Most people in the district have done it. You drive past Hillside Public School, take in the look of the place, and think it is a lovely little school, but.
It is that “but” the school would like a word about.
The worry behind it is fair. A small roll sounds like a small world, with less sport, fewer clubs and a thinner chance of getting noticed. Surely the bigger schools have more going on.
Walk the corridors at Hillside and the picture changes. There are swimming, cross country and athletics carnivals, and inter-school and Zone sport for those who want to compete beyond the gate.
There is STEM, coding and robotics, French lessons, dance and music, creative arts, academic competitions and excursions. Children can become School Captains, student representatives, buddies and mentors, lead assemblies, and stand up for Hillside at school and community events.
What makes it work is the size itself. Fewer students means more turns, and the child who might wait on the sidelines elsewhere is often asked to join in here. Teachers know each student by name and by nature. Kids mix across year groups, and older ones look after younger ones. Families know families. When something new comes along, children are nudged forward to be part of it.
So the invitation is simple. Come and see for yourself. Walk through the gates, meet the teachers and explore the grounds at 122 Cattai Ridge Road, Glenorie NSW 2157, or call 02 9652 1459. Big opportunities, as it turns out, fit rather nicely in a small school, and it is a pretty special place to grow up.
