Welcome to the Arcadia School Website.

School Purpose Statement

Arcadia Public School will provide, in a caring environment, a comprehensive education for all its students, emphasising student welfare, participation and achievements.
It will encourage children to become self-motivated individuals who can work independently and co-operatively.

Click here to view our latest "Working Bee" photographs

School History

Arcadia Public school commenced under the name of Galston Heights Public School on the 13th November,1894,being housed in the Union Hall which stood on the corner of Geelans Road and Arcadia Road. The name changed to Arcadia Public School on 25th October, 1896. The school building and residence were constructed during 1897 and occupied some time during that year.

The second timber building was opened in 1955, the brick building in 1960. Demountables started coming in 1972. The largest number of enrolments was achieved in 1981, reaching 181 children and 7 teachers. Present enrolments are around 120 per year with five full time teachers.

School Badge

The school badge was designed by Mrs Judy Cadman in about 1978. It is in the shape of a shield, displaying the date 1894 and an orange tree to commemorate the main industry of this district when the school first opened.

The school playground had newly planted orange trees to mark this history.

School Houses

The first houses were Baird and Rivett - named after two early headmasters.

In approximately 1975, the school was divided into four houses:

Banksia - green

Boronia - purple

Bottlebrush - red

Wattle - gold

House banners showing wildflowers were made by Mrs Margaret Higson. In 1991 new banners were made and embroidered by Mrs Jan Black.

Arcadia Public School has a long history and the school recently produced a book titled "A Century of Achievement," which gives an excellent insight into the history of our school and our local area.

School Philosophy

Research has shown that parents hope their children will, through their schooling, become self-confident, happy, well-balanced individuals who can think for themselves. They know that a good primary school is where children and adults feel welcomed, encouraged, safe, challenged, included, respected and excited, and where expectations are high. Learning is valued, and there is a strong sense of hope and purpose. We, at Arcadia Public School, have followed these premises for many years and they continue to guide our plans for the future.

The school has a tradition of meeting the needs of individual students through co-operative, regular consultation with parents and caregivers. Students remain the focus of school plans and daily learning activities. A real sense of ownership and responsibility has developed in the school community. Children often plan and organise school activities. Fostering leadership and a sense of self-worth is the aim of all student welfare programs. Senior students carry much responsibility and are respected by their peers and younger students. As a result, students have a strong sense of belonging to a supportive, successful school. They are committed to maintaining the high reputation of the school.