History:
St James’ School belongs to the parish of St John the Evangelist, Mitcham, in the eastern suburbs of Melbourne. The school was established in 1970 with classes from Prep to Year 2. The Sisters of St Joseph were in charge, with 82 children and three teachers, including the principal. It is significant that the two schools in the Mitcham parish should be called St John’s and St James', because the two saints were brothers. St James' School now has an enrolment of 300 students, P–6.
The Mass Centre, located in the school building, is the meeting place for a close community, many of whom have been at St James’ for the 30 years of its history. New families are made very welcome in our school and parish.
Description:
St James’ School is situated on a picturesque site at 51 Centre Road, Vermont. The spacious grounds include an oval, large grassed playing areas, attractive gardens, adventure playgrounds, asphalt netball courts and a large quadrangle where assemblies are held. The school buildings are in two separate blocks and include a Mass Centre/multi-purpose area and a modern computerised library. The school has 12 classes with a combination of straight and multi-age groupings. Through a broad curriculum, St James’ School aims to develop the full physical, spiritual, intellectual, social, creative and emotional wellbeing of each child .
Features:
With dedicated staff and supportive parents, St James’ School is a learning community which invites success in a challenging yet friendly environment. We provide an innovative and comprehensive P–6 curriculum in Religious Education and the VELS Learning Domains, with a strong emphasis on literacy and numeracy and specialist programs in performing arts, physical education, library and Italian.
To actively support these curriculum areas, enrichment programs such as inter-school sport, outdoor education camps and a swimming program are provided. A Special Education teacher and a Reading Recovery teacher ensure support of all children with special needs. Computer technology is integrated into all classroom programs, with access to the Internet and an Intranet. A well-resourced library supports learning and teaching across the curriculum. In response to community needs and our commitment to shared learning outcomes, parents are actively involved in school life through the classroom helpers program, working bees, a Parents and Friends Association and an Education Board. We highly value, welcome and encourage an open environment throughout the school. An excellent before and after school care program is available on site.