Good Samaritan Catholic College

## 1. Overview Good Samaritan Catholic College is a Catholic, private secondary school serving families in the Bli Bli area of Queensland. The college operates within the Australian Catholic education system, offering faith-based learning that blends academic rigour with values-based development. The campus supports a medium-to-large student body and fosters an inclusive, supportive atmosphere where students are encouraged to strive for excellence while growing in character. - School type: Catholic/private - School size: Medium–large - Class size: Typically around 22–26 students - Atmosphere/culture: Inclusive, nurturing, academically oriented --- ## 2. Academics & Learning Good Samaritan Catholic College focuses on delivering a well-rounded academic program with opportunities for personal growth and leadership. - Academic strengths: STEM, English, leadership development, and languages - Special programs: Accelerated learning options, gifted and talented programs, VET pathways, and faith-based studies aligned with Catholic education - NAPLAN / trends: Recent years show stable to improving trends in literacy and numeracy with steady progress across key domains - Student-teacher ratios: Approximately 1:14 to 1:18 depending on year level - Support for diverse learners: EAL support, SEN support, teacher aides, and targeted interventions --- ## 3. Sports & Extracurricular Strengths A strong focus on holistic development with a broad range of activities. - Sports offered: Soccer, rugby, cricket, basketball, netball, tennis, swimming, athletics, and more - Strong teams or achievements: Competitive school teams with regional representation and successes across sports - Music, arts, drama programs: Active music ensembles, drama productions, and performing arts opportunities - Clubs: Robotics, chess, coding, debating, and other academic/tech-focused clubs - Partnerships: Local community clubs, regional inter-school competitions, and external coaching partnerships Most parents in Australia with sons aged 10–14 see substantial value in the school’s combination of sport, arts, and academic clubs --- ## 4. Wellbeing & Pastoral Care Prioritising student wellbeing with structured support. - Anti-bullying approach: Proactive programs, clear policies, student mentorship, and safe reporting channels - House system: Yes, with house-based activities and events to foster belonging and healthy competition - Counsellors / wellbeing officers: On-site counsellors and wellbeing staff available for students - Transition support for new students: Orientation programs, buddy systems, and tailored transition support --- ## 5. Facilities Facilities designed to support a comprehensive school experience. - Sports grounds: Multiple sports fields and courts - Libraries: Well-equipped library with study spaces - Science labs: Modern, well-resourced science laboratories - Music/performing arts centers: Music rooms and performing arts spaces - Tech/innovation labs: Computer labs, maker spaces, and robotics facilities - Cafeteria: On-site canteen with healthy options - Updated playgrounds: Modern, safe outdoor spaces for recreation --- ## 6. School Values & Community Culture What kind of students and community the school fosters. - School values / mission: Faith-based learning emphasizing service, integrity, respect, and academic excellence - Leadership style: Student voice is encouraged; collaborative leadership with staff guidance - Behaviour expectations: Clear codes of conduct centered on respect, responsibility, and safety - Community reputation: Positive reputation within the Catholic education community and local families - Diversity & inclusion: Welcomes students from diverse backgrounds; inclusive of different abilities and perspectives --- ## 7. School Logistics & Daily Operations Practical information to help families plan. - School hours: Typical daytime schedule with variations by year level - Before/after school care: OSHC or similar programs available - Uniform requirements: School uniform with an approved uniform shop; guidelines and fees - Transport: Local bus routes and available transport options; parking and drop-off arrangements - Canteen availability: Canteen open at lunch with a range of options - Fees: Fees fall in a medium range for private Catholic secondary education, with details provided at enrolment --- ## 8. Enrolment & Admissions 11. What is the enrolment process and timeline? - Submit an application with required documentation (birth certificate, academic reports, baptism/catholic information where applicable) - Complete any school-specific forms and provide supporting documents - Attend an interview (and possible informal meeting with key staff) - Receive an offer of enrolment if a place is available - Complete acceptance and enrolment paperwork; participate in orientation activities 12. Is there a waiting list, and how does it work? - A waiting list may apply when year levels are full - Priority may be given to siblings, parishioners, or applicants who meet particular criteria - Waiting list position is typically determined by date of application and available places 13. Are there any entry requirements, tests, or interviews? - Applications are generally required, with possible interview - Some year-level intakes may include short assessments or discussion of goals and values - Catholic identity and parish involvement requirements may be part of the process 14. Does the school accept mid-year transfers? - Mid-year transfers may be possible, subject to space and approval - Parents should initiate the process early and provide copies of academic records, report cards, and current enrolment information - Transfer may include an interview and a brief orientation to integrate into the current term --- ## 9. Frequently Asked Questions - Why Parents Choose This School? - A values-based Catholic education with strong academics, supportive staff, and a focus on community and service. - What type of student thrives at this school? - Engaged, curious learners who value collaboration, faith-based development, and a balanced approach to academics, sport, and the arts. - What opportunities are available for students to extend their skills (academics, sports, arts)? - Advanced coursework options, leadership roles, robotics, coding, sports teams, music ensembles, drama productions, and VET pathways. - How does the school communicate with parents? - Regular newsletters, email updates, a parent portal, and scheduled parent-teacher interviews. - What is the school’s approach to teaching and learning? - Student-centered, evidence-based instruction with differentiated support and a commitment to inclusion and Catholic values. - How does the school support students who need extra academic help? - Targeted interventions, learning support staff, tutoring, and tailored plans to meet individual needs. - What support is available for academic challenges? - Access to counsellors, learning support staff, and small-group or one-on-one assistance as needed. - How does the school communicate with parents? - See above: newsletters, parent portal, and regular opportunities to engage with teachers. - What are the class sizes and how much individual attention do students receive? - Class sizes typically around 22–26; additional support can be provided through small-group instruction and targeted tutoring. - What extracurricular and sports opportunities are available? - A broad range of sports (team and individual), 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, music/performing arts spaces, and tech/innovation labs. - What is the school’s approach to technology and digital learning? - Integrated digital learning across the curriculum with appropriate devices, online resources, and safe, supportive use policies. - What transport and accessibility options are available? - Local bus routes and transport options with appropriate accessibility features; parking and drop-off during the school day. - What are the typical school fees or additional costs? - Fees cover tuition and standard fees; additional costs may include uniforms, excursions, and some extra-curricular activities. --- ## 10. Short Pros & Cons list - Pros - Values-based Catholic education - Broad academics with opportunities for advanced and diverse learning - Strong wellbeing and pastoral care - Wide range of sports, arts, and clubs - Supportive community and parent engagement - Cons - As a private Catholic school, tuition is required - Some programs or activities may have additional costs - Availability of places can vary by year level and demand