## 1. Overview
Ulverstone Secondary College is a public secondary school serving students in Ulverstone and the surrounding Tasmanian communities. It offers a broad, student-centred curriculum for Years 7–12, with a focus on creating a safe, inclusive environment where students can grow academically, socially and personally. The school aims to balance strong academic preparation with practical pathways and supportive wellbeing.
- School type: Public
- School size: Medium
- Class size: Varies by year level, generally in the mid-range for Tasmanian public secondary schools
- Atmosphere/culture: Inclusive, supportive, and focused on wellbeing and achievement
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## 2. Academics & Learning
Ulverstone Secondary College provides a broad academic program designed to support literacy, numeracy, science, and the humanities, with opportunities to explore leadership and language studies. The college emphasizes a well-rounded education and prepares students for post-school pathways, including further study or Vocational Education and Training (VET) options.
- Academic strengths: Broad curriculum with emphasis on English and mathematics, science and STEM opportunities, and pathways into leadership roles and language studies
- Special programs: Senior secondary programs, vocational education and training (VET) pathways, and opportunities for individualised learning plans
- NAPLAN / trends: Public data generally shows stable to positive trends in literacy and numeracy over recent years; specific school trends are published by the Department of Education
- Student-teacher ratios: Class sizes vary by year level; typical ratios align with Tasmanian public secondary school ranges
- Support for diverse learners: EAL and SEN support available, with access to learning support staff and targeted assistance as needed
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## 3. Sports & Extracurricular Strengths
Extracurricular activity is a strong focus for many students, with a range of sports, arts and clubs to suit interests and talents. The college supports competitive teams and broad student participation.
- Sports offered: Common secondary school sports (e.g., football/soccer, basketball, netball, cricket, athletics) and school-based inter-school competitions
- Strong teams or achievements: Active participation in inter-school events and regional competitions
- Music, arts, drama programs: Regular music ensembles, drama productions and performing arts opportunities
- Clubs: Robotics, chess, coding, debating, and other interest-based clubs
- Partnerships: Local clubs, community sports programs and inter-school competitions that provide additional pathways and networks
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## 4. Wellbeing & Pastoral Care
Wellbeing is a central focus, with structures in place to support students’ personal and social development.
- Anti-bullying approach: Clear policies and proactive programs to foster respectful behaviour and a safe school environment
- House system: House grouping used to promote belonging, teamwork and pastoral support (where applicable)
- Counsellors / wellbeing officers: On-site counsellors and wellbeing staff to support students
- Transition support for new students: Orientation activities, buddy systems and targeted transition assistance
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## 5. Facilities
The college provides facilities to support learning, recreation and the arts, with spaces designed to be engaging and functional.
- Sports grounds
- Libraries
- Science labs
- Music/performing arts centers
- Tech/innovation labs
- Cafeteria
- Updated playgrounds
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## 6. School Values & Community Culture
The school aims to cultivate responsible, respectful and engaged learners within a supportive community.
- School values / mission: Focus on respect, resilience, responsibility and inclusion
- Leadership style: Collaborative, with opportunities for student voice and leadership
- Behaviour expectations: Clear codes of conduct and consistent expectations across year levels
- Community reputation: Known for a welcoming, inclusive culture and a commitment to student growth
- Diversity & inclusion: Active emphasis on diversity and supporting students from varied backgrounds
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## 7. School Logistics & Daily Operations
Practical details help families plan around school life.
- School hours: Typical day runs during standard school hours (e.g., start around 8:30 am, finish mid to late afternoon)
- Before/after school care: Availability varies; check with the school for specific arrangements or partnerships
- Uniform requirements: School uniform is required; details on items and acceptable variations provided by the college
- Transport: Bus routes and public transport options serving the school; information on timetables advised by transport providers
- Canteen availability: On-site canteen or food outlets supporting students
- Fees: Department-funded public school; minimal voluntary activity costs may apply for certain programs or trips
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## 8. Enrolment & Admissions
Enrolment steps are designed to be clear and family-friendly, with consideration for timelines and space.
11. What is the enrolment process and timeline?
- Submit an enrolment application during the annual intake period; timelines vary by year and space availability
- Provide required documentation (birth details, proof of address, immunisation status as applicable)
- Notification of acceptance or waitlist status follows the school and Department of Education timelines
12. Is there a waiting list, and how does it work?
- Some year levels may have a waiting list if demand exceeds places; placement depends on space and criteria set by the school
13. Are there any entry requirements, tests, or interviews?
- Entry requirements typically include year level placement and documentation; interviews or information sessions may occur for some applicants or programs
14. Does the school accept mid-year transfers?
- Mid-year transfers are considered where there is available space; approval processes depend on current enrolments and year level needs
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## 9. Frequently Asked Questions
- Why Parents Choose This School?
- A welcoming, inclusive environment with a broad curriculum, strong wellbeing support and opportunities for a range of pathways.
- What type of student thrives at this school?
- Students who engage with a balanced program, value wellbeing and belonging, and seek pathways in academics, trades or arts.
- What opportunities are available for students to extend their skills (academics, sports, arts)?
- Academic extension through core subjects, VET pathways, leadership opportunities, sports teams, music and performing arts programs, and clubs like robotics, coding and debating.
- How does the school communicate with parents?
- Regular updates through newsletters, parent portals, meetings and school events; direct contact with teachers and student services as needed.
- What is the school’s approach to teaching and learning?
- A student-centred approach combining core curriculum with practical and broad learning experiences; emphasis on literacy, numeracy and skills for life.
- How does the school support students who need extra academic help?
- Targeted tutoring, learning support plans, access to learning support staff and accommodation of diverse learning needs.
- What support is available for academic challenges?
- Access to counsellors, learning support staff and structured intervention programs to help students catch up and stay engaged.
- How does the school communicate with parents?
- See above; in addition, annual reports and parent-teacher interviews are typically offered.
- What are the class sizes and how much individual attention do students receive?
- Class sizes vary by year level; individual attention is supported through teacher availability, learning support and targeted interventions.
- What extracurricular and sports opportunities are available?
- A range of sports, arts and clubs (robotics, chess, coding, debating) with opportunities to participate in inter-school events and community programs.
- What facilities does the school offer (sports, science, arts)?
- Sports grounds, libraries, science labs, music/performing arts facilities, tech/innovation labs, a cafeteria and playgrounds.
- What is the school’s approach to technology and digital learning?
- Integration of digital tools and resources to support learning, with access to devices and online learning platforms as part of the curriculum.
- What transport and accessibility options are available?
- School bus routes and public transport options; accessibility considerations are addressed in line with Department policies.
- What are the typical school fees or additional costs?
- As a public school, tuition is not charged; optional costs may apply for materials, activities or trips.
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## 10. Short Pros & Cons list
- Pros
- Public, community-focused environment with a broad curriculum and wellbeing support
- Range of pathways including academic, VET and arts
- Active sport, music, arts and club offerings
- Support for diverse learners and transition programs
- Cons
- Class sizes and resource levels can vary by year and demand
- Some programs (e.g., highly specialised courses) may require travel or external partnerships
- Intermediate information (up-to-date enrolment timelines, current facilities) should be confirmed with the school
If you’d like, I can tailor these sections further with more precise, current details from the school or the Tasmanian Department of Education.
