School ProfileMansfield Primary School (MPS) is located in Apollo Street, Mansfield, in the shire of Mansfield. It is a rural township with tourism, hospitality, agriculture, forestry, and government services providing the economic base. Mansfield is the gateway to the high country and snowfield resorts of Mt Buller and Mt Stirling. The School is 245km from Melbourne and 80 km from the Regional Education Office in Benalla. The school is positioned close to the centre of town. It is surrounded by Council facilities (pool, football ground, basketball stadium etc.) that are utilised for our educational endeavours. Mansfield has a vibrant community which MPS is very much part of.
Our school provides a stimulating, welcoming environment with modern school facilities including multipurpose room, student vegetable gardens, outdoor learning areas, large all weather shelter and new buildings. MPS is very proud of the grounds and buildings and plans to continue to improve the educational environments. It is well equipped with a library, art room, science area, maths and teacher’s resource room, music room, canteen and upgraded classrooms. Mansfield PS delivers a comprehensive, challenging and inclusive learning program to all 281 students. Our school develops caring, confident individuals who have skills and positive attitudes to reach their personal potential and be lifelong learners. Our core value of RESPECT is reflected by our three whole school rules – respect for self; respect for others and; respect for property and environment. Expected behaviours are taught explicitly across the school which are highlighted in the school’s positive behaviour matrix. The schools academic program is designed to be relevant and authentic enabling all students to achieve academic success and a love of learning. Peer coaching and observation in literacy, numeracy and positive behaviours along with a rigorous PLT culture ensures staff focus on precise, personalised learning to provide a clear understanding of student’s placement on the learning continuum and strategies to take them to the next level. Intervention in numeracy and literacy is embedded across all class programs with extra support provided by withdrawal programs which target specific learning needs. Emphasis is also given to inquiry learning designed to develop students understanding of environmental sustainability, their place in the community, their personal health and wellbeing and their positive contribution to the global society. The organisation of classes is based, where possible, on a composite structure which encourages and enhances individual achievement and social development. Currently there are 12 classes which are divided into three department planning teams; three specialists cover the areas of Library, Art and Music and; five integration aides are deployed to assist student with a disability. During the snow season MPS operates the Mt Buller annex and employs two contract teachers to teach two classes in the Mt Buller Community Complex. The school has also established an agreement with the Mansfield Pre-school with MPS as Licensee thus maintaining their accounts. Events and strategies which promote interaction between primary and pre-school staff are shared. Mansfield is in the Ranges Network of the Hume Region and is an active member of the High Country Schools Cluster which provides professional support for teaching staff, common agreed future directions of the schools and a range of opportunities for students. Mansfield Primary has a comprehensive, all year round sport and fitness program which includes swimming, athletics, Fitness Friday and snow sports programs. The arts program involves music and visual arts specialists, singing group, student orchestra and instrumental music programs. Instrumental music tuition is offered on school premises on a user pays basis. Information Technology is embedded naturally into all curriculum areas through the use of interactive whiteboards, flip cameras and computers and laptops in all classrooms. The school has a strong camping program. MPS is focused on delivering extra curricula activities to support the curriculum, encourage student leadership and provide real, rich and relevant learning opportunities. Programs that support this focus include; Challenge Program, Junior School Council, School band and Music Masters program, township parades, Student Action Teams, House Captains, Arts displays around town etc. Direct links have been forged with community members through Community Links program, Class companions and Active Citizens Community Service program. Home/ school/ community relationships are very important with parental participation in school activities and programs, including fundraising ventures, school environment maintenance, monthly farmers market, curriculum and classroom support which are greatly valued and makes a positive difference to student outcomes and staff morale. The Mansfield community is very positive and progressive. There are opportunities for involvement in environmental pursuits, the Arts, Music, Drama, Sports, Festivals and Service Clubs which are all reflected in our wonderful community school. |