning.
## 9. Frequently Ask Questions
- Why Parents Choose This School?
- A small, supportive community with attentive teachers, strong literacy/numeracy focus, balanced emphasis on academics, sport, and arts, and a sense of belonging.
- What type of student thrives at this school?
- Students who enjoy a close-knit, caring environment, value personalised attention, and engage in both classroom learning and community activities.
- What opportunities are available for students to extend their skills (academics, sports, arts)?
- Opportunities across academics, sports teams, music and arts programs, and clubs such as robotics, chess, coding, and debating; leadership roles through student councils where offered.
- How does the school communicate with parents?
- Through newsletters, email, school portal/app, parent-teacher meetings, and phone or in-person updates.
- What is the school’s approach to teaching and learning?
- A balanced, student-centered approach focused on literacy and numeracy, inquiry-based and differentiated learning, integration of technology, and inclusive teaching practices.
- How does the school support students who need extra academic help?
- Small-group support, targeted in-class interventions, EAL/SEN assistance, and access to learning support staff as needed.
- What support is available for academic challenges?
- Early intervention, progress monitoring, individualized supports, and referrals to additional services when necessary.
- How does the school communicate with parents?
- See above: newsletters, portal/app, meetings, and direct contact from teachers.
- What are the class sizes and how much individual attention do students receive?
- Class sizes typically range around 18–22 students; teachers provide feedback and differentiation, with additional support from aides or specialists as available.
- What extracurricular and sports opportunities are available?
- A range of sports (depending on year and term), plus clubs such as robotics, chess, coding, and debating; local and district events provide competition and performance opportunities.
- What facilities does the school offer (sports, science, arts)?
- On-site sports grounds, library, science spaces, music/arts rooms, tech/innovation spaces, and canteen facilities where available.
- What is the school’s approach to technology and digital learning?
- Integration of technology in learning, emphasis on digital literacy and safe, responsible use of technology; development of IT skills through classroom activities and coding opportunities.
- What transport and accessibility options are available?
- Local bus routes and school transport where offered; facilities and accessibility considerations are addressed as part of individual student needs.
- What are the typical school fees or additional costs?
- No tuition fees for public schooling; potential costs include voluntary contributions, uniforms, excursions, and canteen or activity fees.
## 10. Short Pros & Cons list
- Pros
- Close-knit, supportive community with personalised attention
- Strong focus on literacy and numeracy
- Balanced opportunities across academics, sports, arts, and clubs
- Inclusive environment with wellbeing and transition supports
- Flexible to accommodate mid-year transfers (space permitting)
- Cons
- Smaller school size may mean fewer specialized programs or elective options than larger schools
- Extracurricular offerings can vary year-to-year based on staffing and funding
- Transport options are bus-dependent in a rural setting; some families may need to arrange transport
- Some facilities and programs may rely on partnerships and seasonal schedules
If you’d like, I can tailor any section to reflect more recent or locally specific details from Tingha Public School’s current communications.
