Cardijn College - Galilee

Galilee Campus of Cardijn College in Aldinga is a Catholic, co-educational school focused on partnership with families and parishes to nurture the whole person. The school offers a values-based education with an emphasis on faith, academic growth, and community involvement. Class sizes are moderate, supporting personalized attention, and the atmosphere is welcoming, inclusive, and supportive, helping students feel confident to participate in learning and school life.

As a medium-sized Catholic school, Galilee aims to balance strong academic programs with pastoral care and extra-curricular opportunities. The environment encourages respectful relationships, resilience, service, and teamwork, with a culture that values diversity and fosters leadership among students.

• Academic strengths: English, STEM, leadership development, and language studies are emphasized, with additional attention to literacy and numeracy across year levels.
• Special programs: Gifted and Talented opportunities, accelerated learning where appropriate, and enrichment activities in science, technology, engineering and math.
• Support for diverse learners: Structured EAL/SEN support, inclusive education approaches, and targeted interventions to assist students who need additional help.

• Sports offered: Soccer, netball, basketball, AFL-style programs, cricket, tennis, athletics, and cross-country.
• Strong teams or achievements: Competitive school teams with focus on development, teamwork, and sportsmanship; participation in local and regional competitions.
• Music, arts, drama programs: School choir, band, drama ensembles, and opportunities to perform in community events.
• Clubs: Robotics, chess, coding, debating, environmental/climate clubs, and other student-led groups.
• Partnerships: Collaborations with local sporting clubs and community organizations to provide pathways and competitions.

• Anti-bullying approach: Clear policies, student-led initiatives, and wellbeing programs to promote respect and safety.
• House system: A house structure that fosters belonging, healthy competition, and teamwork across year levels.
• Counsellors / wellbeing officers: Access to school counsellors and wellbeing staff for social, emotional, and academic support.
• Transition support for new students: Orientation programs, buddy systems, and targeted support to help new students settle in quickly.

• Sports grounds: On-site fields and courts suitable for a range of sports and physical education.
• Libraries: Well-stocked libraries with digital resources and study spaces.
• Science labs: Modern laboratories for hands-on experiments and practical science learning.
• Music/performing arts centers: Dedicated spaces for music, drama, and performance activities.
• Tech/innovation labs: Centralized spaces for robotics, coding, and design projects.
• Cafeteria: On-site dining facilities with healthy catering options.
• Updated playgrounds: Safe, modern outdoor play areas and recreation spaces.

• School values / mission: Catholic ethos centered on faith, service, integrity, and inclusivity.
• Leadership style: Collaborative and student-centered leadership with opportunities for student voice through councils and clubs.
• Behaviour expectations: Clear conduct expectations aligned with respect, responsibility, and care for others.
• Community reputation: Recognized for supportive pastoral care, family engagement, and a welcoming school culture.
• Diversity & inclusion: Commitment to inclusive practices and celebrating diverse backgrounds within the school community.

• School hours: Regular school day with start and finish times aligned to the local primary/secondary timetable.
• Before/after school care: Available or coordinated through approved providers; options for wrap-around care.
• Uniform requirements: Standarded school uniform with details provided by the school, including any sports or formal wear as required.
• Transport (train/bus routes): Access to regional bus routes and transport options coordinated with families; information available on the school’s transport page.
• Canteen availability: Canteen or canteen services offering meal options and snacks.
• Fees (low/medium/high ranges): Fees fall within a medium range for the region, with family discount schemes and government concession possibilities where applicable.

1. What is the enrolment process and timeline?

• Submit the initial application with required documentation, followed by any scheduled admissions events. Shortlisted applicants are notified with next steps, including interviews or assessments if applicable. Offers are made in line with availability and the school’s published timelines.

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

• Yes, there can be a waiting list when demand exceeds places. Waitlist positions are typically allocated based on date of application, with priority given to siblings, parish affiliations, and other considerations outlined by the school.

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

• Entry requirements may include an application, proof of immunisation, and a personal interview or short assessment for certain programs. Some years or pathways may require additional information or a brief assessment to determine appropriate placement.

1. Does the school accept mid-year transfers?

• Mid-year transfers are considered subject to space availability and the completion of required documentation, with ensuring alignment of curriculum and student support needs.

• Why Parents Choose This School?

- Our Catholic ethos, supportive community, focus on holistic development, and attention to pastoral care make families feel connected and valued.

• What type of student thrives at this school?

- Students who are curious, collaborative, respectful, and engaged in faith-informed learning, with a willingness to participate in academics and community life.

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

- Enrichment programs in English, STEM, leadership; competitive sports teams; music and drama ensembles; clubs in robotics, coding, debating, and more.

• How does the school communicate with parents?

- Through email newsletters, a parent portal, regular progress updates, and scheduled information evenings; responsive leadership and staff.

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

- Student-centered, inquiry-based learning that integrates faith, values, and real-world applications while supporting diverse learning needs.

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

- Targeted learning support, EAL and SEN provisions, tutoring sessions, and early intervention strategies.

• What support is available for academic challenges?

- Access to learning support staff, flexible grouping, additional practice resources, and ongoing progress monitoring.

• How does the school communicate with parents? (Repeated)

- See above: email, portal, newsletters, and parent information events.

• What extracurricular and sports opportunities are available?

- A broad range of sports (soccer, netball, basketball, AFL, etc.), music and drama programs, robotics, chess, coding, debating, and other clubs.

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

- Comprehensive facilities including sports grounds, libraries, science labs, performing arts spaces, tech/innovation labs, and on-site canteen.

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

- Integrated using digital platforms, with appropriate devices and resources to support learning, research, and collaboration.

• What transport and accessibility options are available?

- Regional bus routes and school-led transport information to assist families with commuting; accessible facilities to support all students.

• What are typical school fees or additional costs?

- Fees are in the medium range for the area, with transparent itemised costs and potential family discounts or concessions where applicable.

Pros

• Strong Catholic faith ethos with a supportive, family-like culture
• Balanced focus on academics, wellbeing, and community
• Broad range of sports, arts, and clubs
• Comprehensive wellbeing and transition support for new students

Cons

• Located in a regional area; travel may be required for some families
• Fees fall in the medium range, which may require planning for some families
• Availability of places can vary by year level and program, potentially affecting mid-year transfers