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Student Placements

Our classes are carefully formed using the professional judgement of staff to create balanced, supportive learning environments for all students. Academic, social and emotional needs, friendships, behaviour, year levels, gender balance and available resources are all considered.

  1. Class structures are determined by administration based on anticipated enrolments, staffing and available resources.
  2. Parent input regarding a child’s academic, social or individual needs is welcomed. Requests for a particular teacher are not considered as part of the placement process.
  3. Teachers develop class groupings, considering friendships, learning needs, behaviour, social dynamics and other relevant factors.
  4. Administration reviews and confirms all class placements to ensure balanced and appropriate groupings across the school.
  5. Families are advised of their child’s class placement during the final week of Term 4.

Considerable care and professional judgement goes into this process, with the needs of both individual students and the year group as a whole taken into account.

Frequently Asked Questions

We understand that class placement and change can sometimes cause anxiety. At Newton Primary, student wellbeing is a priority, and we work closely with families to support a positive transition. If your child is finding the change difficult, please speak with their classroom teacher so we can work together to build confidence and resilience.

Students known to experience significant anxiety around change may also be supported through additional transition opportunities with their new teacher before the school year begins. This has been a very successful approach in helping students feel comfortable and ready for their new class.

No. If your child is having difficulty with a student in class, please inform the classroom teacher in the first instance, so that the matter can be resolved. Managing relationships is an aspect of the school experience where students learn to function socially with all kinds of people.

No. This is not part of our school’s policy.

You are welcome to discuss any concerns about your child’s placement with their teacher or the Principal. Class changes are rare, as placements are carefully considered and changes can impact the balance of other classes. Our focus is on supporting your child to settle successfully into their allocated class.

Repeating a year level is only considered in exceptional circumstances. It involves a lengthy consultation process with parents/carers, classroom teachers, the school psychologist, the Principal and Student Services to carefully consider the individual needs of the student and determine the most appropriate educational pathway.

Split classes are formed when student numbers do not support a single-year class. In the senior years, multi-age classes can provide positive social and leadership opportunities, supported by educational research. As all classes include a range of abilities, students are not advantaged or disadvantaged by the class structure. Split classes also provide greater flexibility to accommodate enrolment changes without restructuring multiple classes.

Recommended maximum class sizes:

  • Kindergarten – 20 students
  • Pre-Primary – 27 students
  • Years 1-3 – 24 students
  • Years 4-6 – 32 students

It is important to give your child time to settle into their new class and routines. If concerns arise, please speak with the classroom teacher so we can work together to support your child’s adjustment. Positive encouragement, patience and an open mind from both home and school can make a significant difference as children build new relationships and confidence in their new environment.

Please know that our teachers care deeply about their students and work hard to create positive learning environments and smooth transitions. If you have any questions or concerns, please speak with your child’s teacher or contact administration.