## Overview
Prendiville Catholic College is a Catholic co-educational secondary school in Ocean Reef, Western Australia. As a Catholic schooling option within the WA CEWA system, it supports faith-informed education alongside broad academic and pastoral programs. The college serves a large student body with a focus on creating a welcoming, inclusive community where students are encouraged to grow academically, spiritually and socially.
- School type: Catholic
- School size: Large
- Class size: Medium (typical class groups in the mid-20s)
- Atmosphere/culture: Nurturing, inclusive, faith-based
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## Academics & Learning
- Academic strengths: English and literacy, mathematics and numeracy, sciences, and a strong emphasis on critical thinking and STEM-integrated learning. Opportunities for leadership development are incorporated into the school culture.
- Special programs: ATAR pathways complemented by Vocational Education & Training (VET) options; leadership programs and service-learning initiatives.
- NAPLAN / trends: Recent years show stable performance with improvements in literacy and numeracy trends, alongside ongoing curriculum enrichment to support diverse learners.
- Student-teacher ratios: Class sizes in the mid-20s with teaching teams designed to support individual attention and student progress.
- Support for diverse learners: Programs for EAL/D students, strong support structures for students with SEN, and targeted intervention options to assist varied learning needs.
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## Sports & Extracurricular Strengths
- Sports offered: Soccer, basketball, netball, athletics, cricket, and other team and individual sports through inter-school competitions.
- Strong teams or achievements: Active participation in inter-school sport with competitive programs and regular involvement in regional and state competitions.
- Music, arts, drama: Robust music program, theatre and drama opportunities, and performance ensembles.
- Clubs: Robotics, chess, coding, debating, and other subject/clubs that foster cross-curricular interest and skill development.
- Partnerships: Connections with local sports clubs and regional inter-school competitions to broaden opportunities outside the classroom.
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## Wellbeing & Pastoral Care
- Anti-bullying approach: Proactive anti-bullying policies and a culture of respect, safety, and inclusion.
- House system: House-based pastoral framework to support belonging, leadership, and friendly competition.
- Counsellors / wellbeing officers: Access to school-based wellbeing staff and counselling services to support students’ emotional and social needs.
- Transition support for new students: Orientation programs, buddy systems, and transition planning to help new students settle in smoothly.
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## Facilities
- Sports grounds: On-site sports facilities and field spaces supporting PE and physical activities.
- Libraries: Well-equipped library with study spaces and resources.
- Science labs: Modern science laboratories supporting practical learning.
- Music/performing arts centers: Dedicated spaces for music, drama, and performance.
- Tech/innovation labs: ICT and technology-enabled spaces for coding, robotics, and digital projects.
- Cafeteria: On-site canteen and dining facilities.
- Updated playgrounds: Modern outdoor play and recreation areas to support breaks and activity.
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## School Values & Community Culture
- School values / mission: Catholic ethos emphasizing faith, service, respect, integrity, and community engagement.
- Leadership style: Collaborative and inclusive, with student voice and leadership opportunities through house and student senate structures.
- Behaviour expectations: Clear expectations around respect, responsibility, resilience, and safety.
- Community reputation: Known for a supportive, faith-centered culture with a focus on student wellbeing and holistic development.
- Diversity & inclusion: Commitment to embracing diverse backgrounds and ensuring inclusive opportunities for all students.
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## School Logistics & Daily Operations
- School hours: Typically a morning start with a full-day timetable (exact times available on enquiry).
- Before/after school care: Support options commonly available through on-site or partner providers; check current arrangements.
- Uniform requirements: Formal school uniform required, with designated sport uniform for physical activity days.
- Transport: Bus services and public transport options accessible to many students; check school notices for route details.
- Canteen availability: On-site canteen or coffee/food facilities providing lunch and break options.
- Fees: Fees fall in a mid-to-high range for WA Catholic secondary schools, with expected levies for uniforms, activities, excursions, and camps.
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## Enrolment & Admissions
- What is the enrolment process and timeline? Typically involves submitting an application, attending information sessions/open days, and coordinating with the school for a timeline that aligns with the WA school year. Intake is generally aligned with year levels, with early applications encouraged.
- Is there a waiting list, and how does it work? Waiting lists can occur when applications exceed available places. Applications are usually prioritised by year level, date of application, and any CEWA guidelines.
- Are there any entry requirements, tests, or interviews? Entry may include school assessments, parent/guardian information, and a brief interview or discussion to understand student needs and fit with the school community.
- Does the school accept mid-year transfers? Mid-year transfers are sometimes possible if spaces are available; eligibility and process depend on current enrolments and space in the desired year level.
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## Frequently Asked Questions
- Why Parents Choose This School?
- A faith-centered learning environment, supportive pastoral care, strong academics, and opportunities to participate in a wide range of sports, arts, and clubs.
- What type of student thrives at this school?
- Students who are engaged, motivated, collaborative, and value community and service, while pursuing strong academic and co-curricular opportunities.
- What opportunities are available for students to extend their skills (academics, sports, arts)?
- ATAR pathways and VET options, leadership programs, science/tech clubs (robotics, coding), music and drama ensembles, sports teams, debating, and other clubs.
- How does the school communicate with parents?
- Through newsletters, emails, parent portals or apps, and regular updates from teachers and leadership staff.
- What is the school’s approach to teaching and learning?
- Student-centered learning with differentiation, integration of technology, and alignment to the WA curriculum within a Catholic context.
- How does the school support students who need extra academic help?
- Learning support teams, targeted interventions, tutoring, and access to SEN support and EAL/D assistance where needed.
- What support is available for academic challenges?
- Early intervention through teachers and support staff, small-group work, and ongoing monitoring of progress to tailor support.
- What are the class sizes and how much individual attention do students receive?
- Class sizes are typically in the mid-20s, with teachers able to provide targeted support and differentiation within lessons.
- What extracurricular and sports opportunities are available?
- A wide range of sports (team and individual), 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?
- Integrated ICT in teaching, reliable digital platforms for learning, and opportunities for students to engage with coding and digital projects.
- What transport and accessibility options are available?
- Access to bus routes and public transport; facilities to support students with accessibility needs (details available from the school).
- What are typical school fees or additional costs?
- Fees fall in a mid-to-high range for WA Catholic secondary schools, with potential extra costs for uniforms, excursions, and activities.
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## Short Pros & Cons
- Pros:
- Catholic, values-based education with strong pastoral care
- Broad academic pathways (ATAR and VET)
- Diverse co-curricular options (sports, arts, clubs)
- Supportive learning environment for diverse learners
- Modern facilities across science, tech, and performing arts
- Cons:
- Large school environment may feel busy to some students
- Uniform and associated costs can be a consideration
- Transport options depend on route availability
