## 1. Overview
St Thomas Aquinas College is a Catholic secondary school in Victoria. The college offers a values‑driven, inclusive learning environment designed to prepare students for both study and life beyond school. It emphasises community, faith, and service, while maintaining a focus onAcademic achievement and well‑being.
- School type: Catholic
- School size: Medium
- Class size: Approximately 20–25 students per class
- Atmosphere/culture: Nurturing, inclusive, academically focused, with sports and community engagement at the heart of daily life
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## 2. Academics & Learning
The college provides a broad curriculum designed to develop core knowledge, critical thinking, and leadership skills.
- Academic strengths: Strong offerings across STEM and English, with opportunities to explore leadership development and languages.
- Special programs: Pathways for accelerated learning and gifted/talented programs; VCE/VCAL options to suit different post‑school trajectories.
- NAPLAN trends: Consistent year‑to‑year improvements in key literacy and numeracy areas, with strong growth among students across bands.
- Student‑teacher ratios: Typically around 1:16–1:22, enabling meaningful teacher support.
- Support for diverse learners: Dedicated support for EAL learners and students with SEN, plus targeted intervention and inclusion programs.
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## 3. Sports & Extracurricular Strengths
Extracurricular life is active and varied, with a strong emphasis on teamwork, creativity, and community.
- Sports offered: Football, basketball, cricket, soccer, netball, athletics, swimming, and more, with opportunities across junior and senior levels.
- Strong teams or achievements: Competitive representation in regional competitions; opportunities to contribute to school pride through team participation.
- Music, arts, drama programs: Regular ensembles, choirs, and theatrical productions; opportunities for solo and group performance.
- Clubs: Robotics, chess, coding, debating, and other academic/interest clubs.
- Partnerships: Collaborations with local clubs and community competitions to broaden competitive and creative experiences.
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## 4. Wellbeing & Pastoral Care
Wellbeing and pastoral care are central to student success, helping students feel safe, valued and connected.
- Anti‑bullying approach: Proactive, whole‑school anti‑bullying program with clear reporting and support pathways.
- House system: House groups foster belonging, healthy competition, and peer support.
- Counsellors / wellbeing officers: Access to school counsellors and wellbeing staff for ongoing support.
- Transition support for new students: Orientation programs, buddy systems, and targeted induction to help new students settle in smoothly.
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## 5. Facilities
Facilities are designed to support a well‑rounded education and engaging learning experiences.
- Sports grounds: On‑site sports facilities for training and events.
- Libraries: Well‑stocked library with study spaces and digital resources.
- Science labs: Modern laboratories for practical science learning.
- Music/performing arts centers: Dedicated spaces for music ensembles and drama.
- Tech/innovation labs: Technology and innovation spaces to support coding, design and digital learning.
- Cafeteria: On‑site dining facilities with student‑friendly options.
- Updated playgrounds: Safe and inviting outdoor spaces for break times and activities.
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## 6. School Values & Community Culture
The school’s culture reflects its Catholic identity, with a focus on character, service, and community.
- School values / mission: Faith, service, excellence, respect and integrity underpin daily life.
- Leadership style: Collaborative, with student leadership opportunities and teacher‑led guidance.
- Behaviour expectations: Clear expectations around respect, responsibility and positive conduct.
- Community reputation: Welcoming and active parent and parish involvement; strong sense of community.
- Diversity & inclusion: Committed to an inclusive environment that welcomes students from diverse backgrounds.
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## 7. School Logistics & Daily Operations
Practical details help families plan around school life.
- School hours: Typically the school day runs morning to afternoon hours (e.g., 9:00 am–3:30 pm), with supervision outside class times as needed.
- Before/after school care: Availability of OSHC or school‑run programs; check current arrangements.
- Uniform requirements: Standard school uniform with designated sports uniform; clear guidelines on dress.
- Transport: Access to local bus routes and train services; school may provide information on public transport options.
- Canteen availability: On‑site canteen or snack facilities available.
- Fees: Fees fall within the mid‑range for private Catholic secondary education in Victoria; exact figures available on request.
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## 8. Enrolment & Admissions
11. What is the enrolment process and timeline?
- Online or in‑person application followed by submission of requested documents (birth certificate, immunisation, previous school records where applicable).
- Shortlisting and notification of next steps, including interviews or information sessions.
- Offer of enrolment and acceptance; payment of any required deposit; orientation and confirmation of place.
12. Is there a waiting list, and how does it work?
- In some cases there is a waitlist; priorities and processing are typically based on date of application, with sibling and parish considerations where applicable.
13. Are there any entry requirements, tests, or interviews?
- Often an interview is part of the process; some cohorts may have optional or targeted tasks to understand student interests and needs. Catholic identification or parish involvement may be requested, depending on the enrolment category.
14. Does the school accept mid‑year transfers?
- Mid‑year transfers may be possible if there are vacancies and appropriate documentation; transfer decisions consider space, timetabling, and prior records.
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## 9. Frequently Asked Questions
- Why Parents Choose This School?
- A values‑based Catholic environment with a focus on academic development, wellbeing, and community involvement.
- What type of student thrives at this school?
- Students who respond well to a supportive, inclusive culture with a balance of academics, sports, arts, and service.
- What opportunities are available for students to extend their skills (academics, sports, arts)?
- Extended pathways in STEM and English, leadership programs, accelerated options, clubs, sports teams, and performing arts.
- How does the school communicate with parents?
- Regular newsletters, parent portals, emails and app notifications; opportunities for parent–teacher meetings.
- What is the school’s approach to teaching and learning?
- A student‑centred, evidence‑informed approach with emphasis on engagement, inquiry, and practical learning.
- How does the school support students who need extra academic help?
- Targeted intervention, tutoring, EAL/SEN support, and small‑group or one‑to‑one assistance where needed.
- What support is available for academic challenges?
- Access to tutoring, study skills programs, and mentoring to build confidence and improve outcomes.
- How does the school communicate with parents? (Repeated in another FAQ line)
- See above: newsletters, portals, calls, and parent‑teacher forums.
- What are the class sizes and how much individual attention do students receive?
- Class sizes around 20–25 students; teachers provide targeted feedback and opportunities for extra help.
- What extracurricular and sports opportunities are available?
- A wide range of sports, arts, music, clubs (robotics, chess, coding, debating) and community activities.
- What facilities does the school offer (sports, science, arts)?
- Comprehensive facilities including sports grounds, libraries, science labs, music/performing arts spaces, and tech labs.
- What is the school’s approach to technology and digital learning?
- Integration of digital tools and online learning resources; emphasis on responsible and effective use of technology.
- What transport and accessibility options are available?
- Local bus/train access; information on routes and supports for students commuting to the college.
- What are the typical school fees or additional costs?
- Fees positioned in the mid‑range for private Catholic schooling in Victoria; specifics available on request.
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## 10. Short Pros & Cons list
- Pros:
- Catholic, values‑driven education with a supportive, inclusive culture.
- Medium class sizes enabling individual attention.
- Broad academics with strengths in STEM, English and languages.
- Broad extracurriculars including sports, arts, robotics, debating.
- Structured wellbeing and pastoral care with a House system.
- Cons:
- As a private Catholic school, fees apply; families should confirm current costs.
- Popular programs may have waiting lists; plan ahead for enrolment deadlines.
- Availability of some specialist programs may vary year to year; check current offerings.
