UC SSC Lake Ginninderra

## Overview Lake Ginninderra College is a public, co-educational high school located in Belconnen, ACT, serving students in years 7–12. The school aims to provide an inclusive, high-quality learning environment that supports a diverse student population. The campus is medium-to-large, with class sizes that typically sit in the mid-20s, allowing teachers to give students meaningful, individual attention. The atmosphere is inclusive and academically oriented, with a strong emphasis on student wellbeing, participation in sport and the arts, and community involvement. Students are encouraged to engage across a broad range of subjects and activities, helping to build a well-rounded, supportive learning community. --- ## Academics & Learning - Academic strengths: The school places emphasis on STEM and English, with opportunities to develop leadership skills and study additional languages as part of the curriculum. - Special programs: Opportunities exist for accelerated learning and gifted/talented pathways to challenge high-achieving students. - NAPLAN trends: Over recent years, NAPLAN results have shown stable to improving performance in key areas, with targeted programs to address any identified gaps in literacy and numeracy. - Student-teacher ratios: Class sizes and staffing are designed to support strong teacher attention and individualized instruction where needed. - Support for diverse learners: A dedicated EAL (English as an Additional Language) and SEN (Special Educational Needs) support framework provides inclusive learning options, with individual plans and accommodations as required. --- ## Sports & Extracurricular Strengths - Sports offered: A broad program includes basketball, netball, soccer, rugby, athletics, cricket, and swimming, with opportunities for interschool competition. - Strong teams or achievements: Interschool teams and programs regularly compete across district events, with selective teams achieving recognition in regional competitions. - Music, arts, drama programs: A robust performing arts program supports bands, choirs, theatre, and drama productions. - Clubs: Robotics, chess, coding, debating, and other interest-based clubs available to students. - Partnerships: Active connections with local clubs, community organizations, and regional competitions to broaden opportunities for students. --- ## Wellbeing & Pastoral Care - Anti-bullying approach: Whole-school anti-bullying initiatives and restorative practices are in place to promote respectful interactions. - House system: A house-based structure fosters belonging, teamwork, and healthy, positive competition. - Counsellors / wellbeing officers: On-site counsellors and wellbeing staff provide confidential support and guidance for students. - Transition support for new students: Structured transition programs help new students settle into the school community and routines. --- ## Facilities - Sports grounds - Libraries - Science labs - Music/performing arts center - Tech/innovation labs - Cafeteria - Updated playgrounds - Additional facilities: auditorium, maker spaces, and outdoor learning areas that support a range of curricula and extracurricular activities. --- ## School Values & Community Culture - School values / mission: A focus on respect, integrity, excellence, and inclusion guides daily practice and student conduct. - Leadership style: Distributed leadership across staff and student leaders, with opportunities for student voice in school decisions. - Behaviour expectations: Clear codes of conduct and restorative approaches support positive behaviour and accountability. - Community reputation: Known for a welcoming, supportive environment and strong partnerships with families and the wider community. - Diversity & inclusion: A diverse student body is supported through inclusive policies and practices designed to ensure all students can thrive. --- ## School Logistics & Daily Operations - School hours: Typical day runs from morning to afternoon with a lunch break; exact times published by the school each year. - Before/after school care: After-school care options are available through OSHC or school-approved providers. - Uniform requirements: A school uniform is required, with guidance on acceptable attire provided by the school. - Transport (train/bus routes): Bus services and public transport routes serve Belconnen and surrounding areas; information on routes and travel planning is available through regional transit authorities. - Canteen availability: On-site canteen or food service is available, offering a range of meal and snack options. - Fees (low/medium/high ranges): As a public school, there are no tuition fees for attendance; parents may encounter costs related to materials, activities, uniform, and excursions, which are typically within standard public-school ranges. --- ## Enrolment & Admissions 11. What is the enrolment process and timeline? - Enrolment generally occurs through the ACT Education Directorate. Prospective families should follow the official enrollment steps, provide required documentation (proof of identity, residence, immunisation records as applicable), and submit by the stated timelines. Once submitted, the school and Directorate will confirm eligibility and placement according to catchment rules and available spaces. 12. Is there a waiting list, and how does it work? - Waiting lists can apply when spaces are limited. Offers are typically prioritized for students within the catchment area; outside-catchment requests are considered based on space availability and school policies. 13. Are there any entry requirements, tests, or interviews? - For most enrolments, there are no entrance exams. Some programs or out-of-catchment requests may involve additional steps, but standard enrolment focuses on eligibility, documentation, and space. 14. Does the school accept mid-year transfers? - Mid-year transfers are possible if spaces are available and all enrolment requirements are met. Parents should contact the school and the ACT Education Directorate to discuss options and timelines. --- ## Frequently Ask Questions - Why Parents Choose This School? - A balanced offering of academics, strong wellbeing support, broad co-curricular activities, and a welcoming community. - What type of student thrives at this school? - Students who are curious, collaborative, and engaged across academics, sports, arts, and community activities. - What opportunities are available for students to extend their skills (academics, sports, arts)? - Enrichment and accelerated learning options, gifted and talented pathways, STEM and language opportunities, diverse clubs, and competitive sports teams. - How does the school communicate with parents? - Through newsletters, the school app/portal, emails, and regular parent-teacher interviews. - What is the school’s approach to teaching and learning? - Student-centered, differentiated instruction with emphasis on literacy, numeracy, critical thinking, and collaborative learning. - How does the school support students who need extra academic help? - Targeted learning support, tutoring programs, EAL and SEN services, and tailored support plans. - What support is available for academic challenges? - Individualized plans, small-group tutoring, and access to learning support staff and specialists. - How does the school communicate with parents? - See above: newsletters, app/portal, emails, and interviews. - What are the class sizes and how much individual attention do students receive? - Class sizes typically sit in the mid-20s, with teachers available for differentiation and targeted support as needed. - What extracurricular and sports opportunities are available? - A wide range of sports, music/arts programs, robotics, chess, coding, debating clubs, and participation in interschool competitions. - What facilities does the school offer (sports, science, arts)? - Modern sports facilities, comprehensive science labs, performing arts spaces, libraries, maker spaces, and tech/innovation labs. - What is the school’s approach to technology and digital learning? - Integration of digital tools, computer labs, student devices where appropriate, and use of an online learning management system to support learning. - What transport and accessibility options are available? - Government bus services and accessible transport options are available; families should check local routes and accessibility provisions. - What are the typical school fees or additional costs? - Public-school attendance is tuition-free; there are costs for materials, activities, uniform, and excursions, which are typical for public secondary schools. --- ## Short Pros & Cons list - Pros - Strong academic programs with breadth across STEM, English, and languages - Broad range of co-curricular options (sports, arts, clubs) - Supportive wellbeing and pastoral care with a house system - Inclusive culture with a focus on diversity and belonging - Modern facilities and dedicated learning spaces - Cons - Large school size can mean busier corridors and higher demand for facilities - Uniform costs and activity-related expenses - Space constraints at peak times may affect course selections in some years - Catchment boundaries can influence enrolment options for non-local families