Maitland East Public School

East Maitland Public School has a long history of providing education in East Maitland for over 160 years, and is held in high regard by the local community.  The school is situated in the Maitland City Council area in the suburb of East Maitland.  East Maitland Public School has an enrolment of approximately 540 students across 23 classes.  Three of these classes make up our multi-categorical support class unit, catering for 20 studens with a range of special education needs.  East Maitland Public School has an enthusiastic staff made up of experienced and early career teachers.  A major focus for teachers is collaboration, collegiality, and teamwork with the ultimate goal for students, teachers and East Maitland Public School being continuous improvement.  Teachers work together to foster a quality learning environment that reflects our school values of Respect, Responsibility and Learning.  An increasing diversity of students and families coming from a range of cultural and socio-economic backgrounds, with Aboriginal students accounting for 9% of our enrolment, help shape our proudly diverse school community where equality, inclusion and respect are key.  In keeping with these values, we also have a large number of students in our mainstream classes with a range of individual needs, who are supported by an exceptional Learning and Support Team.  Our school facilities include:  a connected classroom; computer lab; a well-resourced library; large playground areas with play equipment; a garden club with egg-laying chickens and active veggie gardens; an orchard; a mutli-purpose hall; and several covered outdoor learning areas.  Our school environment has recently been improved through gardening projects and the inclusion of an Aboriginal bush tucker garden and yarning circle.  Our students have the opportunity to engage in a variety of extra-curricular activities, with specific programs for sport, debating and public speaking, and environmental initiatives.  The school band is well-developed and students also enjoy opportunities to be involved in choir, dance and ukulele.  Our school community is encouraged to participate in all school activities and contribute to planning and activities through membership of our P&C.