## 1. Overview
Thomas More College is a Catholic co-educational high school serving Year 7–12 in Salisbury Downs, Adelaide. It sits within the South Australian Catholic Education system and aims to provide a faith-informed, values-driven education.
- School type: Catholic
- School size: Medium
- Class size: Approximately 20–25 students
- Atmosphere/culture: Inclusive, nurturing, academically focused with a faith-based foundation
## 2. Academics & Learning
- Academic strengths: English, Mathematics, STEM, and the arts are supported alongside leadership development and language studies, with an emphasis on values-led learning.
- Special programs: Gifted & Talented pathways, accelerated learning options, and Vocational Education & Training (VET) pathways are typically available to provide broader options beyond the core curriculum.
- NAPLAN trends: Longitudinal trends generally show stability with targeted literacy and numeracy supports in place to drive improvements in reading and writing over time.
- Student-teacher ratios: Typically around 1:12–1:18, varying by year level and subject.
- Support for diverse learners: EAL support, learning support plans for SEN students, and access to guidance staff to help students thrive academically and personally.
## 3. Sports & Extracurricular Strengths
- Sports offered: A range of team and individual sports, such as football (soccer), basketball, netball, cricket, tennis, and athletics, with opportunities to represent the school in inter-school competitions.
- Strong teams or achievements: Competitive inter-school teams across multiple sports, with regular involvement in regional/state events.
- Music, arts, drama programs: School bands, choirs, theatre productions, and opportunities to participate in performing arts showcases.
- Clubs: Robotics, coding, chess, debating, and other interest-based clubs that foster STEM, critical thinking, and communication.
- Partnerships: Connections with local sports academies and community clubs, plus opportunities to enter external competitions and events.
## 4. Wellbeing & Pastoral Care
- Anti-bullying approach: Clear policies and reporting processes, with a whole-school emphasis on respectful relationships and wellbeing.
- House system: House-based pastoral care structure to build community, leadership, and school spirit.
- Counsellors / wellbeing officers: Access to school counsellors and wellbeing staff to support mental health, study stress, and personal development.
- Transition support for new students: Orientation programs, buddy systems, and targeted transition activities to help new students settle in.
## 5. Facilities
- Sports grounds: Dedicated outdoor playing fields and courts for a variety of sports.
- Libraries: On-site library with a range of print and digital resources.
- Science labs: Modern science laboratories to support practical experiments and STEM learning.
- Music/performing arts centers: Facilities to support music ensembles, drama, and performances.
- Tech/innovation labs: Dedicated spaces for technology, robotics, and digital projects.
- Cafeteria: On-site canteen providing daily meals and snack options.
- Updated playgrounds: Safe, updated spaces for student recreation and socializing.
## 6. School Values & Community Culture
- School values / mission: A Catholic educational philosophy centered on faith, service, integrity, and compassion; emphasis on character development alongside academics.
- Leadership style: student leadership opportunities, collaborative decision-making with teachers, and a culture that encourages initiative and responsibility.
- Behaviour expectations: Clear behavioural standards built on respect, responsibility, and kindness.
- Community reputation: Known as a supportive, faith-based community that values family involvement and student wellbeing.
- Diversity & inclusion: Commitment to an inclusive environment with support for diverse backgrounds, including EAL learners and students from different cultural contexts.
## 7. School Logistics & Daily Operations
- School hours: Typical start around 8:30am and finish around 3:00–3:15pm; exact times can vary by year level and day.
- Before/after school care: Availability may be through on-site or partnered providers; check with the school for current arrangements.
- Uniform requirements: School uniform policy with specific guidelines and approved suppliers; students wear uniform daily.
- Transport (train/bus routes): Bus services and public transport options available in the northern Adelaide region; school drop-off and pick-up zones are usually arranged to support parents.
- Canteen availability: On-site canteen offering meals and snacks.
- Fees (low/medium/high ranges): Fees fall in a medium range for non-government Catholic schools; additional costs may include uniforms, excursions, and materials.
## 8. Enrolment & Admissions
11. What is the enrolment process and timeline?
- Submit an online expression of interest or application.
- Provide required documentation (academic records, proof of identity, etc.).
- Participate in an interview/meeting process; there may be a selection discussion and consideration of allocations for year level.
- Offers and acceptance follow; enrolment forms completed; orientation planned as part of the intake.
- Timelines can vary year to year, so check the school’s current admissions calendar.
12. Is there a waiting list, and how does it work?
- Yes, there can be a waiting list if applications exceed places.
- Priorities often include siblings, parish/Catholic community considerations, and available vacancies.
- The school will communicate expected timelines and next steps if you are on the waiting list.
13. Are there any entry requirements, tests, or interviews?
- Usually an interview or meeting with families and the student.
- Documentation such as academic records, proof of identity, and confirmation of Catholic affiliation may be requested.
- Specific assessment or information sessions may occur as part of the enrolment process.
14. Does the school accept mid-year transfers?
- Mid-year transfers are possible if vacancies exist and transfer arrangements align with the school’s policies.
- Transfers typically require official transcripts, prior school records, and a settling plan for the new student.
## 9. Frequently Asked Questions
- Why Parents Choose This School?
- A values-driven Catholic education with strong pastoral care, a focus on student wellbeing, and a broad range of academic and co-curricular options.
- What type of student thrives at this school?
- Students who are engaged, respectful, collaborative, and motivated to grow academically, socially, and spiritually.
- What opportunities are available for students to extend their skills (academics, sports, arts)?
- Academic extension through gifted pathways, leadership programs, and VET options; diverse sports; music, theatre, and clubs such as robotics, coding, and debating.
- How does the school communicate with parents?
- Through emails, newsletters, school apps or portals, and regular parent-teacher interviews or information evenings.
- What is the school’s approach to teaching and learning?
- Student-centered, with differentiation to meet varied needs, use of technology to support learning, and emphasis on building resilience and critical thinking.
- How does the school support students who need extra academic help?
- Targeted literacy/numeracy support, learning plans, access to SEN support staff, and eligible tutoring or tutoring arrangements.
- What support is available for academic challenges?
- Dedicated teachers and support staff, access to counsellors, and structured plans to help students stay on track.
- How does the school communicate with parents?
- See above: consistent channels including digital updates, newsletters, and parent-teacher contacts.
- What are the class sizes and how much individual attention do students receive?
- Class sizes typically around 20–25 students, with teachers providing targeted feedback and support within lessons and through additional help sessions as needed.
- What extracurricular and sports opportunities are available?
- A broad mix including team sports (e.g., soccer, basketball, netball), athletics, music, drama, and clubs like robotics, coding, chess, and debating.
- What facilities does the school offer (sports, science, arts)?
- Modern sports grounds, libraries, science labs, music/performing arts spaces, tech/innovation labs, canteen, and updated playgrounds.
- What is the school’s approach to technology and digital learning?
- Integration of digital tools in lessons, use of learning platforms, and a structured approach to safe and responsible technology use.
- What transport and accessibility options are available?
- Local bus routes and public transport access; designated drop-off/pick-up zones; accessible facilities to support students.
- What are the typical school fees or additional costs?
- Fees are in the medium range for non-government Catholic schools; additional costs may include uniforms, excursions, textbooks, and materials.
## 10. Short Pros & Cons
- Pros
- Strong Catholic values and pastoral care
- Inclusive, supportive culture
- Broad academic and vocational pathways
- Wide range of co-curriculars (sports, arts, clubs)
- Modern facilities and resources
- Cons
- Fees apply (not government-free)
- Large school may mean less individual attention at times
- Transition can be busy for new families; practical planning recommended
Note: This content is intended as a guide for parents and should be verified with the school for the most current details on enrolment, programs, and policies.
