Santa Sabina College

## 1. Overview Santa Sabina College Strathfield is an independent Catholic girls’ school offering a values-driven education from the early years through to Year 12. The college emphasises academic achievement, faith-based formation, and service to the community within a caring, inclusive environment. - School type: Independent Catholic girls’ school - School size: Medium to large (cohesive K–12 community with a broad range of year levels) - Class size: Typically around mid-teens per class in primary and early secondary years; secondary classes often in the low 20s, with smaller groups for core subject areas - Atmosphere/culture: Nurturing, academically focused, inclusive, with strong pastoral care and a commitment to leadership and service ## 2. Academics & Learning Santa Sabina College supports rigorous learning across the curriculum with strong engagement in both academics and personal development. - Academic strengths: English, STEM, leadership development, and modern languages; robust HSC preparation with a broad subject offering - Special programs: Gifted and Talented/accelerated learning options; opportunities for extended study in senior years; well-developed English as an Additional Language (EAL) support - NAPLAN trends: Historically above state averages with constructive progress in reading and writing; numeracy trends show consistency; overall positive trajectory in higher bands over recent years - Student-teacher ratios: Generally favorable, with smaller class sizes in the primary years and dedicated teachers in the senior years; typical ratios around 1:10–1:15 in many classes - Support for diverse learners: EAL support, learning support/senior learning support coordinators, and inclusive education approaches to help students with diverse needs ## 3. Sports & Extracurricular Strengths A key consideration for many families, with a broad range of activities and competitive opportunities. - Sports offered: Netball, basketball, soccer, tennis, cricket, athletics, swimming, and other school-wide sports programs - Strong teams or achievements: Active participation in regional and inter-school competitions; regular finals appearances in various sports at CIS/ICAS levels - Music, arts, drama programs: Comprehensive performing arts program including ensembles, choirs, and drama productions; strong participation in music exams and concerts - Clubs: Robotics, coding, chess, debating, environmental/sustainability clubs, and other student-led interest groups - Partnerships: Inter-school competitions and collaborations with local clubs and arts/creative programs to broaden opportunities ## 4. Wellbeing & Pastoral Care Pastoral care is a central pillar, supporting students’ wellbeing and personal development. - Anti-bullying approach: Clear anti-bullying policies, regular wellbeing checks, student-led mentoring and awareness initiatives - House system: House structure supports belonging, pastoral care, and friendly competition; promotes teamwork and leadership among students - Counsellors / wellbeing officers: Dedicated school counsellors and wellbeing staff available to provide confidential support - Transition support for new students: Orientation programs, buddy systems, and structured transition activities to help new entrants settle in ## 5. Facilities Facilities are designed to support a wide range of learning and activity experiences. - Sports grounds: Multiple playing fields, courts, and outdoor spaces for PE and athletics - Libraries: Well-equipped library services with study spaces and resources - Science labs: Modern science laboratories for chemistry, biology, and physics practicals - Music/performing arts centers: Dedicated spaces for rehearsals, ensembles, and performances - Tech/innovation labs: Makerspaces and ICT/STEAM facilities to support coding, robotics, and digital projects - Cafeteria: On-site dining facilities offering a range of healthy meal options - Updated playgrounds: Age-appropriate, secure outdoor play areas and breakout spaces ## 6. School Values & Community Culture The school’s ethos and community culture shape daily life and student development. - School values / mission: Catholic values of compassion, integrity, service, and respect; emphasis on social justice and community engagement - Leadership style: Collaborative leadership with student voice through committees and representative structures; emphasis on responsibility and service - Behaviour expectations: Clear codes of conduct, positive behaviour policies, and restorative approaches to discipline - Community reputation: Strong ties with families and alumni; active parent and community involvement - Diversity & inclusion: Inclusive environment that welcomes diverse backgrounds and supports a range of learner needs ## 7. School Logistics & Daily Operations Practical info to help families plan around a school day. - School hours: Typical day runs from morning to mid-afternoon with variations by year level - Before/after school care: On-campus or partner-supported OSHC/after-school care options available - Uniform requirements: Standard uniform with summer and winter options; specifics provided by the school - Transport: Accessible via local transport networks; proximity to Strathfield and surrounding areas; bus routes and parent drop-off/pick-up options available - Canteen availability: On-site canteen or café-style options offering healthy meals - Fees: Fees fall in the mid-to-high range for NSW independent schools; exact amounts vary by year level and program; financial arrangements and scholarships may be available ## 8. Enrolment & Admissions What you need to know to apply and secure a place. 11. What is the enrolment process and timeline? - Submit a complete online application with required documents (birth certificate, baptism/school census details if applicable, prior reports) - Attend information evenings or open days as offered - Participate in an interview and/or assessment tasks appropriate to year level - Receive an offer of admission if a place is available - Accept the offer, pay any acceptance deposit, and complete joining paperwork - Prepare for orientation and welcome activities prior to starting 12. Is there a waiting list, and how does it work? - There is typically a waiting list when demand exceeds places; prioritisation may include sibling preference, Catholic affiliation, and demonstrated fit with the school’s values; wait times vary by year level and intake year 13. Are there any entry requirements, tests, or interviews? - Yes. Entry usually involves an interview and may include a short assessment or tasks related to the applicant’s age and year level; Catholic identity may be considered as part of the process; documentation and references are commonly required 14. Does the school accept mid-year transfers? - Yes, subject to vacancies and a smooth transition plan; mid-year transfers require timely application, assessment of current reports, and coordination with the current school for transcripts and transfer notes ## 9. Frequently Asked Questions Concise answers to common questions families ask. - Why Parents Choose This School? - A values-based, girl-focused education with strong academics, pastoral care, and a thriving community culture - What type of student thrives at this school? - Students who value academic challenge, collaborative learning, faith-based formation, and active participation in sports, arts, and service - What opportunities are available for students to extend their skills (academics, sports, arts)? - Advanced or gifted programs, leadership opportunities, regional and inter-school competitions, diverse clubs, arts productions, and sports teams - How does the school communicate with parents? - Regular newsletters, parent-teacher meetings, online portals for grades and updates, and targeted communications from pastoral and wellbeing staff - What is the school’s approach to teaching and learning? - Inquiry-based, student-centered approaches within a Catholic framework; emphasis on critical thinking, resilience, and real-world application - How does the school support students who need extra academic help? - Dedicated learning support staff, EAL services, targeted literacy/numeracy programs, and differentiated instruction within classes - What support is available for academic challenges? - Access to tutoring or small-group support; collaboration between teachers, counsellors, and parents to tailor strategies - How does the school communicate with parents? (Note: see above) - What are the class sizes and how much individual attention do students receive? - Class sizes are generally in the 20s, with smaller group instruction in key subject areas and targeted teacher support - What extracurricular and sports opportunities are available? - A wide range of sports, music and drama programs, robotics, coding, debating, and other clubs - What facilities does the school offer (sports, science, arts)? - Comprehensive facilities including sports grounds, libraries, science labs, performing arts spaces, and technology/innovation labs - What is the school’s approach to technology and digital learning? - Integrated ICT across the curriculum; emphasis on digital literacy, coding, and safe, responsible use of technology - What transport and accessibility options are available? - Local transport connections and school-arranged options; proximity to train stations and bus routes; access for families across the catchment - What are the typical school fees or additional costs? - Fees are mid-to-high for NSW independent schools; additional costs may include uniforms, activity fees, camp/field trips, and elective materials ## 10. Short Pros & Cons list A quick snapshot to help families compare options. - Pros - Strong academic program with supportive learning environment - Comprehensive wellbeing and pastoral care - Broad extracurriculars across sport, arts, and clubs - Modern facilities and a Catholic values-driven culture - Active parent and community engagement - Cons - Higher tuition compared with public options - Religious affiliation may not suit every family - Competitive intake can lead to waitlists for popular year levels - Large school size can mean fewer spots for individual programs in peak years If you’d like, I can tailor these sections with more specific language or adjust the emphasis to match particular parental concerns or age groups you’re targeting.