Kareela Public School

Situated in the southern suburbs of Sydney, in beautiful bushland amid sandstone outcrops, Kareela Public School enjoys a high reputation in the Sutherland area for its outstanding academic achievements, the very wide range of extra-curricular activities offered to the students and the teaching expertise of a most talented, dedicated, caring and highly motivated staff. The ethos of the school is encapsulated in its mission statement, 'Promoting Excellence and Lifelong Learning', and the school motto of 'Knowledge, Pride, Success'. School priorities include the development of personal excellence in all pursuits including academic, technology, the arts, sport and the environment. Our focus on the school's seven values of doing your best, respect, kindness, responsibility, cooperation, honesty and fairness is demonstrated in the students' code of behaviour 'Learn all you can; Show you care; Be safe and sensible; Honest and fair'. Effective student wellbeing programs address the needs of all students and include an active Learning Support Team, student leadership programs, a Student Representative Council (SRC), an environment team, a Buddy System and Transition to School program for new students, a Friendship Tree in the playground, homework assistance and various intensive support groups. One third of students enrolled at the school are from non-English speaking backgrounds (NESB), and these students are assisted in classes by an English second language (ESL) teacher. NESB students are cluster grouped in classes for optimal success. Specialised programs include ability groups in mathematics in the senior years, a whole school public speaking program, enrichment programs in band, dance, music, science, technology, languages and art, involvement in the Tournament of Minds and various competitions, whole school morning fitness programs, inter-school sports competitions and a variety of leisure sports. An innovative senior program of individualised learning fosters organisational skills, independence and life skills, and provides a scaffold to transition into high school. Parents assist the school through representation on various committees, involvement in the P&C and fundraising activities, the canteen, clothing pool, bookclub, in classrooms, at sports and on excursions. Before and After School Care (BASC) operates on site each morning and afternoon and is accessed by many families. Communication between the school and the community is a high priority and creates a mutual understanding of the school's vision. The school community supports and values the opportunities offered to the students and works together with the staff to ensure a safe and happy learning environment where all students can reach their highest potential.