About the school
Botany Public School is a vibrant community school located in the heart of Sydney. Established in 1848, it holds the distinction of being the first public school in Sydney and one of the oldest in New South Wales. The school currently caters to 235 students, including a diverse population with 48% from language backgrounds other than English and a small number identifying as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander.
Environment and Facilities
The school is set within expansive natural surroundings, providing a nurturing environment that supports student growth and success. Botany Public School boasts extensive grounds featuring multiple sports facilities, shaded outdoor learning areas, and a Yarning Circle, which enrich its educational experience. The school's commitment to environmental stewardship is reflected in student involvement through the Gardening Club, where they maintain gardens and care for resident chickens.
Curriculum and Learning
Botany Public School offers a broad and engaging curriculum, supported by specialist teachers in visual arts, technology, music, dance, and gymnastics. The school places a strong emphasis on student wellbeing through social and emotional learning programs and restorative practices. This commitment ensures that every student feels known, supported, and inspired to thrive.
Students are empowered to become active 21st-century citizens, equipped with the knowledge and skills to meet future challenges. Small class sizes foster positive relationships among students and teachers, providing an ideal environment for learning. Enrichment programs, along with sporting, creative arts, and leadership opportunities, further encourage students to explore their interests and develop new skills.
Community and Inclusivity
The school prides itself on its strong partnerships with families and the community, fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment. The committed Parent and Citizens Association plays a vital role in supporting the school through fundraising and community events, further enhancing the supportive atmosphere at Botany Public School.
Mission
Empowering every learner to thrive. A community school in the heart of Sydney, supported by a strong community and enriched by wide-open natural spaces, the school provides a nurturing environment that fosters student growth and success.
Location & Catchment Area
- Botany Public School
Nearby or Connected Schools
- A John Brotchie Nursery School 146 m
- B Banksmeadow Public School 1.6 km
- C Mascot Public School 1.6 km
- D Pagewood Public School 1.8 km
- E J J Cahill Memorial High School 1.9 km
- F Eastlakes Public School 2.4 km
- G Gardeners Road Public School 2.5 km
- H Kyeemagh Public School 3.1 km
- I Daceyville Public School 3.4 km
- J Matraville Public School 3.4 km
- K South Sydney High School 3.7 km
- L St Peters Public School 3.7 km
Profile (2025)
- Total enrolments
- 232 (117 girls, 115 boys)
- Enrolments (FTE) What does this mean?
- 232
- ICSEA What does this mean?
- 1062 (percentile 73)
- SEA quarters What does this mean?
- 15% / 26% / 32% / 27%
- FOEI What does this mean?
- 52
- Indigenous students
- 3%
- LBOTE What does this mean?
- 33%
- Teaching staff (FTE) What does this mean?
- 13.3
- Non-teaching staff (FTE) What does this mean?
- 2.4
Enrolments by grade (2025)
| Grade | Headcount |
|---|---|
| Kindergarten | 27 |
| Year 1 | 29 |
| Year 2 | 30 |
| Year 3 | 31 |
| Year 4 | 40 |
| Year 5 | 43 |
| Year 6 | 32 |
| Total | 232 |
Year by year
Attendance data for 2020 is unavailable — NSW schools were disrupted by COVID-19 and the Department of Education did not publish figures for that year.
| Year | Enrolments | Girls | Boys | Attendance % | ICSEA | Teaching staff (FTE) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 | 232 | 117 | 115 | - | 1062 | 13.3 |
| 2024 | 244 | 122 | 122 | 92.5 | 1069 | 14.4 |
| 2023 | 270 | 126 | 144 | 92.5 | 1060 | 15.5 |
| 2022 | 273 | 132 | 141 | 88.9 | 1062 | 15.4 |
| 2021 | 286 | 129 | 157 | 93.8 | 1058 | 16.2 |
| 2020 | 286 | 135 | 151 | - | 1061 | 16 |
| 2019 | 289 | 137 | 152 | 93.6 | 1060 | 16 |
| 2018 | 283 | 143 | 140 | 94.4 | 1045 | 16 |
| 2017 | 274 | 137 | 137 | 94.1 | 1056 | 16.7 |
| 2016 | 266 | 132 | 134 | 94.5 | 1053 | 15.4 |
| 2015 | 258 | 124 | 134 | 94.7 | 1059 | 15.3 |
| 2014 | 244 | 116 | 128 | 94.4 | 1045 | 13.8 |
| 2013 | 257 | 127 | 130 | 94.1 | 1048 | 15.2 |
| 2012 | 196 | 98 | 98 | 95.3 | 1041 | 11.1 |
| 2011 | 183 | 82 | 101 | 96.2 | 1039 | 10.8 |
| 2010 | 181 | 83 | 98 | - | 1027 | 11.3 |
| 2009 | 198 | 87 | 111 | - | 999 | 10.8 |
| 2008 | 179 | 78 | 101 | - | 999 | 10.8 |
Attendance data for 2020 is unavailable — NSW schools were disrupted by COVID-19 and the Department of Education did not publish figures for that year.