About Us - Our School History
Hamilton (Gray Street) Primary school is located 300 kilometers from Melbourne in central Hamilton. Since it was established in 1852, the school has maintained a strong tradition of excellence in education. The motto “Semper Sursum” – Ever upwards always our best- reflects its rich heritage and describes its commitment to innovation in education.
The school’s enrolment for 2019 is 275. The students are arranged in 1 straight grade prep, 3 and 6 as well as multi aged grades in 1/2 and 4/5. .
Our key curriculum focus is aimed at developing competence and confidence in literacy and numeracy. The school offers a comprehensive curriculum program in English, Mathematics, The Arts, AUSLAN, Science, Technology, Health and Physical Education and Humanities based on Vic Curriculum.
We place great emphasis on providing a caring and supportive environment for students, staff and parents by:
- Encouraging students to reach their individual potential by recognising and rewarding achievement and effort
- Providing opportunities for students to develop qualities and life skills such as responsibility, independence, communication, inquiry, problem solving and creativity
- Excellence in teaching and learning
- Extensive learning opportunities and resources in a safe environment
- Strong relationships based on respect, equality and dignity
- A strong connection and partnership between school and home
A major building program in 2010 has seen the completion of a new flexible learning area which comprises of two new classrooms, three fully self contained learning pods, a spacious fully carpeted flexible learning area and a new sick bay. The major building work includes the building of new toilets for the students and staff and a new canteen. The combination of the beautiful heritage architecture with the new contemporary spaces has enhanced the quality of the physical learning and teaching environment at Gray St.
The school proudly offers a range of extension programs including the Arts, Sports and Music. The established choirs have a successful history of Eisteddfod achievement and work actively in the community showcasing the school.
The school is rich in modern resources to support the teaching and learning program.
There is a strong tradition of student involvement in the decision making of the school through an active Student Voice, School Captains and House Captains. Students organise Social Service activities as charity fundraising.
Parents are active within the school community and contribute to the development of the school and the progress of students. Parents and volunteers participate in the life of the school in a variety of ways including:
- membership of the School Council and its committees
- assisting in the classroom
- joining staff on camps and excursions
- assisting with other programs
Gray St encourages the development of positive interpersonal relationships between students, teachers and parents. The school actively promotes and recognises the value of parent participation in all aspects of the school.
Our school community works closely together to prepare our students to be responsible, competent and contributing citizens who are confident, caring, active and environmentally and culturally aware.