Exciting times for Star of the Sea
It’s an exciting time for Our Lady Star of the Sea.
It’s an exciting time for Our Lady Star of the Sea.
Since its early days, opening with just 18 students in portable classrooms, the new school campus has expanded and the school now has the capacity for up to 180 students.
The stage two extensions finished in the second half of 2021 included four classrooms and a library/discovery centre, as well as landscaping, a purpose-built outdoor kitchen, and a roof over the basketball courts.
A new synthetic oval includes goals for soccer and football, as well as cricket pitch markings and a three laned running track.
A new soft-fall surface has been installed in the school amphitheatre, and a bird hide added to the biodiversity area.
As part of the latest work, the school’s carpark was also upgraded with extra parking spaces, as well as providing a new walkway for students to safely access the pedestrian crossing on the Cowes-Rhyll Road.
The new classrooms and outdoor areas will help the school cater for an influx of new families moving to the area.
A great environment
The spacious and light filled school buildings provide a warm and welcoming environment for students.
There’s a strong focus on each student’s individual strengths.
“We value each of our students,” said Principal Cathy Blackford, stressing the importance of respect in the school’s culture.
“Our staff are compassionate, accepting and not judgemental. I’m very proud of the inclusive community in our school.”
The school offers a stand-alone prep class, and composite classes for Years 1/2, 3/4 and 5/6.
There is also the capacity for students to work outside their standard grade.
The school grounds provide another learning space, with classes incorporating the vegetable garden, orchard and biodiversity area.
“We are teaching the students to value the environment, and that’s why science is a specialist subject for us, and the kids are outside every day.
“The Pope has said we are to be stewards of the earth and we’re teaching them to value our unique environment,” Cathy explained.
Alongside the environmental focus, the school provides the standard Victorian curriculum, as well as science, art, music, drama and digi-tech.
The school’s designated second language is French and it takes a school-wide approach to the subject.
“Instead of just doing one class a week, we learn French together – all the students and staff – for 15 minutes every day,” Cathy explained.
Most importantly, the school provides an accepting and tolerant environment, allowing children to thrive and grow.
“Our school delivers the values of the Gospel – compassion, understanding and to love one another,” Cathy said.
“And it provides a vibrant and inclusive learning space for children, adapted to their needs and abilities.”
Please ring the office and speak to Alison on 5951 1700 if you would like a tour.
