The little school doing big things for our Highland Community
Recently we were lucky enough to take a tour of the charming Burrawang Public School. We loved everything about this little school with a very big heart.
Nathan Vanderwey, the current acting principal, gives off so much pride and enthusiasm for this school that it’s easy to see why any parent would happily drop their kids off here on a weekday morning for a full day of learning.
This school’s size and diversity create an ideal environment for personalised and nurtured learning, while its close-knit community gives support in a truly special way.
Here’s a peek into everyday life at this unique and wonderful Highlands school.
1 :: A Historic Touch in Modern Education
As we pulled up to the school, we noticed the original schoolhouse that sits just across the road and we had to ask Nathan about it.
“Although it’s not part of the school anymore,” Nathan tells us, “It’s actually owned by one of our student’s families. We’re really lucky because when our younger class studies the history of our area they get to go over and visit the building, they love it and we think it’s pretty unique.”
What a wonderful way to bridge the school’s past with current learning outcomes!
2 :: A Village Atmosphere
“While the school is in the modern building now, there is still that village feel. There’s a real tight-knit community here and the school gate at pick-up time is definitely a meeting place for local parents,” says Nathan.
As we walk around the school we can tell, the grounds are spacious, green and well-maintained, the playground is modern and bright and the herb garden is one we’d die for in our own backyard!
“We often use the herbs from the garden for cooking lessons,” says Nathan, “Just recently the teachers brought in olive oil and the students made pesto, it was delicious.”
Mmm, we bet!
3 :: Where learning flourishes
There’s a real sense that this is the kind of school where kids can be kids.
“At Burrawang, our students can flourish, they can grow and because of our small setting we’re able to tap into the potential of each student and support them with their interests and abilities,” Nathan tells us.
And due to the small class sizes, there’s a real tailored and focused attitude towards learning.
“Our classes are small with less than 20 in each,” Nathan adds, “an environment like ours not only encourages greater learning potential but also encourages the students to socialise well and become responsible, kind human beings.”
The wonderful thing about the size of a school like Burrawang is that teachers have the time and the ability to cater to student’s needs and interests.
“Students are met at their point of need here, whether it’s for extension or extra support we’re able to get that one-on-one time to help them. We also have community members who come in and volunteer their time for things like reading, meaning there’s even more support in the classroom.”
4 :: Community is family
Community involvement isn’t just about volunteering; it’s the heartbeat of Burrawang Public School.
“We have a wonderful and active P&C at Burrawang,” Nathan tells us.
“ They focus on things like raising funds for transport to excursions. They’re always on the lookout for programs that the kids will love and keen to support ideas the teachers have.”
The sense of community at Burrawang Public School goes beyond the P&C; it feels like the entire Burrawang community is part of the family.
“We’re like an extended family here. We know our students well, and we also know their parents, aunts, uncles, and even grandparents. Our events like Grandparents Day, Mother’s Day High Teas, Father’s Day BBQs, and Soccer Matches draw full attendance, showing how valued our community is and that our efforts are making a positive impact.”
5 :: Celebrating literacy and arts
Peeking inside the classrooms and listening to Nathan talk we can tell that both literacy and creativity are highly encouraged at the school.
“Our librarian is a real champion of literacy with initiatives like the well-loved book parade and national story time”
Gotta love a good book parade!
“We’re currently working with the Hume Conservatorium of Music to provide music tuition to our classes. We’re also hoping to get after-school music lessons here so that interested students can pursue music further,” Nathan adds.
The teachers encourage artistic creativity in their students as well.
“We have a close partnership with Ngunungulla Regional Art Gallery,” Nathan says, “visiting there at least once a term. Our students’ work has been showcased and earned prizes there too.”
And for the little performers, there’s plenty of opportunity to express themselves.
“We’re organising a talent show at the local Hall of Arts to keep the event community-focused. The kids will play a big part in everything from designing posters and rehearsals to inviting parents to watch their performances.”
6 :: Academic excellence and beyond
From the Maths Olympiad to Premier’s Debating and workshops conducted by the Bell Shakespeare Theatre Company, the school has many programs that nurture academic curiosity and talent.
“We also encourage sporting achievements in our students as well,” says Nathan.
“Our Sports in School grants allow us to access a variety of sporting coaches throughout the year such as tennis, lawn bowls and gymnastics. And for things like athletics, cross-country, and swimming carnivals, we team up with six nearby schools to make it an inter-school event. It’s all about having a blast while building those social and emotional skills”
“We’re so proud of the opportunities we give students here, we encourage their passions and we’re always on the lookout for ways to support them.”
And the proof is in the pudding as Nathan points out, because when the Burrawang little kids go off to become big kids at the local high school, they tend to keep up their awesome achievements.
“When our students transition to high school, they often excel as school captains, receive awards at presentation nights, and some even achieve the title of Dux. We believe this success stems from our nurturing environment, which fosters excellence.”
7 :: Fostering resilient humans
Although academic learning is a cornerstone at Burrawang, there’s also a focus on building up the students to be resilient, kind and compassionate members of society who are skilled at problem-solving.
“We teach something called Learning Dispositions. Our teachers use the learning disposition language and the kids reciprocate. The conversations are rich and robust and the kids are driving their learning here,” Nathan informs.
“We don’t just give students the answers, we want them to have that productive struggle. They learn what disposition they need to show in each situation to become a successful learner. They’re good at articulating what they need whether it be teamwork, grit, resilience or whatever is appropriate.”
“It’s also great for handling small conflicts on the playground. If someone isn’t following the game rules, they can identify the disposition needed to resolve the conflict and move forward in a way that benefits everyone involved.”
We can think of many situations in adult life where the ‘learning dispositions’ would sure come in handy!
And there’s plenty more opportunities for real world learning at Burrawang as well.
“We are working with a local farmer and in Term 4 we are looking to launch the “Cows Create Careers” agricultural program that brings real-world experience into the classroom,” Nathan tells us.
With two calves on-site, students will not only learn to care for and feed these animals but also delve into comprehensive research projects that explore the diverse industries that cow’s impact. From robotics and economic implications to advancements in health and nutrition. This hands-on approach prepares students for a future where agriculture intersects with technology and global markets. So important!
8 :: Parent Testimonials
We not only got to chat with Nathan about how much he loved Burrawang Public School, but we also got to hear from the parents themselves.
Here’s what some had to say:
“Burrawang Public School offers a unique and enriching education experience. We love our small school and amazing community!”
J Marshall
“I can’t sing the praises of this great little school enough. It was recommended to me by a local parent, and we decided to do an out-of-area application – we felt the dedicated focus of the teachers in a small school was right for us. And how right we were. The teachers, parents & students are absolutely stellar in every regard – we felt so welcomed by the school and the Burrawang community at large.”
C Rule
Wow, there you have it!
So, if you’re curious to learn more about this wonderful Highlands school then we recommend listening to what Nathan has to say:
“Come and book a tour, see what we’re all about, and see the learning in action. We love to have parents in to visit and learn more”
There are also open days coming up in August of Term 3 and October of Term 4 where prospective parents and carers can visit, have morning tea, and discover more about this wonderful school. Make sure to register your spot.
To find out more about tours at the school you can get in touch here.
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