Parramatta Marist High School, Westmead
Choosing a school is a big moment. Right up there with choosing a pram, a first pet or agreeing to sign your child up for weekend sport for the next decade.
It’s completely normal to feel overwhelmed, but take a breath. This guide is here to make the process feel lighter, clearer and a lot less daunting, so you can feel confident you’re asking the right questions and find a school that truly fits your child for any grade.
Step 1: Source reputable information
The internet has opinions, lots of them. It can be easy to get lost in the scroll, so start with people you trust. Chat to friends, family and other parents about their experiences. Then jump onto school websites and social media to get a feel for their values, learning style and community. You’ll quickly start to see what feels like a match.
Step 2: Identify your must-haves
Every family is different, so be clear on what matters most to you. Maybe location and travel time are non-negotiable. Maybe affordability, fees and uniforms matter most. You might also be looking for a school that aligns with your family’s values or faith. Don’t forget to ask about eligibility requirements or waiting lists - schools are always happy to help.
Step 3: Look beyond the classroom
The best schools don’t just teach, they nurture. Alongside academic learning, look for schools that support wellbeing, character and confidence. Consider extracurricular activities, how schools approach wellbeing and safety and how schools communicate with families. A strong school culture makes all the difference.
Step 4: Consider your child’s abilities and interests
Your child’s interests, abilities and needs should be at the heart of your decision. Think about how your child learns best and whether they have any additional learning, language or physical needs. Consider their interests too! Whether that’s sport, languages, science, music or the arts and how the school supports these passions.
St Joseph's Primary School, Kingswood.
Step 5: Look long-term
It’s worth imagining your child five or ten years down the track. Does the school offer the opportunities, resources and experienced staff to support their growth over time? Looking at alumni stories, student achievements and the school’s track record can give you insight into the kind of young people the school helps shape.
Step 6: Attend an Open Day or plan a school visit
Nothing beats seeing a school in action, and attending an Open Day is one of the best ways to experience what makes a school unique. Explore learning spaces, meet students, teachers and school leaders and gain a sense of the school’s culture and community. It’s also a valuable chance to ask questions about learning and wellbeing support, co-curricular opportunities and how success is nurtured and celebrated beyond academic results.
Most importantly, trust your instincts. When a school feels right for your child and your family, you’ll know.
Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese (CSPD) offers 80 primary and secondary schools across Western Sydney and the Blue Mountains. With high-quality learning programs, state-of-the-art facilities, a wide range of extracurricular opportunities and a strong focus on wellbeing and belonging, CSPD schools empower every child to thrive and strive for greatness.
Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese
www.parra.catholic.edu.au
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29 Jun 2026
From Facebook
RELIGIOUS LIFE AT HOLY FAMILY PRIMARY EMERTON Over the past few weeks, our students have had wonderful opportunities to put their faith into action and engage with our parish community. A highlight was our annual Vinnies Winter Sleepout Event, which encouraged students to learn more about the challenges faced by people experiencing homelessness and to respond with compassion and generosity. We would like to extend our sincere thanks to all the families who generously donated food. Your support helped make the event a meaningful experience for our students and demonstrated the strength of our Holy Family community. Our Upper Primary students also had the privilege of joining our parish community to celebrate the Feast of the Sacred Heart of Jesus Mass. Students participated reverently in the liturgy, leading the Prayers of the Faithful and contributing to the celebration alongside our parishioners. It was a wonderful opportunity for students to live out their faith, strengthen their connection with the parish, and reflect on the love and compassion of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. We thank our students, staff, families, and parish community for their ongoing support in nurturing faith-filled hearts and a spirit of service.
More News
29 Jun 2026
From Facebook
RELIGIOUS LIFE AT HOLY FAMILY PRIMARY EMERTON Over the past few weeks, our students have had wonderful opportunities to put their faith into action and engage with our parish community. A highlight was our annual Vinnies Winter Sleepout Event, which encouraged students to learn more about the challenges faced by people experiencing homelessness and to respond with compassion and generosity. We would like to extend our sincere thanks to all the families who generously donated food. Your support helped make the event a meaningful experience for our students and demonstrated the strength of our Holy Family community. Our Upper Primary students also had the privilege of joining our parish community to celebrate the Feast of the Sacred Heart of Jesus Mass. Students participated reverently in the liturgy, leading the Prayers of the Faithful and contributing to the celebration alongside our parishioners. It was a wonderful opportunity for students to live out their faith, strengthen their connection with the parish, and reflect on the love and compassion of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. We thank our students, staff, families, and parish community for their ongoing support in nurturing faith-filled hearts and a spirit of service.
04 Jun 2026
What Your Child Really Learns in the First 100 Days of School
One moment your child is holding your hand at the school gate and before you know it, they're walking in confidently, greeting friends by name, carrying their own bag, and coming home full of stories about 'assembly' and 'sport'. Here’s what to expect in their first 100 days of Kindergarten.
15 May 2026
From Facebook
14 May 2026
Music, art, movement: why creativity matters more than you think
Did you know creativity is one of the biggest predictors of how well children do in school and in life?
24 Apr 2026
From Facebook
Yesterday morning, Holy Family Primary Emerton came alive with colour and excitement as families gathered for our Easter Hat Parade. Students proudly displayed their wonderfully creative hats, delighting the crowd and bringing plenty of smiles. The festivities continued with an Easter raffle that added to the fun, along with a special visit from the Easter Bunny, who was a big hit with the children. It was a fantastic morning that brought our school community together in celebration.
02 Apr 2026
From Facebook
02 Apr 2026
From Facebook
Principal’s Morning Tea Term 1 2026 Once a term at Holy Family Primary Emerton we acknowledge the efforts of children who consistently try to be responsible, do the right thing and be the best they can be. These children are invited to a special morning tea with the Principal and are presented with a certificate of appreciation. Congratulations to those students who have been selected in Term 1 to attend the Principal's Morning Tea that took place earlier this week 🤩🎖
02 Apr 2026
From Facebook
We’re enrolling now! At Holy Family Primary School Emerton, every member of our school community matters. We have so much to offer - discover what makes Holy Family a wonderful place to learn and grow. Learn more here: https://info.parra.catholic.edu.au/open-day/hfemerton
02 Apr 2026
From Facebook
24 Mar 2026
700+ Unite for Project Compassion Big Water Walk
More than 700 students and staff from 23 schools across Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese (CSPD) came together for Caritas Australia’s Big Water Walk in support of Project Compassion. Beginning at Parramatta Park, students carried buckets of water along a 4km route, gaining a glimpse of the daily journey faced by people in developing communities, especially women and children, in search of clean water.
10 Mar 2026
From Facebook
NAPLAN season is here, but how much does it really matter? 🤔 Learn what it measures, what it doesn’t and how to support your child with confidence in 2026. Read our guide (1 min read) 👉 https://www.parra.catholic.edu.au/2026-03-NAPLAN-fb
10 Mar 2026
NAPLAN: What Parents Really Need to Know
Each March, families across Australia hear a lot about NAPLAN. The National Assessment Program Literacy and Numeracy (NAPLAN) assesses students in Years 3, 5, 7 and 9 in reading, writing, spelling, grammar and numeracy. But what does it really mean for your child in 2026?
10 Feb 2026
Choosing a School: A Guide for Parents
Choosing a school is a big moment. Right up there with choosing a pram, a first pet or agreeing to sign your child up for weekend sport for the next decade. It’s completely normal to feel overwhelmed, but take a breath. This guide is here to make the process feel lighter, clearer and a lot less daunting, so you can feel confident you’re asking the right questions and find a school that truly fits your child for any grade.