Ave Maria College

Overview

Ave Maria College Aberfeldie is a Catholic secondary school serving families in the Aberfeldie area and nearby suburbs. The college emphasises faith-based education within a supportive, inclusive community that values academic effort, service, and personal growth.

• School type: Catholic (systemic) secondary school
• School size: Medium
• Atmosphere/culture: Nurturing, inclusive, academically focused with strong community spirit

Academics & Learning

Ave Maria College Aberfeldie focuses on a well-rounded curriculum designed to prepare students for tertiary study and meaningful careers.

• Academic strengths: Strong English, literacy and communication skills; STEM and numeracy foundations; emphasis on leadership and service within learning
• Special programs: VCE pathways with opportunities for accelerated or enhanced study; access to enhanced learning programs and practical electives
• Support for diverse learners: EAL support, targeted learning supports, and pastoral care programs for students with additional needs

Sports & Extracurricular Strengths

A wide range of activities helps students develop talents beyond the classroom.

• Sports offered: Netball, basketball, volleyball, soccer, athletics, swimming, and other school-level fixtures
• Strong teams or achievements: Competitive school teams with participation in regional competitions
• Music, arts, drama: Active music program and drama productions; opportunities to audition for ensembles and ensembles
• Clubs: Robotics, coding, chess, debating, and other interest-based clubs
• Partnerships: Local sports associations and community arts programs; participation in inter-school competitions and festivals

Wellbeing & Pastoral Care

Pastoral care is designed to support students’ emotional, social, and spiritual wellbeing.

• Anti-bullying approach: Clear policies, restorative practices, and a culture of respect and inclusion
• House system: House communities to foster belonging, leadership, and teamwork
• Counsellors / wellbeing officers: Access to school counsellors and wellbeing staff for student support
• Transition support: Orientation programs, buddy systems, and ongoing transition assistance for new students

Facilities

Facilities are designed to support modern learning, collaboration, and performance.

• Sports grounds: On-site sports facilities for training and events
• Libraries: Well-equipped library spaces for study and research
• Science labs: Modern laboratories for biology, chemistry, and physics
• Music/performing arts centers: Dedicated spaces for music rehearsals and drama
• Tech/innovation labs: Computer labs and makerspace for coding and project-based learning
• Cafeteria: On-site canteen offering healthy meal options
• Updated playgrounds: Maintained outdoor spaces for recreation and socialising

School Values & Community Culture

The school aims to cultivate values-centered, responsible young people who contribute to their communities.

• School values / mission: Catholic values of respect, service, integrity, and care for others
• Leadership style: Collaborative and student-inclusive, with opportunities for student voice
• Behaviour expectations: Clear standards of behaviour based on respect and responsibility
• Community reputation: Positive regard from families and local communities for nurturing and academically focused education
• Diversity & inclusion: Commitment to inclusive practices and respect for diverse backgrounds

School Logistics & Daily Operations

Practical information helps families plan around school life.

• School hours: Typical instructional day with start around 8:30am and finish around 3:00–3:30pm
• Before/after school care: Available options through school or approved external providers
• Uniform requirements: School uniform required, with details issued by the college
• Transport: Access via local public transport routes and nearby rail/bus services; school may provide guidance on travel options
• Canteen availability: On-site canteen offering practical lunch options
• Fees: Fees fall in the mid-range for Melbourne Catholic secondary schools; detailed fee schedules provided by the college

Enrolment & Admissions

1. What is the enrolment process and timeline?

• Submit an application within the college’s intake period (typically for Year 7 and other year levels where vacancies exist)
• Provide required documentation (birth, family details, proof of Catholic status if applicable, and any parish or sponsorship information)
• Attend an information session or open day, with interview or family meeting as part of the process
• Offers are issued according to vacancies, priorities, and Catholic Education Office guidelines; accepted offers finalize enrolment

1. Is there a waiting list, and how does it work?

• Waiting lists may apply if demand exceeds vacancies
• Placement often follows priority rules (e.g., sibling connections, parish affiliation, and ties to the local community)
• Families on the waiting list are kept informed about their status and likely timelines

1. Are there any entry requirements, tests, or interviews?

• Interviews or formal discussions with families may be part of the process
• Entry requirements are typically aligned with year level enrolments and Catholic education expectations
• Specific tests are not always required, but assessments may occur to understand learning needs

1. Does the school accept mid-year transfers?

• Mid-year transfers are considered if vacancies exist
• Transfer requests generally require enrolment documentation from the current school and a smooth transition plan
• The college supports a respectful, orderly transition for students joining mid-year

Frequently Asked Questions

• Why Parents Choose This School?

- A values-based Catholic environment with strong academic outcomes, supportive community, and opportunities to develop leadership and service.

• What type of student thrives at this school?

- Motivated learners who value a balanced program of academics, faith, sport, and clubs; students who engage with peers and contribute to the school community.

• What opportunities are available for students to extend their skills (academics, sports, arts)?

- VCE pathways and enhanced courses, sports teams, performing arts productions, robotics and coding clubs, debating, and leadership roles.

• How does the school communicate with parents?

- Regular newsletters, parent portals, email updates, and scheduled information evenings; opportunities to speak with teachers and leadership.

• What is the school's approach to teaching and learning?

- Student-centered, inclusive pedagogy with emphasis on literacy, numeracy, critical thinking, and service learning.

• How does the school support students who need extra academic help?

- Targeted learning supports, EAL assistance, and access to school counsellors or learning support staff.

• What support is available for academic challenges?

- Additional tutoring, differentiated instruction, and ongoing progress monitoring to adapt plans as needed.

• What extracurricular and sports opportunities are available?

- A broad range of sports, music and drama programs, robotics, coding, chess, debating, and other clubs.

• What facilities does the school offer (sports, science, arts)?

- Modern science labs, libraries, performing arts spaces, dedicated tech/innovation labs, and well-maintained sports and recreation facilities.

• What is the school's approach to technology and digital learning?

- Integrated digital learning with access to devices, coding and STEM activities, and safe online practices.

• What transport and accessibility options are available?

- Guidance on local public transport, school-supported travel options, and accessibility considerations for students with additional needs.

• What are the typical school fees or additional costs?

- Fees are in the mid-range for Melbourne Catholic secondary schools; families are provided with a detailed fee schedule.

Short Pros & Cons list

• Pros

- Values-based education in a supportive Catholic community - Balanced focus on academics, wellbeing, and extracurriculars - Broad range of clubs, sports, and performing arts - Modern facilities and a clear focus on student development

• Cons

- Fees may be comparable to other Catholic schools and may require planning for families - Availability of certain year levels may depend on enrolment demand - Transport options depend on family location and public routes