Mary MacKillop College - Nundah

Overview

Mary MacKillop College – Nundah is a Catholic, independent secondary college that welcomes students into a faith-centred, academically focused learning community. The school aims to combine strong scholastic standards with values-based education, fostering leadership, service and personal growth in a supportive environment. It is a medium-sized school with class sizes that allow for individual attention and a warm, inclusive culture that values each student’s unique strengths.

• School type: Catholic independent/private
• School size: Medium
• Atmosphere/culture: Nurturing, inclusive, academically driven, faith-based

Academics & Learning

Mary MacKillop College focuses on a well-rounded curriculum that supports both strong academic attainment and personal development.

• Academic strengths: English, mathematics, science, humanities, and languages are emphasised, with a culture that encourages critical thinking, inquiry-based learning, and strong literacy and numeracy foundations.
• Special programs: Gifted and talented pathways, leadership development opportunities, and pathways to senior study for ATAR/Queensland Certificate of Education (QCE) outcomes.
• Support for diverse learners: Dedicated learning support teams for EAL and SEN, targeted intervention programs, and access to counselling and wellbeing staff to assist a range of learning needs.

Sports & Extracurricular Strengths

A strong emphasis on physical education, arts, and clubs complements academic study, with wide opportunities for students aged 10–14 and beyond.

• Sports offered: Rugby union, soccer, netball, basketball, cricket, athletics, swimming, tennis, and AFL options where available.
• Strong teams or achievements: Competitive inter-school teams with regular finals appearances and regional achievements across multiple sports.
• Music, arts, drama programs: Active music ensembles, choirs, drama productions and opportunities to participate in school productions and concerts.
• Clubs: Robotics, chess, coding, debating, Public Speaking and other student-led clubs.
• Partnerships: Collaboration with local community groups and inter-school competitions, including partnerships with local sporting and arts programs to broaden student experiences.

Wellbeing & Pastoral Care

Wellbeing is a top priority, with a holistic approach to student welfare and development.

• Anti-bullying approach: Proactive, policy-driven anti-bullying strategies with clear reporting pathways, restorative practices, and a culture of respect.
• House system: A house-based framework to build belonging, friendly competition, and peer support, including house leadership roles.
• Counsellors / wellbeing officers: Access to dedicated guidance counsellors and wellbeing staff to support mental, emotional and social health.
• Transition support for new students: Comprehensive orientation, buddy programs and pastoral support to help new students adjust smoothly.

Facilities

The college provides modern, well-equipped spaces designed to support a broad curriculum and student life.

• Sports grounds: On-site facilities to support physical education and school sport.
• Libraries: A welcoming learning hub with access to print and digital resources.
• Science labs: Fully equipped laboratories for biology, chemistry, physics and STEM activities.
• Music/performing arts centers: Space for rehearsal, recital, and performance.
• Tech/innovation labs: Modern ICT and STEM spaces for coding, robotics and design projects.
• Cafeteria: On-site dining area offering a range of healthy options.
• Updated playgrounds: Safe, age-appropriate outdoor spaces for breaks and recreation.

School Values & Community Culture

The college aims to cultivate confident, compassionate young people who contribute positively to their communities.

• School values / mission: Faith-based education grounded in Catholic values such as service, integrity, respect, and compassion.
• Leadership style: Servant-leadership with opportunities for student voice, peer mentoring and student-led initiatives.
• Behaviour expectations: Clear codes of conduct emphasising respect, responsibility, and inclusion.
• Community reputation: A supportive, family-like school community with a focus on faith, service and academic growth.
• Diversity & inclusion: Inclusive environment that welcomes students from diverse backgrounds and supports equitable access to learning.

School Logistics & Daily Operations

Practical information to help families plan.

• School hours: Typical school day runs from morning to mid-afternoon with start and finish times aligned to Queensland guidelines; after-school activities may extend the day on certain days.
• Before/after school care: Availability of care options to support working families.
• Uniform requirements: Formal daily uniform with sport uniform for PE and active days; specifics provided by the school.
• Transport: Access to local bus services and train routes; information on recommended travel options and drop-off/pick-up arrangements.
• Canteen availability: On-site canteen offering daily meal and snack options.
• Fees: Fees fall within a mid-to-high range consistent with private Catholic schooling, with information on levies and tuition available from the enrolments team.

Enrolment & Admissions

1. What is the enrolment process and timeline?

• Submit an expression of interest or online application.
• Provide required documents (birth certificate, previous school reports, immunisation records, etc.).
• Participate in an interview/selection process and, where applicable, scholarship assessments.
• Receive an offer if space and eligibility allow.
• Confirm enrolment and complete any necessary administration.
• Attend orientation and receive relevant parent information.

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

• Yes, depending on year group and capacity. The school maintains a waitlist and offers may be made when spaces become available, prioritising policy guidelines and timing.

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

• Catholic identity and family involvement may be part of the process.
• Interviews are common for Year 7 entry and for selective programs; academic or aptitude assessments may be used for advanced pathways or scholarships.

1. Does the school accept mid-year transfers?

• Mid-year transfers can be considered subject to space and placement availability.
• Families should contact the enrolments team early to discuss options, arrange documentation, and coordinate transcripts and immunisation records.

Frequently Ask Questions

• Why Parents Choose This School?
• What type of student thrives at this school?
• What opportunities are available for students to extend their skills (academics, sports, arts)?
• How does the school communicate with parents?
• What is the school’s approach to teaching and learning?
• How does the school support students who need extra academic help?
• What support is available for academic challenges?
• How does the school communicate with parents? (note: repeated)
• What extracurricular and sports opportunities are available?
• What facilities does the school offer (sports, science, arts)?
• What is the school’s approach to technology and digital learning?
• What transport and accessibility options are available?
• What are the typical school fees or additional costs?

Short Pros & Cons list

• Pros

- Catholic, values-based education with a supportive community - Strong academic focus with pathways to senior study - Broad range of extracurriculars, sports, arts and clubs - Good student support systems for wellbeing, EAL and SEN - Modern facilities and dedicated learning spaces

• Cons

- Fees are higher than public schools and may be a consideration for families - Admissions can be competitive; space may be limited in certain year groups - Religious affiliation means some families may prefer a secular environment - After-school commitments and enrolment processes may require time and planning