Dear Families,
At South Street Primary School, our vision is to provide excellence in education to achieve personal growth and academic success. This vision extends beyond the classroom. We want our students to discover their strengths, develop confidence and access opportunities that encourage them to aim high.
It is therefore with great excitement that we officially announce the launch of the inaugural South Street Basketball Academy, commencing in 2027.
Developed in partnership with Stadium34 Basketball, Gippsland’s premier basketball facility, the Academy will provide South Street students with regular access to specialist coaching from Stadium 34’s accredited coaches.
Through this partnership, Stadium34’s established basketball development programs will be brought directly into our school, giving students access to the same coaching approach—from foundational skills and confidence-building through to advanced technique, game understanding and competitive development—during the school day, free of charge.
This is more than a sporting program. It reflects the high aspirations we hold for every South Street student and our commitment to creating opportunities that may not otherwise be readily accessible within our community. We want our students to see what is possible, challenge themselves and develop the skills and personal qualities that will support them at school and beyond.
The Academy Pathway
The South Street Basketball Academy will provide a clear pathway that grows with our students:
Grade 2 – Universal Fundamentals Program
Every Grade 2 student will participate in sessions throughout Term 4.
Weekly sessions will be delivered at school and will introduce students to the fundamentals of basketball in an enjoyable and supportive environment.
The focus will be on building skills, confidence and an interest in the game.
Grade 3/4 – Development Program
Interested and selected students will participate in fortnightly sessions throughout the year.
The program will focus on skill development, teamwork and game play, with visits to Stadium 34 each term providing students with the opportunity to train in a specialist basketball environment.
Grade 5/6 – Aspirational Program
Interested and selected students will access an advanced development program focused on higher-level skills, competitive game play and leadership.
Students will participate in specialist experiences at Stadium34, with opportunities for additional elements such as the Shooting Bays and targeted small-group coaching.
This tier is designed to support students who may wish to pursue club basketball, competitive pathways and continued involvement beyond primary school.
Free and Accessible for Students
The South Street Basketball Academy will be offered free of charge, removing cost as a barrier and ensuring students can access high-quality specialist coaching and facilities.
Students selected for the South Street Basketball Academy will also receive an exclusive Academy training top and basketball at no cost. These will help build a strong sense of identity, pride and belonging among our inaugural Academy students while ensuring they have the equipment needed to participate fully.
The Grade 2 program will be available to all students in that year level. Places within the Grade 3/4 and Grade 5/6 programs will be limited, with students selected through an Expression of Interest and Academy selection process.
Students do not need to be experienced basketball players to express their interest. Potential, enthusiasm, commitment and coachability will all be important parts of the selection process.
Open to Current and Future South Street Students
As members of the South Street school community, current families have priority access to submit an Expression of Interest before applications open to prospective students and the wider community.
Expressions of Interest close on 26th October, 2026. Academy selection will then take place, with successful students and families expected to be notified by 2nd November, 2026.
Submitting an Expression of Interest does not guarantee selection or a place in the Academy.
We are incredibly proud to bring this opportunity to our school community. Our partnership with Stadium34 represents another important step in South Street’s continued growth and our determination to provide outstanding experiences for our students.
The South Street Basketball Academy is ready. We cannot wait to see our students take the court, aim high and show what they can achieve.
Yours sincerely,
Brendan Dawson
Principal