Here are some of the most commonly asked questions from prospective parents.
We aren’t Catholic – will this be an issue?
We are very proud to be an inclusive community with students and staff from a wide range of backgrounds, including non-Catholic and non-religious backgrounds; what we all share is a commitment to Catholic values. We welcome applications from all families seeking a Catholic education for their children.
Have I left it too late to enrol?
At Our Lady of Good Counsel Forestville, we accept enrolments throughout the year for Kindergarten to Year 6, with limited availability in selected classes.
What curriculum is offered in Catholic schools?
Catholic schools offer the same curriculum as government and independent schools in NSW as determined by NSW Education Standards Authority. Additionally, Religious Education is undertaken as part of every student’s course of study.
Secondary schools offer a broad choice of subjects, including Vocational Education and Training (VET) courses. Subject selection processes are designed to maximise student choice and cater for students’ needs.
Do I need to be in the catchment area?
While being local allows you to fully embrace the community around our school, we are open to accepting enrolment applications outside a traditional catchment area.
What about diverse learners and students with additional needs?
Catholic School Broken Bay school system is proud of its comprehensive and inclusive support of diverse learners, including gifted students and students with a range of other additional needs.
Various specific support services for students with additional needs are available, including:
- Consultation services for class teachers to assist them in the provision of reasonable adjustments for students with additional needs
- Services to students with hearing and vision impairment
- Specific education services to assist schools develop and implement an inclusive model of support for students with disabilities
- Transition planning support for students with disabilities. A variety of support is also offered to cater for students of different abilities, including twice exceptional and gifted and talented students.
Secondary schools also offer a range of extra-curricular activities including debating and public speaking, chess, Duke of Edinburgh Award, mock trial, music, eisteddfods, a wide range of sports and involvement in community action and social justice groups.
What is your approach to bullying?
Catholic Schools Broken Bay expect high standards of student behaviour and appearance. All schools have policies and procedures relating to behaviour management and anti-bullying which are informed by the Catholic Schools Broken Bay’s Pastoral Care and Student Wellbeing Policy.
This policy and associated programs are based firmly on Catholic values and focus on building quality relationships and fostering resilience. School expectations, standards and procedures are outlined within these policies, addressing matters such as school rules, responsibilities, reward systems, support structures, programs and services. Each school is committed to creating a safe and supportive learning community for its students, staff and families.
Couldn’t find what you were looking for? Please let us know if you have any more questions, we are always happy to have a chat and we would love to talk more about how our school can cater for your child.