St John the Baptist is a Catholic parish primary school in Ferntree Gully. The students are prepared for reception of the Sacraments of Penance, Eucharist and Confirmation and the program 'To Know, Worship and Love' is used as the teaching resource. It is situated at the foothills of the Dandenong Ranges, 29 km east of Melbourne. The school was originally established by the Presentation Sisters and has been operating for just under 74 years. St John the Baptist enrols over 300 students. The school grounds are set around the parish church. St John's has a multi-purpose hall, computer lab, well-resourced library, music and LOTE programs. The school has three main play areas featuring an oval recently upgraded with synthetic grass, a running track, long jump pit, adventure playground equipment and marked netball and basketball courts. At St John the Baptist we provide a supportive, productive and challenging environment which promotes independence, interdependence and self-motivation. We strive to support the social, emotional, physical, spiritual and academic development of our students by providing an environment which is purposeful, inclusive, positive and meaningful.