About Us

About Us

Forbes Primary School has proudly served the South Plympton community since Tuesday, 12 February 1952, when it first opened as a primary school. A separate Infant School (Junior Primary) was established shortly after and officially opened on 23 February 1958. During the peak of the post-war baby boom, Forbes became the largest school in Australia, with over 1800 students enrolled across the two campuses.

The Primary and Junior Primary schools operated independently until 1990, when plans to unify the site began. In January 1995, the schools formally amalgamated, and a new Principal and Deputy Principal were appointed to lead the combined school. In 2024, Jackie Norris was appointed Principal, tenured until 2029.

Today, Forbes is home to approximately 235 students, including two Department for Education Special Options classes, and is recognised for its strong community spirit, inclusive practices, and commitment to educational excellence.

 

High Expectations for Learning

At Forbes Primary School, we set high expectations for every learner. Our school motto, “Never less than your best,” reflects our belief that all students can succeed when supported by high-quality teaching, strong routines, and positive relationships.

We prioritise literacy, numeracy, and critical thinking across all year levels, and support student success through structured interventions, values-based learning, and a strong focus on student voice, independence, and self-regulation.

 

Our Facilities

Located on spacious grounds near Adelaide’s CBD, Forbes offers modern and dynamic learning environments, including:

  • Two purpose-built STEM suites for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics

  • A refurbished library that serves as a central hub for reading and inquiry

  • A dedicated digital technologies suite with 2D/3D studios and on-site technician support

  • Outdoor volleyball and basketball courts and a modernised sports hall

 

What Makes Us Unique

Our diverse school community represents over 34 nationalities, and we actively celebrate inclusion through our programs and daily practices. Our values—Respect, Responsibility, Honesty, Optimism, and Understanding—guide every aspect of school life.

We offer:

  • Specialist subjects in Indonesian, Performing Arts, Physical Education, and Science

  • A whole-school Values Program embedded across the curriculum

  • Our unique Calm Down Cave and school-wide interoception strategies to support emotional wellbeing

  • An active after-school sports program (basketball, soccer, cricket, volleyball, and seasonal sports) run by parent volunteers and coordinated by our PE teacher

  • Opportunities for student leadership and community partnerships, including visits to local kindergartens

  • Participation in SAPSASA events, the SA Primary Schools Music Festival and after school sports programs

At Forbes Primary School, every child is known, supported, and inspired to be their best. We are proud of our heritage and committed to preparing students for a successful future, guided by our motto:
“Never less than your best.”