Situated adjacent to a state forest, Patricks Road was established in 1977 to cater to the increasing population of the Brisbane suburbs of Ferny Hills and Ferny Grove and the growing area of Pine Rivers Shire. Over the years Patricks Road has developed an enviable reputation as a school which values its community and has high expectations of student achievement and conduct. Our motto of Caring and Sharing indicates our commitment to the whole child as part of a supportive community. Our curriculum is based upon the belief that all children have achieved much in their lives, and we work together to ensure their education is not only soundly based but exciting and futures oriented.

Enrolment has kept pace with the growth in local population, and currently sits at 700 students from Prep to Year 7. Twenty-eight classroom teachers are supplemented by specialist Music, Physical Education, German and Indonesian Teachers to deliver a varied and successful learning program for all students. An emphasis is put on Literacy and Numeracy as the basic building blocks for learning. Science, Study of Society and the Environment, and the Arts are all included in a broad education which is focussed on assisting individual students to reach their potential.

 

Students are able to participate in a broad range of performing arts activities including the Year 7 Musical, Instrumental Music Program and choirs. Interschool Sport and a daily ‘Smart Moves’ Program, combined with an awareness of a healthy diet through ‘Smart Choices’ ensures our students grow in understanding of a healthy lifestyle.

Students with a range of learning disabilities or difficulties are a welcome part of our school, and we have a range of specialist learning support, guidance and therapy services available. This, along with our understanding of behaviour as a part of growth and development, provides for an equitable and understanding approach to social growth of students.

 

Supplementing our curriculum is the teaching of Philosophy, providing an ethical base for students and staff to interact. Students learn to respect the opinions of others, whilst at the same time developing skills of reasoning and logical thinking. Philosophy is one way of us developing common purpose and shared values based upon mutual respect and regard.

 

Computers are located in all classrooms, the library and in a dedicated computer lab. This provides access for all students to spreadsheets and word processing, the internet for research, and email for communication. Keeping pace with developments in technology is important if our students are to be part of the information revolution. We are continually examining trends and developing ways to enhance student learning through the use of technology.

 

Patricks Road, a community school that is looking to the future, providing challenge, but with a sense of shared enjoyment of learning. It is a school that welcomes all who wish to prosper grow and become responsible future citizens.

 

Rod Mason

Principal