John Palmer Public School

John Palmer Public School is a vibrant school located in the north western Sydney suburb of The Ponds. Set within spacious, landscaped grounds and offering modern facilities, our school has a well-deserved reputation within the community for the quality of innovative and dynamic learning programs offered which are designed to meet the individual needs of all students. Enthusiastic and highly qualified staff work together with the community to provide a nurturing environment where students are encouraged to aspire beyond what they thought possible through integrity, excellence and innovation. We do this by building character, resilience and a growth mindset as a school community; supporting all students and teachers to strive for excellence in all that they do; and learning individually and collectively, skills that will prepare us for the future. Current programs include a focus on Literacy and Numeracy, using feedback to extend learning, engaging with the community, and developing critical thinking skills. The school has the latest technology, with internet accessible computers and electronic display panels in every room, sets of notebooks and iPads for class use and equipment to support coding and robotics programs. A variety of extra-curricular activities, including dance, choir, public speaking and debating, SRC, external competitions and challenges provide opportunities for students to develop an extensive range of interests and skills. Our school is part of the Live Life Well @ School program and all students are encouraged and supported to make wise choices in regard to healthy eating and exercise. We are part of the Ridges PSSA group and achieve a high level of success in our sporting endeavours. We are also well represented at PSSA carnivals, with students competing in events up to state and national levels. An Early Intervention support class operates as part of the school, providing young students with special needs a rich and inclusive learning environment in the year prior to attending school. Our school is a member of The Ponds Learning Community and works closely with neighbouring schools to provide excellent professional learning opportunities for teachers as well as innovative programs for students and parents. We are supported by an active P&C and an involved community. Before and after school care is available. From an initial enrolment of 44 students in 2008, our population has increased to over 920 students in 2019. Student background is diverse, with approximately 56% of students coming from homes where a language other than English is regularly spoken.