# 1. Overview
Saint Mary’s Catholic College is a Catholic, co-educational secondary school that emphasises faith-informed learning and holistic development. The college offers a medium-sized learning community with class sizes typically in the low- to mid-20s, enabling more personalised attention and a supportive classroom environment. The atmosphere is generally nurturing and inclusive, with a strong focus on academic achievement, community service, and values-based education.
This environment encourages students to grow academically, spiritually, and socially, while participating in a range of co-curricular activities. The college aims to prepare students for success in further study, Vocational Education and Training, and meaningful contributions to their communities. ⸻
# 2. Academics & Learning
- Academic strengths: The college emphasises core academic disciplines with a particular focus on STEM, English, and leadership development, alongside a strong Catholic education ethos that supports values-based learning.
- Special programs: Options may include accelerated or enrichment opportunities and pathways for Vocational Education and Training (VET) to suit diverse interests and goals.
- NAPLAN / trends: Schools of this kind typically show stable or improving trends over time in key bands, with ongoing emphasis on literacy and numeracy development across year levels.
- Student-teacher ratios: Approximate ratios commonly range around 1:12 to 1:18, supporting targeted instruction and feedback.
- Support for diverse learners: Inclusive education supports for diverse learners including EAL and SEN, with intervention and extension options as needed.
⸻
# 3. Sports & Extracurricular Strengths
- Sports offered: A broad selection typical for regional Australian schools, including codes such as rugby league, soccer, basketball, netball, cricket, and athletics; programs often support regional inter-school competitions.
- Strong teams or achievements: Regular participation in local and regional fixtures with a focus on teamwork, discipline, and sportsmanship.
- Music, arts, drama programs: Active performing arts and music programs, with opportunities to participate in ensembles, choirs, and school productions.
- Clubs: Robotics, chess, coding, debating, and other STEM or humanities clubs encouraged to broaden skills outside the classroom.
- Partnerships: Collaborations with local clubs, community groups, and regional competitions to extend learning and competitive opportunities.
⸻
# 4. Wellbeing & Pastoral Care
- Anti-bullying approach: Clear anti-bullying policies and restorative practices designed to foster respectful behaviour and positive peer relationships.
- House system: A house-based structure to promote leadership, friendship, and healthy competition across activities.
- Counsellors / wellbeing officers: Access to school wellbeing staff for personal, social, and emotional support, as well as guidance for study planning.
- Transition support for new students: Orientation programs, buddy systems, and ongoing mentoring to help new students settle in smoothly.
⸻
# 5. Facilities
- Sports grounds: On-site or adjacent facilities suitable for a range of sports and outdoor activities.
- Libraries: Resource-rich libraries supporting reading, research, and quiet study.
- Science labs: Well-equipped laboratories for practical experiments across science disciplines.
- Music/performing arts centers: Dedicated spaces for music and drama performances and rehearsals.
- Tech/innovation labs: Modern spaces for coding, robotics, and digital projects.
- Cafeteria: On-site canteen or dining facilities to serve students and staff.
- Updated playgrounds: Safe, accessible play and recreation areas for break and physical activity.
⸻
# 6. School Values & Community Culture
- School values / mission: Values-based education grounded in Catholic ethos, focusing on respect, responsibility, compassion, and integrity.
- Leadership style: Collaborative and inclusive, with opportunities for student voice and leadership through student council and targeted programs.
- Behaviour expectations: Clear expectations aligned with the school’s values, reinforced through consistent pastoral systems.
- Community reputation: Strong ties with the local Catholic community and broader Kingaroy region, built on trust, service, and academic effort.
- Diversity & inclusion: Commitment to inclusion and respect for all students, with programs and supports that recognise individual strengths and needs.
⸻
# 7. School Logistics & Daily Operations
- School hours: Typical school day starts in the morning and ends in the mid-to-late afternoon, with variation by year level.
- Before/after school care: Availability often provided through the school or a partner provider to support families with early drop-offs or after-school activities.
- Uniform requirements: Profiled uniform code (daily and sports uniforms) with clear guidelines for adherence.
- Transport (bus routes): Access to regional bus routes and public transport arrangements to support commuting students.
- Canteen availability: Canteen or lunch facilities offering everyday meal options and snacks.
- Fees (low/medium/high ranges): Fees and levies are generally in the mid-range for regional Catholic secondary schools, with additional costs for activities and excursions.
⸻
# 8. Enrolment & Admissions
11. What is the enrolment process and timeline?
- Inquire and express interest: Families typically begin with an expression of interest or application.
- Documentation: Submission of required documents (proof of identity, prior school records, baptism/catholic parish information where applicable, immunisation records).
- Application/interview: An interview or information session is commonly included, with consideration of Catholic family affiliation and potential sibling preference.
- Offer and acceptance: Offers are issued subject to vacancy, with a deadline for acceptance and completion of enrolment forms.
- Orientation: New student orientation and transition activities precede the start of the year.
12. Is there a waiting list, and how does it work?
- Waiting lists may be used when vacancies are limited. Preference is usually given to siblings and Catholic families where applicable, with placement determined by availability and the school’s enrolment criteria.
13. Are there any entry requirements, tests, or interviews?
- Typical entry requirements may include an interview or information session, completion of a simple application, and proof of necessary documentation. Some Catholic schools request baptism or parish references as part of the enrolment process.
14. Does the school accept mid-year transfers?
- Yes, mid-year transfers can be accommodated where vacancies exist, subject to a smooth transition, transfer paperwork, and relevant academic records.
⸻
# 9. Frequently Ask Questions
- Why Parents Choose This School?
Families often choose for faith-based values, a supportive community, balanced academics, and opportunities to participate in a wide range of sports and arts.
- What type of student thrives at this school?
Students who value community, service, personal growth, and a balanced focus on academics, faith, and activities tend to thrive.
- What opportunities are available for students to extend their skills (academics, sports, arts)?
Accelerated or enrichment options, VET pathways, leadership programs, competitive sports, music and drama ensembles, robotics, coding, debating, and other clubs.
- How does the school communicate with parents?
Regular newsletters, emails, SMS alerts, a parent portal, and scheduled parent-teacher interviews ensure ongoing updates about student progress and school events.
- What is the school’s approach to teaching and learning?
A values-based approach integrated with inquiry, differentiation, and opportunities for hands-on learning across disciplines.
- How does the school support students who need extra academic help?
Learning support plans, targeted interventions, tutoring options, EAL and SEN assistance, and small-group support.
- What support is available for academic challenges?
Dedicated staff and programs to identify needs early, with personalised plans and remediation or extension as appropriate.
- How does the school communicate with parents?
See above: multiple channels including portals, newsletters, and direct contact with teachers and leaders.
- What are the class sizes and how much individual attention do students receive?
Class sizes typically range around 20–25 students, with teachers able to provide targeted feedback, formative assessment, and small-group support.
- What extracurricular and sports opportunities are available?
Broad offerings across sports, music, drama, clubs (robotics, chess, coding, debating), and community partnerships for competitions and events.
- What facilities does the school offer (sports, science, arts)?
Sports grounds, libraries, science labs, music/performing arts centers, tech/innovation labs, canteen, and updated playgrounds.
- What is the school’s approach to technology and digital learning?
Integration of digital platforms, computer science and coding activities, possible BYOD or device programs, and emphasis on online safety and digital citizenship.
- What transport and accessibility options are available?
Local bus routes and accessible campus facilities, with parking and drop-off zones as appropriate.
- What are the typical school fees or additional costs?
Fees and levies are commonly mid-range for regional Catholic schools, with additional costs for uniform, excursions, and activities.
⸻
# 10. Short Pros & Cons list
- Pros
- Faith-based education with values at the center
- Supportive, inclusive community and small-to-medium class sizes
- Wide range of co-curriculars (sports, arts, clubs)
- Strong wellbeing and pastoral care
- Modern facilities and dedicated learning spaces
- Cons
- Fees and contribution costs customary for private Catholic schooling
- Limited vacancies depending on year level and intake
- Regional location may require travel for some families
- Demand for certain programs may lead to selective access or wait lists
⸻
