Palmerston District Primary School is a progressive, inquiry-led government school where concept-based learning sits at the core.
NAPLAN 18 points below national year-level averages; the result is a B overall.
Palmerston District Primary School is a progressive, inquiry-led government school where concept-based learning sits at the core. The school has a strongly pastoral character and tight-knit community feel, supported by dedicated English as Additional Language, disability support, and the Defence School Mentor Program. Active lunchtime clubs extend learning beyond the classroom. It suits families wanting a learning-centred approach with genuine pastoral care and strong community connections.
Palmerston District Primary School is also known as PDPS, PDPS Palmerston and Palmerston District PS.
Palmerston District Primary School draws students from the Palmerston District Primary School.
Palmerston District Primary School has an overall SchoolRank score of 52.1/100, rated "Average". This score is calculated from academic results, student growth, wellbeing, programs, and value for money. Academically, the school grades B− (Slightly below average) against other Australian schools. The school's ICSEA (Index of Community Socio-Educational Advantage) is 1077 (78th percentile; the national average is 1,000).
In 2025 NAPLAN testing at Palmerston District Primary School, Year 3 students averaged 395 across the tested NAPLAN domains, below the national average of 407 for that year level, and Year 5 students averaged 465, below the national average of 490 for that year level. National averages are specific to each year level, because NAPLAN scores are scaled so older year levels score higher. A school-wide average can't be compared with a single national figure.
Palmerston District Primary School is a medium-sized government primary school with approximately 640 students. It offers education for years K-6. As a government school, enrolment is generally available to students living within the school's designated catchment zone. Families outside the zone may apply for out-of-area placement subject to availability.
Palmerston District Primary School is a government school, so there are no tuition fees. Families may be asked to contribute to voluntary school fees covering materials, excursions, and activities. The school grades B (Average) for value for money, which weighs academic results against the cost of attendance.
Palmerston District Primary School has a student-to-teacher ratio of 12.7:1. This is below the national average of approximately 14:1, meaning students generally receive more individual attention. Support staff make up 35% of the workforce, providing additional learning assistance and pastoral care. The student attendance rate is 89%, which is good.
Palmerston District Primary School is located in Palmerston, ACT, in a major city. Its ICSEA is 1077 (78th percentile; the national average is 1,000). ICSEA measures the advantage of a school's community, from its parents' education and occupation, not the school's quality. A school with a lower ICSEA and strong academic results may be teaching particularly effectively.