A Guide to Catholic Schools in Australia

Catholic schools cater to students from Kindergarten through to Year 12 (Senior Secondary). They serve both Catholic and non-Catholic students, though the schools are deeply rooted in the Catholic faith and tradition.

Educational Philosophy: Catholic schools in Australia aim to develop students’ intellectual, moral, spiritual, and physical capacities, fostering a strong sense of community and service to others. The teaching and activities at these schools are often influenced by Catholic teachings, with an emphasis on values such as compassion, justice, and respect.

Religious Education: All Catholic schools include Religious Education (RE) as part of the curriculum, where students learn about Catholic beliefs, traditions, and the role of the Church. Students may also participate in regular prayer, Mass, and other religious activities.

Catholic schools teach the same curriculum as government schools and almost 20 percent of students in Australia attend one.

These schools are part of the broader Catholic education system, which is one of the largest non-government education systems in the country.

The mission of Catholic schools is to foster a sense of community, respect, and social justice while preparing students for future challenges. They are open to students of all backgrounds, regardless of their religious affiliations, promoting inclusivity and diversity.

Types of Catholic Schools

There are various types of Catholic schools in Australia, with different management structures:

• Diocesan Schools: These schools are managed by local dioceses (regional church jurisdictions), which are part of a broader Catholic education network in each state or territory.
• Religious Order Schools: These schools are often run by specific Catholic religious orders (e.g., Jesuits, Marists, Christian Brothers) and follow the charism and ethos of the order.
• Independent Catholic Schools: Some Catholic schools are privately operated, independent of diocesan or religious order control, but still adhere to Catholic educational principles.

Curriculum

The curriculum in Catholic schools aligns with the Australian Curriculum, ensuring that students receive a high-quality education in core subjects such as English, Mathematics, Science, and Humanities. Additionally, Catholic schools often incorporate religious education as a key component of their curriculum. This subject helps students explore faith, understand Catholic teachings, and develop a Christianity prescribed framework for their lives.

Catholic schools also emphasize critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills, preparing students for the complexities of the modern world.

Certificate Awarded

Upon completion of secondary education, students at Catholic schools typically receive the Senior Secondary Certificate of Education or its equivalent, depending on the state or territory. This qualification is recognized nationally and is essential for further education or entering the workforce.

Fees

While Catholic schools are often more affordable than private institutions, there are still fees associated with enrollment. These can vary widely depending on the school and its location. Generally, fees cover tuition, resources, and extracurricular activities. Additionally, some schools may offer financial assistance or scholarships for families in need. It’s important to inquire about fee structures and any available support when researching schools.

The sources of funds for Catholic systemic schools are government grants, school fees, and other private income such as subject levies, parish grants and fund-raising by Parents & Friends Associations. In general the fees for these schools ranges from $600 to $8000 per year.

Families who are unable to pay school fees and other charges are still very welcome to enroll in Catholic schools. Parish priests and Principals have the discretion to reduce or waive tuition fees, Building Levies and other charges and levies, in whole or part, for those families that can demonstrate that they are experiencing genuine financial difficulties.

Subjects Offered

In addition to the core subjects, Catholic schools offer a diverse range of elective subjects, which may include:

• The Arts: Music, Drama, Visual Arts
• Technology: Information Technology, Design and Technology
• Languages: Various foreign languages to promote cultural understanding
• Physical Education: Encouraging a healthy lifestyle through sports and physical activities

These subjects are designed to cater to a wide range of interests and talents, allowing students to explore their passions and develop new skills.

Religious Education

Religious education is a cornerstone of Catholic schooling. It goes beyond mere instruction in Catholic doctrine; it encourages students to engage with their faith and understand its relevance in their lives. Students learn about the Bible, the teachings of Jesus, and the importance of community service and social justice. This education fosters a sense of belonging and helps students develop a moral compass that guides their decisions.

Extracurricular Activities

Catholic schools pride themselves on providing a well-rounded education that extends beyond the classroom. Extracurricular activities play a vital role in student development and may include:

• Sports Teams: Opportunities to compete in various sports, promoting teamwork and physical fitness.
• Performing Arts: Drama productions, music ensembles, and dance groups that encourage creativity and self-expression.
• Community Service: Programs that allow students to engage with and give back to their local communities.
• Clubs and Societies: Various interest-based groups that cater to diverse student interests, from debating to environmental initiatives.

These activities not only enhance students’ skills but also help build friendships and foster a sense of belonging within the school community.

Enrolment in Catholic Schools

Enrolling in a Catholic school typically involves the following steps:

• Application: Parents must submit an application form to the school, providing information about the student, family, and the reasons for choosing a Catholic school.
• Interviews: Some schools may conduct an interview with the student and parents to ensure that the family is supportive of the school’s Catholic ethos and values.
• Priority for Catholic Families: Catholic schools generally give priority to Catholic students or those with a Catholic parent, although non-Catholic students may also be accepted.

Enrolment policies and processes can vary by school, so it’s important to check the specific requirements of each institution.

Tips for Getting Admission

1. Start Early: Begin your research well in advance. Many Catholic schools have waiting lists, so it’s advisable to apply as early as possible.
2. Visit Schools: Attend open days or school tours to get a feel for the environment, meet teachers, and ask questions about the curriculum and values.
3. Prepare Your Child: Encourage your child to express their interests and aspirations during interviews. Schools often look for students who can articulate their goals and show enthusiasm for learning.
4. Engage with the Community: Being involved in the local parish or community can enhance your application. Many Catholic schools value a commitment to their community and faith.
5. Understand the Application Process: Each school may have its own admission requirements, so be sure to review them carefully and provide all necessary documentation.

Catholic School Networks and Associations

Catholic schools are part of larger educational networks that help provide resources, training, and advocacy:

• National Catholic Education Commission (NECC) was established by the Australian Catholic Bishops Conference as the national peak body representing Catholic Education in Australia. NCEC complements and supports at the national level the work of the State and Territory Catholic Education Commissions.

  Official Website – http://www.ncec.catholic.edu.au/

• Catholic Education Office (CEO): This office is responsible for managing Catholic schools within each diocese or archdiocese, including governance, support, and development.

Major Catholic School Networks

Each state and territory in Australia has its own network of Catholic schools, overseen by local diocesan or archdiocesan education authorities:

• New South Wales: Catholic Schools NSW
• Victoria: Catholic Education Melbourne
• Queensland: Queensland Catholic Education Commission
• South Australia: Catholic Education South Australia
• Western Australia: Catholic Education Western Australia
• Tasmania: Catholic Education Tasmania
• Australian Capital Territory: Catholic Education Office, Archdiocese of Canberra & Goulburn
• Northern Territory: Catholic Education Office of the Northern Territory