Overview
Holy Cross College Ellenbrook is a Catholic co-educational secondary school serving students in the Ellenbrook area. The college offers a values-based education with a focus on community, service and personal growth.
The school is medium-sized, with class sizes typically in the low-to-mid 20s depending on year level. The atmosphere is nurturing and inclusive, balancing academic aims with pastoral care and opportunities to contribute to the school community.
Academics & Learning
- Academic strengths: English and STEM subjects are supported by dedicated teaching staff, with opportunities to develop leadership and language skills through school programs.
- Special programs: Leadership development, pathways to academic enhancement, and vocational education options. The college supports accelerated learning and offers a range of curriculum choices to suit different student goals.
- Support for diverse learners: Strong support for diverse learners including EAL and SEN services, with learning support staff and targeted accommodations to help students succeed.
- Sports offered: A range of team and individual sports typical to WA Catholic schools, with competitive teams in local/regional competitions.
- Strong teams or achievements: Regular participation and success in regional events; emphasis on teamwork, sportsmanship and personal bests.
- Music, arts, drama programs: Active music ensembles, drama productions and performing arts opportunities to showcase student talent.
- Clubs: Robotics, chess, coding, debating, and other student-led clubs support inquiry, problem-solving and communication.
- Partnerships: Local partnerships with community clubs and competitions to broaden exposure to sport, robotics and creative arts.
Wellbeing & Pastoral Care
- Anti-bullying approach: Whole-school policies and programs designed to promote respect, safety and positive relationships.
- House system: House-based activities and competitions to foster belonging and social connection.
- Counsellors / wellbeing officers: Access to school counsellors and wellbeing staff to support mental health, resilience and transition needs.
- Transition support for new students: Orientation programs, buddy systems and targeted induction to help new students settle in.
Facilities
- Sports grounds
- Libraries
- Science labs
- Music/performing arts centres
- Tech/innovation labs
- Cafeteria
- Updated playgrounds
- School values / mission: Values-based education grounded in Catholic ethos, aimed at developing compassionate, responsible young people.
- Leadership style: Collaborative and student-centered, with opportunities for student voice in clubs, prefect roles and community projects.
- Behaviour expectations: Clear codes of conduct emphasizing respect, responsibility and integrity.
- Community reputation: Strong sense of community, with active involvement from families and local parish partnerships.
- Diversity & inclusion: Commitment to inclusive practices and celebrating diversity within the school community.
School Logistics & Daily Operations
- School hours: Typical school day runs from morning to afternoon with structured timetables.
- Before/after school care: On-site or partner-provided options commonly available for families needing extended care.
- Uniform requirements: Formal uniform with specified colors and items; clear dress standards maintained by the school.
- Transport (bus routes): Local bus routes and public transport accessibility to support commuting students.
- Canteen availability: Canteen or canteen services providing lunch and snack options.
- Fees (low/medium/high ranges): Fees align with regional Catholic education norms; there are standard levies, with additional costs for uniforms and certain electives or activities.
Enrolment & Admissions
- What is the enrolment process and timeline?
- Applications are submitted through the school’s enrolment process. After initial submission, documentation is reviewed, and families are informed of next steps, including any interviews or information sessions. Offers are issued based on space availability and the school’s enrolment timeline.
- Is there a waiting list, and how does it work?
- Yes, there can be a waiting list when demand exceeds places. Waiting lists are typically managed in order of the date of application and priority considerations set by the school. Families are contacted if a place becomes available.
- Are there any entry requirements, tests, or interviews?
- Entry generally involves confirming Catholic identity where applicable and completing the school’s intake process. An interview or information session may be part of the process, but there is typically no formal entrance exam.
- Does the school accept mid-year transfers?
- Mid-year transfers are considered subject to space and alignment with enrolment policies. Families seeking mid-year transfers should contact the registrar to discuss availability and required documentation.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Why Parents Choose This School?
- A values-based Catholic education with strong pastoral care, supportive teachers and a welcoming community that fosters both academic development and character growth.
- What type of student thrives at this school?
- Students who value a balanced approach to academics, faith, sport and service; those who respond to a collaborative, inclusive culture and well-supported learning.
- What opportunities are available for students to extend their skills (academics, sports, arts)?
- Opportunities across English, STEM, leadership programs, VET pathways, music and drama, sports teams, robotics, coding, debating and other clubs.
- How does the school communicate with parents?
- Regular updates via a school portal and newsletters, emails, parent-teacher meetings and reminders for events and activities.
- What is the school’s approach to teaching and learning?
- A student-centered approach with a focus on literacy and numeracy, integrated technology, inquiry-based learning and differentiated support.
- How does the school support students who need extra academic help?
- Targeted learning support, access to counsellors or wellbeing staff, small group assistance and tailored accommodations where needed.
- What support is available for academic challenges?
- Additional tutoring, learning support staff, and pathways to keep students engaged and progressing.
- How does the school communicate with parents?
- See above; ongoing transparency through portals, updates and parent-teacher interactions.
- What extracurricular and sports opportunities are available?
- A range of sports, music, drama, robotics, coding, debating and other clubs; competitive teams and community events.
- What facilities does the school offer (sports, science, arts)?
- Sports grounds, libraries, science labs, music/performing arts facilities, tech/innovation labs, canteen and updated playgrounds.
- What is the school’s approach to technology and digital learning?
- Integrated technology in lessons with access to digital resources and devices; emphasis on digital literacy and safe online practices.
- What transport and accessibility options are available?
- Local bus routes and public transport options; accessible facilities and convenient drop-off/pick-up arrangements.
- What are the typical school fees or additional costs?
- Fees align with regional Catholic education norms; expect costs for uniforms, electives, excursions and some extra-curricular activities.
Short Pros & Cons list
- Values-based Catholic education with strong pastoral care
- Inclusive, supportive learning environment
- Broad range of academics, sports, arts and clubs
- Active student leadership and community involvement
- Modern facilities and well-equipped classrooms
- Fees and uniform costs are a consideration for families
- Availability of some elective subjects can vary by year level or demand
