St John XXIII Catholic College

Overview

St John XXIII Catholic College Stanhope Gardens is a Catholic, co-educational school serving families in the Stanhope Gardens area and surrounding communities. The college provides a broad, values-based education across a range of year levels, with a strong emphasis on faith, learning, and service.

As a large Catholic school, it fosters a welcoming, inclusive atmosphere where students are encouraged to pursue academic excellence while developing character, resilience, and a sense of community. The culture emphasizes wellbeing, leadership, and opportunities to contribute to both school life and the broader community.

Academics & Learning

• Academic strengths: English, Mathematics, Science, STEM, and languages, with a focus on critical thinking, literacy, and numeracy. Leadership, public speaking, and collaboration are integrated across the curriculum.
• Special programs: Gifted and Talented options, accelerated learning pathways, and targeted programs to support diverse learner needs.
• Support for diverse learners: Comprehensive EAL (English as an Additional Language) support and SEN (special educational needs) services, along with targeted intervention and inclusive practices.

Sports & Extracurricular Strengths

• Sports offered: Rugby, soccer, netball, basketball, cricket, athletics, swimming, and other team/individual sports common to NSW schools.
• Strong teams or achievements: Active participation in local and regional competitions with regular representation in inter-school events.
• Music, arts, drama programs: Broad music ensembles, school choir/band, drama productions, and opportunities to participate in performing arts.
• Clubs: Robotics, chess, coding, debating, and other enrichment clubs designed to build skills beyond the classroom.
• Partnerships: Connections with local clubs, community organizations, and regional competitions to extend opportunities for students.

Wellbeing & Pastoral Care

• Anti-bullying approach: Clear anti-bullying policies, proactive wellbeing programs, and a positive behaviour framework built on respect and responsibility.
• House system: A house-based structure to foster belonging, teamwork, and healthy competition across year levels.
• Counsellors / wellbeing officers: Access to school counsellors and wellbeing staff to support students’ social, emotional, and mental health needs.
• Transition support for new students: Orientation programs, buddy systems, and gradual onboarding to help new students settle in smoothly.

Facilities

• Sports grounds: On-site sports fields and facilities for a range of activities.
• Libraries: Well-resourced library spaces supporting study, research, and reading for pleasure.
• Science labs: Modern science laboratories to support practical experiments and inquiry-based learning.
• Music/performing arts centers: Dedicated spaces for music, drama, and performances.
• Tech/innovation labs: Computer labs, maker spaces, and digital learning environments.
• Cafeteria: On-site canteen offering healthy meal options and snacks.
• Updated playgrounds: Age-appropriate outdoor spaces and play areas for different year levels.

School Values & Community Culture

• School values / mission: Faith-based education grounded in Catholic values such as compassion, respect, excellence, service, and integrity.
• Leadership style: Collaborative and student-inclusive leadership with opportunities for student voice and leadership roles.
• Behaviour expectations: Clear behavioural standards emphasizing respect, responsibility, and care for others.
• Community reputation: Strong sense of community and positive engagement with families and local communities.
• Diversity & inclusion: Commitment to welcoming and supporting students from diverse backgrounds, with inclusive practices across the school.

School Logistics & Daily Operations

• School hours: Typical school day starts in the morning and finishes in the mid-to-late afternoon, with variations by year level.
• Before/after school care: Availability of before and after school care programs to support working families.
• Uniform requirements: Full school uniform with additional sports uniform for physical activities; guidance provided on seasonal changes.
• Transport (train/bus routes): Access to public transport options and school bus routes, with drop-off and pick-up arrangements coordinated by the college.
• Canteen availability: On-site canteen or tuck shop offering healthy meal options and snacks.
• Fees (low/medium/high ranges): Fees are in the medium-to-high range relative to NSW Catholic schools; precise figures are provided on enrolment materials and the school’s admissions page.

Enrolment & Admissions

1. What is the enrolment process and timeline?

• Submit an expression of interest or enrolment application by the college’s stated deadlines.
• Provide required documentation (proof of residency, immunisation records, previous school reports, birth certificate, etc.).
• Attend an interview and, where appropriate, participate in age- or stage-appropriate assessments.
• Receive an offer if a place is available; receive information on the enrolment agreement and fees.
• Complete any necessary orientation steps before starting.

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

• Yes, when all places are filled a waiting list is maintained. Offers are made in order of priority (e.g., siblings, parish eligibility, date of application, readiness for the program) and based on availability.
• Families are kept informed of their status and any expected timelines.

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

• Entry typically involves an interview with families and students, and may include age-appropriate assessments or activities designed to gauge fit with the school’s program and values.
• Preference may be given to students and families who demonstrate alignment with the Catholic ethos and the school’s values.
• Documentation and forms are required to establish eligibility and readiness for the program.

1. Does the school accept mid-year transfers?

• Mid-year transfers are considered on a case-by-case basis and depend on space, class composition, and enrolment priorities.
• Families should contact the admissions team as early as possible to discuss availability and requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Why Parents Choose This School?

- A values-driven Catholic education that combines faith, academics, and community. - Strong support networks, dedicated teachers, and a focus on student wellbeing. - Broad extracurricular options and opportunities to develop leadership and service.

• What type of student thrives at this school?

- Students who value a faith-based community, academic effort, personal growth, and participation in a range of activities. - Those who respond well to a structured environment with clear expectations and supportive staff.

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

- Academic extension and accelerated pathways; STEM and leadership programs. - Competitive sports teams and intramural options; music ensembles, drama and performing arts. - Clubs such as robotics, chess, coding, and debating to develop additional skills.

• How does the school communicate with parents?

- Regular newsletters, emails, and a student information portal. - Parent-teacher interviews, information evenings, and school events. - Timely updates about student progress and school activities.

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

- A values-based approach that integrates faith with inquiry, collaboration, and critical thinking. - Differentiated instruction to support diverse learners and promote inclusive education. - Emphasis on hands-on learning, problem solving, and real-world applications.

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

- Dedicated learning support staff and targeted intervention programs. - ESL support and resources for students with additional language needs. - Small-group tutoring, study supports, and adjustments to coursework where appropriate.

• What support is available for academic challenges?

- Early identification, mentoring, and structured intervention plans. - Access to counsellors and learning support staff for tailored plans. - Collaboration with families to set goals and monitor progress.

• How does the school communicate with parents? (Repeat)

- See above: newsletters, portal, interviews, and events.

• What extracurricular and sports opportunities are available?

- A broad range of sports, arts, and clubs including robotics, chess, coding, debating, music ensembles, drama, and more. - Regular participation in inter-school competitions and community partnerships.

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

- Modern 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 digital learning across the curriculum, with appropriate devices and platforms, cybersecurity and digital citizenship education, and opportunities for coding and computational thinking.

• What transport and accessibility options are available?

- Access to public transport routes and school-approved bus services, with clear drop-off/pick-up arrangements and accessible facilities for students.

• What are the typical school fees or additional costs?

- Fees are in the medium-to-high range for NSW Catholic schools; there are typically additional costs for uniforms, excursions, and optional activities. Specific figures are provided during the enrolment process.

Short Pros & Cons list

• Pros

- Values-based Catholic education with strong community and wellbeing support. - Broad curriculum with opportunities across academics, arts, and sports. - Comprehensive extra-curricular program and clubs. - Support for diverse learners (EAL and SEN) and a focus on inclusion. - Modern facilities and well-resourced learning environments.

• Cons

- Fees are higher than many state schools; ongoing costs for uniforms and activities. - Large school environment may feel busy; individual turnover can vary by year level. - Competitive culture in some programs; some families may prefer smaller school settings.