St Pius X Primary School 419 Waterdale Road, Heidelberg West, Victoria 3081

"This is a beautiful little hidden gem of a school, where every child is known and cared for. I am sure that my eldest daughter, who has some special learning needs, would have been a ‘problem’ to be solved at a larger, less community focused school. Instead she is genuinely cared for and bespoke opportunities are designed for her to shine all the time. Students make friends across year levels without hesitation, meaning the bigger kids really take on the role of mentoring the littler ones. The kids spend a huge amount of time outdoors between the gardening and bush school programs, so if you’re into ‘sit down and be quiet’ learning, this school is probably not for you! ;) They also have prize winning chickens that the kids take to the Royal Show, which is pretty cool. Sure, there are some ‘small school’ things - no canteen, no giant music department etc… - but if you want your child to be genuinely educated as an individual, go and have a look. We’ve been in both the mainstream and Montessori streams and our children absolutely love going to school every day, which is a particularly big deal for our eldest. Highly recommended by our family. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️"

"Absolutely love our little school, it is seriously high vibration and my daughter loves every minute of being there. The oasis of gardens, chook pen, community gardens, pizza oven, orchard and bush school program are divine. It has such a happy and loving atmosphere and although we are not religious at all, feel like the inclusive and open attitude that pervades the school embraces every family that is part of the school community regardless of background, religion or persuasion. I could go on forever, but special mention to the incredible teaching staff who make it what it is."

"It's our first year at St Pius X and myself and my husband are so happy with everything our son has been doing in Prep. He comes home and can't wait to get back to school the next day. You may see some negative reviews from previous years but we can honestly say that we've had nothing but positive experiences from the get go. The school is small enough that he can't get lost with his learning unlike other bigger schools and all the teachers are so warm and welcoming. Efi on reception is like a caring family member who goes above and beyond for us and the Principal, Barbara Gomez is doing an amazing job at rebuilding the school. You can see her love and passion for education and the students. I suggest you have a walk through with Barbara, you'll see it too."

"When it came time to picking a primary school, St Pius was the first one we visited, and ended up being the last and only one. Principal Barbara Gomez's devotion and passion for her school, staff and students is so unbelievably authentic. She knows every student by name, always has the time to discuss school or student issues, or a general chat. There is a real sense of community and togetherness, even younger siblings who are not old enough to attend are considered, made to feel and participate in this community. The teachers are warm, patient, respected, and take the time to give an update, advice, and/or answer questions. The students are kind and empathetic; the older students look out for and take care of the younger ones; the younger ones look up to the older ones. We have absolutely no doubt that we made the right decision to send our children to this amazing school."

"This tiny little school punches so far above its weight it is unbelievable! As the parent of a child with some individual needs, we have been so impressed with the caring, accommodating and fuss-free approach St Pius has. The small size of the school means that every child is known, cared for and close knit - it is not unusual to see older children mentoring younger ones or tiny Preps feeling confident enough to approach older students for a game. Our daughter has such a range of ways to access her learning, be they via traditional means, the arts, animal care, cooking or service to the local area. This school is a genuine 'community school' in the truest sense of the word and we couldn't be happier with our decision to send our children here. Honestly - if you're not sure, just pop in and ask for Barb (the Principal) - she is ALWAYS up for an enthusiastic yarn about her fabulous school and, if she can, an impromptu tour and cuppa!"