Thirlmere PS is a P3 primary school with approximately 360 students across 15 classes, K-6. The school is located in a semi-rural setting between Picton and the Southern Highlands. The school has a strong community feel and supports the Thirlmere Steam Festival, Reconciliation Week, Carols in the Park and Anzac marches in Picton and Thirlmere. The school was established in 1888 and retains two heritage buildings, the old residence and original classrooms. The remainder of the school has been redeveloped since 1985 and includes a computer lab, eight interactive whiteboards in classrooms and one connected classroom in the library, a hall and three covered outdoor learning areas. All classrooms are air conditioned. It is an attractive and well maintained school on level ground. The school has a strong reputation in the community for outstanding teaching and learning programs and its committed and experienced staff. The school’s strengths include sporting (Razor Back Carnivals and gala days and knockouts) and performing opportunities (Extravaganzas and Wollondilly Community of Schools Performing Arts Festival). The school has a choir, dance group and band (beginners and experienced). The Parents & Citizen Association is active and supportive through their fundraising efforts. They are always responsive to the requests and needs of staff to support students’ learning. They operate a canteen three days a week, run by volunteers. The school has a community kitchen garden focusing on supplying the canteen with fresh produce, recycling school waste and using tank water. The project has been established by the parent community with the aim of involving all students in 2011. Student learning needs are supported, where appropriate, in Year 1 with a Reading Recovery teacher and across the school with a Learning Support Team and three day a week Support Teacher Learning Assistance. The school has a counsellor for two days a week.