Mother Teresa Catholic College

## 1. Overview Mother Teresa Catholic College Baldivis is a Catholic, co-educational day school serving families in the Baldivis region. The college typically operates as a medium-sized school, aiming to balance personal attention with broad opportunities across a range of year levels. The atmosphere is oriented toward a nurturing, inclusive, faith-informed learning environment that emphasises academic effort, community values, and student well-being. As a Catholic college, the school weaves faith, service, and scholarship into daily learning. It seeks to create a welcoming culture where students feel supported to grow academically, socially, and morally, with strong connections between home, parish, and school. ⭿ ## 2. Academics & Learning - Academic strengths: Literacy and numeracy foundations are emphasised, with opportunities to develop strength in STEM subjects, English, and leadership skills. Languages and humanities may be offered as part of a well-rounded curriculum. - Special programs: Gifted and Talented or extension opportunities may be available, alongside faith-based religious education and service learning integral to the school’s Catholic identity. - NAPLAN trends: Public data and school reports typically show a focus on improving literacy and numeracy across year levels; trends suggest steady progress in key areas over recent years. - Student-teacher ratios: Class sizes are generally described as medium, with student-teacher ratios commonly in the range of about 1:12 to 1:20 depending on year level and activity. - Support for diverse learners: EAL (English as an Additional Language) support and inclusive education for students with SEN (Special Educational Needs) are commonly provided, with access to learning support staff and targeted interventions. ⭿ ## 3. Sports & Extracurricular Strengths - Sports offered: A range of team sports typical for WA Catholic schools, such as basketball, football (soccer), netball, cricket, athletics, and possibly Australian rules football, with opportunities to participate in school, district, and regional competitions. - Strong teams or achievements: Schools at this size often maintain competitive interschool programs with successful teams across different sports and age groups. - Music, arts, drama programs: Active music, performing arts, and drama offerings are commonly integrated, including choirs, ensembles, and school productions. - Clubs: Robotics, chess, coding, debating, and other STEM or academic clubs are typically available to students seeking enrichment beyond core classes. - Partnerships: The college may engage with local community groups, sports academies, music programs, and regional competitions to broaden opportunities outside the classroom. ⭿ ## 4. Wellbeing & Pastoral Care - Anti-bullying approach: A proactive, whole-school approach to safety and respectful behaviour is standard, with clear policies and student support structures. - House system: A house or pastoral group system is often used to promote community, teamwork, and healthy competition among students. - Counsellors / wellbeing officers: Access to school counsellors or wellbeing staff to support emotional health, study stress, and transition periods. - Transition support for new students: Orientation activities, buddy programs, and targeted support help new students settle in and build connections. ⭿ ## 5. Facilities - Sports grounds: Onsite playing fields or courts suitable for a range of sports and physical education. - Libraries: A dedicated library space for study, research, and reading activities. - Science labs: Separate spaces for practical science work and experiments. - Music/performing arts centers: Areas for music classes, ensembles, and performances. - Tech/innovation labs: Rooms equipped for technology, coding, and digital projects. - Cafeteria: On-site canteen or dining facilities for students. - Updated playgrounds: Play and recreation spaces designed for different age groups. ⭿ ## 6. School Values & Community Culture - School values / mission: A faith-based mission focused on Catholic values such as respect, compassion, integrity, and service to others. - Leadership style: Likely a collaborative, service-oriented leadership approach that involves students, staff, and families. - Behaviour expectations: Clear behaviour policies aligned with positive conduct, respect for others, and responsible citizenship. - Community reputation: A family-friendly, faith-centered community with emphasis on inclusion and mutual support. - Diversity & inclusion: Commitment to welcoming students from diverse backgrounds and promoting inclusive practices. ⭿ ## 7. School Logistics & Daily Operations - School hours: Typically a morning-to-afternoon schedule with variation by year level; schools usually run around the standard school day with scheduled breaks. - Before/after school care: Often available or offered through a partner provider or the school’s OSHC program. - Uniform requirements: A school uniform is standard, with details on items and dress codes provided by the school. - Transport (train/bus routes): Bus services and public transport options commonly available in the Baldivis area; specifics depend on year level and route. - Canteen availability: Canteen or lunch facilities generally available on certain days or for lunch service. - Fees (low/medium/high ranges): Fees for Catholic independent schools typically fall in a medium range for the WA sector; payment plans and financial assistance may be offered. ⭿ ## 8. Enrolment & Admissions 11. What is the enrolment process and timeline? - Submit an expression of interest or application. - Provide required documents (birth certificate/passport, immunisation records, custody/second-parent documents if applicable, etc.). - Complete any school-specific assessments or interviews. - Attend an information or orientation session if offered. - Receive an offer and finalize enrolment with required deposits or fees. - Timeline varies by year level and space availability; permanent placements are generally offered ahead of the start of the school year. 12. Is there a waiting list, and how does it work? - There may be a waiting list when demand exceeds available places, especially for certain year levels. - Priority may be given to siblings or parish/local community considerations, with positions assigned by the school based on policy and space. 13. Are there any entry requirements, tests, or interviews? - Entry often involves a discussion or interview with the family and student. - Some year levels may require brief literacy/numeracy checks or a review of academic records. - Immunisation and other health documentation are typically required; Catholic schools may request baptism or faith-related information as part of identity and community integration. 14. Does the school accept mid-year transfers? - Mid-year transfers are possible if spaces are available and the student’s prior records, transcripts, and immunisation are provided. - The process usually includes an enrolment application, transfer of records, and a short transition plan. ⭿ ## 9. 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? - What are the class sizes and how much individual attention do students receive? - 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? ⭿ ## 10. Short Pros & Cons list - Pros: - Catholic, values-based education with a focus on character and service - Medium class sizes and supportive learning environments - Broad range of academic, arts, and sports opportunities - Inclusive practices and support for diverse learners - Active wellbeing and pastoral care structures - Cons: - Fees associated with non-government Catholic schooling - Availability of places may vary by year level and intake periods - Specific programs and facilities can evolve; check current offerings with the school for the latest details