ST THOMAS' PRIMARY SCHOOL PROFILE

St Thomas' Primary School, Claremont, is a Catholic Parish Community School, established in 1909 by the Presentation Sisters. Today, St Thomas' is a vibrant, single stream co-educational primary school catering for the families ofSt Thomas' parish and surrounding areas for students from Kindergarten to Year Six. St Thomas' is also registered to accept full-fee paying International students.

The school is part of a strong and nurturing community. It has an excellent reputation for providing a welcoming, involved and academically diverse environment for its students. The ‘whole child’ is being nurtured at St Thomas’, not only through a Religious Education and strong academic program, but also through extra-curricula programs where all talents are valued.

The school facilities have been maintained and upgraded over the years and thus, the school has an excellent infrastructure. To enhance these facilities, together in 2007, the school and parish purchased a neighbouring house block which has now been redeveloped into playing space for the students.

St Thomas' implements the RAISe (Raising Achievement in Schools) Initiative. RAISe focuses on improving student outcomes in literacy and numeracy for all children. In 2007 during National Literacy and Numeracy Week the school received national recognition for its results in the form of a Commonwealth Government 'Highly Commended' award.

A whole school approach and commitment to collaborative processes for the purposes of school improvement ensures that St Thomas' continues to thrive.

Professional development for staff, which is connected to school priorities, ensures that initiatives and priorities are implemented effectively. Access to a well-resourced library and information technology centre supports both staff and students in curriculum implementation and acquisition. Specialist teachers in Art, LOTE (Italian), Physical Education, Information and Communication Technologies and Music, support the rich and diverse education available to the children. An enrichment programme is available to students requiring remediation and support, together with a programme for those children requiring extension.

The school thrives with the excellent good-will and support of the Parish Priest, School Board and Parents and Friends Association.