- Overview
Good Samaritan Catholic College is a Catholic, co-educational secondary college within the NSW Catholic education system. It offers a values-driven learning environment that blends faith, academics and community involvement. The college aims to provide a nurturing atmosphere where students can grow academically, socially and spiritually.
- School type: Catholic
- School size: Medium
- Atmosphere/culture: Inclusive, nurturing, faith-based, academically focused
- Academics & Learning
Parents can expect a strong academic program with opportunities to develop leadership and practical skills.
- Academic strengths: English, Mathematics, Science, and STEM-focused initiatives; leadership development; language study options
- Special programs: Accelerated/streamed learning paths, Gifted & Talented opportunities; pathways to the HSC
- Support for diverse learners: EAL support; dedicated Learning Support Team for SEN; targeted interventions and inclusive practices
- Sports & Extracurricular Strengths
Sports and activities are a strong focus, with many chances to compete, perform and grow outside the classroom.
- Sports offered: Football (soccer), basketball, netball, rugby, cricket, athletics, swimming (programs vary by year)
- Strong teams or achievements: Participation in diocesan and inter-school competitions; opportunities to qualify for regional/diocesan teams
- Music, arts, drama programs: School bands, choir, drama productions, and involvement in arts events
- Clubs: Robotics, coding, chess, debating, drama and other interest clubs
- Partnerships: Local clubs and community groups; competitive opportunities through diocesan and inter-school events
- Wellbeing & Pastoral Care
Wellbeing is a core priority, with structures to support students’ emotional and social development.
- Anti-bullying approach: Clear anti-bullying policies with proactive education and restorative practices
- House system: Four houses that promote belonging, competition and community service
- Counsellors / wellbeing officers: On-site counsellors and wellbeing staff to support students and families
- Transition support for new students: Orientation programs, buddy systems, and targeted induction activities
- Facilities
Facilities are designed to be functional and engaging, supporting a wide range of learning experiences.
- Sports grounds: On-site sporting facilities for training and events
- Libraries: Well-resourced library spaces for study and collaboration
- Science labs: Modern science laboratories for practical learning
- Music/performing arts centers: Dedicated spaces for music, drama and performances
- Tech/innovation labs: Computing and technology spaces for coding and digital projects
- Cafeteria: On-site canteen with healthy meal options
- Updated playgrounds: Access to safe outdoor spaces and recreation areas
- School Values & Community Culture
The school fosters a values-led community with active student and staff involvement.
- School values / mission: Respect, Responsibility, Compassion, Service (embedded in daily life and decisions)
- Leadership style: Collaborative leadership with student voice opportunities and staff mentoring
- Behaviour expectations: Clear codes of conduct and consistent, supportive discipline
- Community reputation: Positive relationships with parish, families and local community
- Diversity & inclusion: Commitment to welcoming students from diverse backgrounds and abilities
- School Logistics & Daily Operations
Practical details to help families plan around school life.
- School hours: Typical day from morning start to afternoon finish (exact times published by the college)
- Before/after school care: Available options or arrangements may be offered through the school or local community providers
- Uniform requirements: Full school uniform with sports uniform for physical activities
- Transport (train/bus routes): Public transport access with school-specific information available for families; bus and rail options often nearby
- Canteen availability: On-site canteen offering healthy options
- Fees (low/medium/high ranges): Fees are in the medium range for NSW Catholic systemic schools; detailed fee schedules are provided by the school upon enquiry
- Enrolment & Admissions
- What is the enrolment process and timeline?
- Submit an expression of interest/application online
- Provide required documents (birth certificate, proof of address, immunisation records, parish details where applicable)
- Attend information session and/or interview
- Complete any required assessments or documentation
- Receive offer, and confirm enrolment by the specified deadline
- Is there a waiting list, and how does it work?
- Yes, there can be a waiting list. Priorities often include siblings, parish affiliations, and distance; timing and availability depend on enrolment numbers and space
- Are there any entry requirements, tests, or interviews?
- Typically an interview is part of the process; may require references, parish details, and documentation. Testing is not always required, but may be used to inform support needs (e.g., EAL or SEN) if applicable
- Does the school accept mid-year transfers?
- Mid-year transfers are possible subject to space, meeting documentation requirements, and alignment with class availability
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Why Parents Choose This School?
Families often cite the strong Catholic values, holistic support, welcoming community and solid academic program as key reasons for choosing Good Samaritan Catholic College.
- What type of student thrives at this school?
Students who value a faith-based community, supportive pastoral care, and a balanced focus on academics, sport and arts tend to thrive here.
- What opportunities are available for students to extend their skills (academics, sports, arts)?
Extended opportunities exist across STEM, English, humanities, leadership programs, high-performance sport, music, theatre and various clubs (robotics, coding, debating, chess).
- How does the school communicate with parents?
Regular communications via newsletters, portal updates, parent-teacher conferences, and informal channels through school activities and events.
- What is the school’s approach to teaching and learning?
A mix of classroom instruction, collaborative learning, and targeted support; emphasis on critical thinking, problem solving and character development.
- How does the school support students who need extra academic help?
Dedicated Learning Support Team, EAL support, targeted interventions, and differentiated instruction to meet diverse learning needs.
- What support is available for academic challenges?
Access to tutors, study groups, mentoring and early intervention strategies; ongoing communication with families about progress.
- How does the school communicate with parents? (Repeated)
See above: newsletters, portals, conferences, and events.
- What extracurricular and sports opportunities are available?
A broad range across sports, music, drama and clubs (robotics, coding, chess, debating) with opportunities to compete in diocesan and inter-school events.
- What facilities does the school offer (sports, science, arts)?
Sports grounds, libraries, science labs, music/performing arts spaces, technology/innovation labs, on-site canteen, and updated outdoor spaces.
- What is the school’s approach to technology and digital learning?
Integration of digital tools and coding opportunities; dedicated tech/innovation labs; support for responsible and safe use of technology.
- What transport and accessibility options are available?
Access to local transport options (bus/train routes) and information on accessibility and drop-off arrangements; details are provided by the school.
- What are the typical school fees or additional costs?
Fees are in the medium range for NSW Catholic schools; additional costs may apply for excursions, electives, uniforms and extra-curricular activities.
- Short Pros & Cons list
Pros
- Strong Catholic identity and values in daily school life
- Supportive pastoral care and student wellbeing
- Solid academic program with pathways to the HSC
- Broad range of sports, arts and clubs
- Inclusive environment with focus on diverse learners
Cons
- Fees apply (as with many non-government options)
- Large school environment may feel less personalised at times
- Uniforms and extra-curricular costs can add up
- Availability of mid-year transfers depends on space
- Transport options depend on local routes and may require planning
If you’d like, I can tailor these details further with exact numbers, official program names, and current enrolment timelines from the school.