St Clare's Catholic High School

Overview

St Clare's Catholic High School, Hassall Grove is a Catholic, co-educational secondary school serving families in Western Sydney. It operates within the Catholic Education Diocese of Parramatta and offers education for Year 7–12 with a focus on building strong academic foundations alongside a values-based culture. The school is positioned as a medium-sized institution that fosters a welcoming, inclusive atmosphere where students are supported to grow academically, socially, and spiritually.

• School type: Catholic
• School size: Medium
• Atmosphere/culture: Nurturing, inclusive, community-focused, with emphasis on values and student wellbeing

Academics & Learning

St Clare's prioritises solid academic outcomes while supporting each student’s development and faith-based formation. The school emphasises core strengths in English and STEM, alongside strong programs in Religious Education and leadership development. There are pathways and opportunities to extend learning for students who are gifted or talented.

• Academic strengths: English, STEM, leadership, and religious education; emphasis on critical thinking, literacy, and numeracy
• Special programs: Accelerated or gifted/talented options; leadership development; faith-based formation and community service
• Support for diverse learners: Dedicated support for EAL and SEN; learning support staff; targeted interventions and adjustments to meet diverse needs

Sports & Extracurricular Strengths

Extracurricular life is a key part of the student experience, with a range of sports and activities designed to engage boys and girls aged 10–14 and beyond.

• Sports offered: Football (soccer), basketball, netball, rugby league, cricket, tennis, athletics, swimming
• Strong teams or achievements: Participation in local and diocesan-level competitions; opportunities to represent the school in various sports
• Music, arts, drama programs: School ensembles, choir, drama productions, and opportunities to perform in community events
• Clubs: Robotics, chess, coding, debating/public speaking, environmental/eco clubs
• Partnerships: Local community clubs, regional and diocesan competitions, and access to visiting coaches or partnerships with local organisations

Wellbeing & Pastoral Care

Wellbeing and pastoral care are central to the student experience, supporting positive development and strong peer relationships.

• Anti-bullying approach: Clear policies and programs promoting respectful behaviour and safe reporting mechanisms
• House system: House groups that foster peer support, mentoring, and positive competition
• Counsellors / wellbeing officers: On-site wellbeing staff available for students and families
• Transition support for new students: Orientation programs, buddy systems, and targeted support to help new entrants settle in

Facilities

The school’s facilities are designed to support a broad curriculum and safe, engaging learning environments.

• Sports grounds
• Libraries
• Science labs
• Music / performing arts centers
• Tech / innovation labs
• Canteen
• Updated playgrounds

School Values & Community Culture

The school communicates a clear ethos and invites students to participate in a respectful, collaborative community.

• School values / mission: Catholic values such as respect, responsibility, compassion, and service; emphasis on character education and ethical decision-making
• Leadership style: Inclusive and student-centred, with opportunities for student voice through councils and leadership roles
• Behaviour expectations: Positive behaviour policies with restorative approaches to discipline
• Community reputation: Welcoming, supportive environment that emphasises family-like culture and community involvement
• Diversity & inclusion: Commitment to inclusion and support for students from diverse backgrounds

School Logistics & Daily Operations

Practical information to help families plan around school life.

• School hours: Typical school day starts in the morning and concludes in the mid-afternoon (exact times published by the school each year)
• Before/after school care: Availability of before/after school care or supervision through school or partner providers
• Uniform requirements: School uniform with specified everyday wear and sports uniform; details provided by the school
• Transport (train/bus routes): Access via local bus routes and public transport; information on pickup/drop-off arrangements available from the school
• Canteen availability: On-site canteen offering healthy meal and snack options
• Fees (low/medium/high ranges): Fees are in the moderate range for a Catholic secondary school; additional costs may apply for elective subjects, uniforms, and certain activities

Enrolment & Admissions

1. What is the enrolment process and timeline?

• Submit an online or paper application during the designated intake period
• Provide required documents (birth details, immunisation records, baptism/catholic parish information if applicable, academic reports)
• Attend an information session or open day; may include a short interview or family meeting
• Offers issued according to available places and intake priorities; confirmation of enrolment completes the process

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

• Yes, there is a waiting list when demand exceeds places
• Priorities typically include siblings, Catholic parish enrolment areas, and date of application; place in the queue is determined by the school in line with policy

1. Are there any entry requirements, tests, or interviews?

• Some years or intake cohorts may require an interview or short assessment
• Catholic ethos and alignment with the school’s values are considered during admissions
• Non-Catholic families may be considered; specific requirements vary by year level and capacity

1. Does the school accept mid-year transfers?

• Mid-year transfers may be accepted if there are vacancies at the relevant year level
• Applicants usually need to provide school reports, attendance records, and other documentation; spaces depend on availability and alignment with the curriculum

Frequently Asked Questions

• Why Parents Choose This School?

- A values-based Catholic environment with a focus on academic growth, wellbeing, and a supportive community

• What type of student thrives at this school?

- Motivated, values-driven students who engage in both academics and co-curricular activities, and who value a supportive, inclusive culture

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

- Strong English and STEM programs, leadership opportunities, sports teams, music and drama programs, and a range of clubs (robotics, chess, coding, debating)

• How does the school communicate with parents?

- Regular newsletters, parent-teacher meetings, in-class updates, and digital platforms for ongoing communication

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

- Student-centred learning with a focus on literacy, numeracy, critical thinking, and faith-informed values; a mix of instructional approaches to meet diverse needs

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

- Targeted interventions, EAL/SEN support, and access to learning support staff

• What support is available for academic challenges?

- Counseling, tutoring options, and coordination with teachers to raise attainment

• What extracurricular and sports opportunities are available?

- A broad range of sports, arts, music, drama, robotics, chess, coding, debating, and other clubs

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

- Sports grounds, libraries, science labs, performing arts spaces, tech/innovation labs, canteen, playgrounds

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

- Integration of digital tools to support learning; emphasis on responsible use, research skills, and online safety

• What transport and accessibility options are available?

- Local bus routes and public transport access; park-and-ride options and drop-off/pick-up arrangements

• What are the typical school fees or additional costs?

- Moderate annual fees with additional costs for uniforms, electives, and activities; availability of financial assistance or support programs where applicable

Short Pros & Cons list

• Pros

- Catholic values-based environment with a supportive, inclusive culture - Balanced focus on academics, wellbeing, and extracurriculars - Range of sports, arts, and clubs to suit diverse interests - Strong pastoral care and transition support for new students

• Cons

- As a medium-sized school, demand can be high for popular year levels or programs - Some years may have waiting lists or limited places in sought-after electives - Fees are required; families may need to budget for uniforms and activities

Note: The above content is a template aligned with common features of Catholic high schools in New South Wales. For the most accurate, up-to-date details—such as current enrolment processes, exact fees, specific programs, and the latest facilities—please consult the school’s official materials or contact the school's administration.