Rural success story with 20 new families enrolled

WHILE many small, rural schools have been forced to close their doors due to dwindling enrolments, Beverford Primary School continues to buck the trend.

The school is a success story within itself, having attracted more than 20 new families in the past few years.

Increasing enrolments and continual growth, particularly within the junior year levels, has been a talking point among industry leaders. In 2023 the school gained state-wide recognition when it was invited to share its success story at the Victorian State Principal Conference.

According to principal Phil Cox, their formula is simple.

“Our strong connection to our community and reputation of excellent student learning and wellbeing has raised interest in the school,” Mr Cox said.

He added that much of their success came down to simplicity – encouraging connectedness, engagement and creating a calm learning environment for all children to thrive.

The school relies on a “traditional approach”, with mornings dedicated to literacy and numeracy.

“We prioritise reading, writing, maths and have an average class size of ten,” Mr Cox said.

Afternoons focus on extensive specialist programs which include Auslan, STEM, music, art and Inquiry.

Mr Cox said the strength of the school’s transition and early year’s program was testament to the school which was producing some “wonderful results” among its students.

There is a bus which commutes from Swan Hill to Vinifera each day, with students also being transported to Swan Hill’s After School Program, which provides additional after school care.

Beverford boasts modern facilities, an inclusive learning environment, and committed staff.

Mr Cox encouraged families to take the time to visit the school and see the classrooms in action so they could get a real feel for the school and what it has to offer.

With a strong intake of Preps already enrolled for next year, Mr Cox said the school would be offering a number of come and try days which will run next month.

The sessions will take place between 9am and 10.30am on Friday, June 14 and 21.

Meanwhile, an afternoon session, from 2-3pm will take place on Tuesday, June 25.