Nazareth Catholic College

Overview

Nazareth Catholic College Findon is a Catholic, systemic secondary school serving families in Adelaide’s western suburbs. It offers a medium-sized learning community with a focus on faith-based values, academic achievement, and inclusive culture. Class sizes typically sit in the low-to-mid 20s, enabling personalised attention while fostering collaboration. The atmosphere is nurturing and supportive, emphasising community, service, and student wellbeing within a faith-informed environment.

The school aims to balance strong academics with opportunities in sport, arts and community engagement, creating a holistic setting where students can grow as individuals and collaborators.

Academics & Learning

• Academic strengths: Strengths commonly highlighted include English and literacy, STEM disciplines, leadership development, and language programs.
• Special programs: Pathways for SACE, opportunities for extension/gifted and talented programs, and vocational education and training (VET) options to support different learning goals.
• Support for diverse learners: Dedicated support for EAL learners and students with additional learning needs, plus an inclusion/learning support team and targeted intervention where required.

Sports & Extracurricular Strengths

• Sports offered: Football (soccer), Australian Rules football, basketball, netball, cricket, tennis, swimming, athletics, and other school-based activities.
• Strong teams or achievements: Active interschool participation with competitive teams across local leagues and tournaments.
• Music, arts, drama programs: Robust music ensembles, opportunities in drama and performing arts, and regular performance opportunities.
• Clubs: Robotics, chess, coding, debating, and other interest-based clubs.
• Partnerships: Connections with local clubs, community programs, and regional competitions to broaden opportunities beyond the classroom.

Wellbeing & Pastoral Care

• Anti-bullying approach: Clear anti-bullying policies with preventative programs, student education, and reporting pathways.
• House system: House structures to encourage leadership, teamwork, and a sense of belonging.
• Counsellors / wellbeing officers: Access to wellbeing staff and guidance counsellors to support mental health, resilience, and personal development.
• Transition support for new students: Orientation programs, buddy systems, and targeted transition assistance to help new students settle in.

Facilities

• Sports grounds: Onsite sports facilities suitable for a range of activities.
• Libraries: Modern library spaces with study areas and resources.
• Science labs: Well-equipped laboratories for practical science learning.
• Music/performing arts centers: Facilities that support music ensembles, drama, and performances.
• Tech/innovation labs: Makerspace or technology labs to support coding, robotics, and digital projects.
• Cafeteria: Onsite canteen offering a range of meals and snacks.
• Updated playgrounds: Well-maintained outdoor spaces for recreation and informal learning.

School Values & Community Culture

• School values / mission: A faith-informed mission focused on service, integrity, respect, and excellence.
• Leadership style: Emphasis on student voice, leadership opportunities (e.g., house leaders, student council), and collaborative decision-making.
• Behaviour expectations: Clear codes of conduct, with restorative approaches to discipline.
• Community reputation: Positive perception within the local Catholic and wider school community, with emphasis on inclusion and family engagement.
• Diversity & inclusion: Commitment to a welcoming environment for students from diverse backgrounds, with supports for inclusion and equity.

School Logistics & Daily Operations

• School hours: Typical school day starts in the morning and finishes in the afternoon, with structured timetables and assemblies.
• Before/after school care: Availability of OSHC or affiliated care options through partner providers; check campus details for exact arrangements.
• Uniform requirements: School uniform policy, with specified attire and approved vendors.
• Transport (train/bus routes): Local bus services and proven transport options serving Findon and surrounding suburbs; families should verify current routes and timetables.
• Canteen availability: On-site canteen or lunch provisions with options for considered meal choices.
• Fees (low/medium/high ranges): Fees are in the moderate range for Catholic systemic schools, with additional costs for excursions, materials, and uniforms.

Enrolment & Admissions

What is the enrolment process and timeline?

• Initial inquiry and information session.
• Submission of completed application form with required documentation.
• Possible shortlisting and interview for student and family.
• Presentation of offer and acceptance within set timelines.
• Confirmation of enrolment and orientation details prior to commencement.

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

• If the year level is full, a waiting list may operate.
• Priorities often include siblings of current students, parish/vocesan considerations, and availability of places.
• Admissions staff can provide expected timelines and guidance on maintaining an application.

Are there any entry requirements, tests, or interviews?

• Entry may involve an interview with the student and family.
• Some year levels may include placement discussions or informal assessments to understand learning needs.
• Documentation related to faith background and required school records may be requested as part of the process.

Does the school accept mid-year transfers?

• Mid-year transfers may be possible subject to space and placement considerations.
• Families should contact Admissions to discuss availability, required documentation, and transition planning.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Why Parents Choose This School?

- A faith-based community with strong pastoral care, balanced academics, sport, and arts; supportive environment for personal growth and values-based education.

• What type of student thrives at this school?

- Students who value community, service, academic effort, and participation in clubs, sport, and the arts.

• What opportunities are available for students to extend their skills (academics, sports, arts)?

- Extension programs and leadership roles in academics; regional or school-level sports; music and drama ensembles; clubs in robotics, coding, debating, and more.

• How does the school communicate with parents?

- Regular emails, newsletters, parent portals, and scheduled parent-teacher meetings; notices through classroom and school-wide channels.

• What is the school’s approach to teaching and learning?

- Student-centered, differentiated instruction with opportunities for inquiry, project work, and the use of technology to enhance learning.

• How does the school support students who need extra academic help?

- Learning support teams, targeted tutoring, EAL and SEN services, and collaboration with families to plan interventions.

• What support is available for academic challenges?

- Access to tutors, mentors, and tailored action plans to help students improve in targeted areas.

• What extracurricular and sports opportunities are available?

- A broad range of sports, music and drama programs, and clubs such as robotics, chess, coding, and debating.

• What facilities does the school offer (sports, science, arts)?

- Sports facilities, libraries, science labs, performing arts spaces, tech/innovation labs, and a canteen.

• What is the school’s approach to technology and digital learning?

- Integration of digital tools and platforms, potential one-to-one devices, and emphasis on digital literacy and cyber safety.

• What transport and accessibility options are available?

- Local bus routes and other transport options; accessibility features and parking arrangements may vary by campus.

• What are the typical school fees or additional costs?

- Fees fall in a moderate range for Catholic systemic schools, with additional costs for excursions, uniforms, and certain activities.

Short Pros & Cons list

• Pros

- Catholic, values-based education with strong wellbeing and pastoral care. - Balanced focus on academics, sport, arts, and community involvement. - Support for diverse learners and inclusive environment. - Range of extracurriculars and clubs to develop skills beyond the classroom. - Moderate fees with transparent operations and clear communication channels.

• Cons

- As a mid-sized Catholic school, some specialist programs may be more limited compared with larger institutions. - Transport routes may depend on local services; families should confirm current options. - Mid-year transfers depend on space availability and may require flexible planning.