Comparing 6 schools side by side in USD.
Located in the leafy inner Canberra suburb of Deakin, Canberra Girls Grammar School spreads across two campuses and has a multi-purpose facility on the shores of Lake Burley Griffin. The Early Learning Centre and Junior School are at 24 Grey Street, Deakin ACT 2600; the Senior School is at Melbourne Avenue, Deakin ACT 2600. The school's Deakin campuses provide easy access to airport, road and rail transportation.
Early Learning Centre (ages 3–6); Junior School (Kindergarten to Year 6); Senior School (Year 7 to Year 12).
Independent girls' school offering day and boarding; Canberra's first authorised IB Continuum School offering Primary Years Programme (PYP), Middle Years Programme (MYP) and Diploma Programme (DP). The school also hosts a boarding community.
Inclusive Learning and Enrichment Program coordinates support for diverse learning needs, including gifted and talented students, students with disabilities, and those needing social-emotional support. Programs include inspirED (Junior School), Middle Years Study Skills, Senior Study Support, Negotiated Studies (Year 10) and ILP-based support for students with disabilities.
Anglican
Class times: Early Learning Centre 9:00–3:00; Junior School 8:45–3:20; Senior School 8:45–3:20.
Private CGGS bus service operates a Northside route for Kindergarten–12 students, serving Gungahlin, Franklin, O'Connor, Dickson, Ainslie and Campbell. NSW residents can access CDC Canberra bus routes; there are also weekly and casual boarding options available.
The school has a boarding house (the BoHo), the ACT's first and only exclusively female boarding option. Boarding options include full-time boarding, weekly boarding, and casual boarding; international and regional students typically board full-time. The BoHo is located on the Senior School grounds and provides meals in the Dining Hall, study spaces and health and wellbeing support, with a dedicated Director of Boarding and a team of supervisors.
Uniforms are available exclusively from The CGGS Shop on the Senior School campus. The shop stocks new and second-hand CGGS uniforms, including sports items, with online ordering and pickup or home delivery. Cash payments are not accepted.
Meals are provided in the Dining Hall with a balanced hot and cold menu. The menu accommodates dietary requirements and uses locally sourced produce; it changes seasonally and evolves in response to boarder feedback.
The House System is the basis of the pastoral care program. There are four Junior School houses and six Senior School houses; students remain in the same House for the duration of their time at CGGS, with Houses providing opportunities for participation in music, dance, drama, sport, debating and leadership activities.
The ownership of CGGS properties is vested in CGGS, a company limited by guarantee, as Trustee for the Canberra Girls Grammar Property Trust. Operations are governed by a Board of Directors, the majority of whom are appointed by the Bishop-in-Council of the Diocese of Canberra and Goulburn, with five Directors elected by the company's members. The Principal is appointed by the Board and leads the school with the support of the Executive.
Junior School uses the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme (PYP) for Kindergarten to Year 5, and Year 6 marks the introduction of the International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme (MYP). Years 7–9 study English, Mathematics, Science, Humanities, Design Technologies, Language, Art and Health and Physical Education, with Languages offered in Latin, Chinese and French and Arts options in Visual Art, Drama, Dance or Music. Years 11–12 offer either the ACT Board of Senior Secondary Studies (BSSS) package or the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP); both lead to an Australian Tertiary Admissions Ranking (ATAR). The IBDP comprises six subject groups plus core components Theory of Knowledge, Extended Essay and Creativity, Activity, Service; CGGS notes the IBDP as a holistic pre-tertiary option. The school integrates the IB framework with the ACT senior secondary pathways, supporting multiple post-school routes.
Jaya Pitchford was the 2025 Dux of the BSSS cohort with an ATAR of 99.6 and received a Recognition of Excellence Award; Graduation also highlighted award recipients in English and Mathematics. The Class of 2025 profiles show high-achieving outcomes and progression into competitive university programs.
Graduates pursue higher education at universities including the Australian National University, Charles Sturt University, University of Wollongong, University of Melbourne, University of Sydney, University of New South Wales, and Central Queensland University; individual profiles note plans to study in 2026–2027 or pursue related programs (e.g., Adarae Wong to the University of Melbourne; Maeve Ryan to CSU; Charlotte Walker to UOW; Isabelle Hung to CQUniversity). Suha Thazhathezil Zakir also heads toward Medicine at ANU, and Heidi King plans to study engineering at the Australian Defence Force Academy.
CGGS identifies giftedness across areas including academics, creative arts, sport, leadership and service; it uses a balanced identification process and provides high-quality, specialised programs and learning environments, including curriculum compacting, cluster grouping, above-level testing, subject acceleration, gifted profiles and in-class differentiation; Enhanced learning options extend opportunities beyond the standard curriculum.
The school delivers pastoral care and wellbeing across student life. It focuses on the physical, emotional, cognitive, spiritual and social health and development of all students. Educators take responsibility for supporting each student's personal, social and physical development through learning engagements both within and outside the curriculum. The House system anchors the pastoral program, creating a caring and positive environment and helping students develop self-esteem, resilience and a sense of social justice. The pastoral program is supported by heads of house, school psychologists and the Chaplain, with expert guest speakers. Parents are partners in supporting students' academic, social and emotional growth to help them become independent, world-ready young women.
The Inclusive Learning and Enrichment Program is coordinated by the Head of Inclusive Learning and Enrichment with the assistance of the Inclusive Learning and Enrichment Support Team. It recognises diverse learning needs, including gifted and talented students, students with disabilities or specific learning difficulties, and students whose welfare or emotional wellbeing need particular support. An Individual Learning Plan (ILP) is developed for students with an identified disability in collaboration with an advisory teacher, parents, classroom teachers and the student, with long-term goals and short-term objectives. The ILP is supported by the Inclusive Learning and Enrichment team to enable learning across the curriculum. InspirED (Junior School) provides learning extension and targeted support, including high-potential learner programs and interventions such as small-group reading and numeracy support. The aim is to tailor learning to the individual student's needs.
The school places pastoral care and wellbeing at the core of student life and focuses on the whole person. It attends to physical, emotional, cognitive, spiritual and social health and development. Pastoral care is built on the House system and is supported by Heads of House, school psychologists, the Chaplain and guest speakers, with reinforcement through camps, chapel and service opportunities. The program supports adolescents' social and emotional growth and is integrated with the school's broader curriculum to nurture resilient, well-rounded young women.
CGGS has zero tolerance for child abuse and is committed to the safety, wellbeing and development of all children and young people. The school has policies, procedures and training to meet obligations under the National Principles for Child Safe Organisations and relevant laws. All staff, volunteers and anyone involved in child-connected work are responsible for safeguarding. If there is a belief or suspicion that a child is being abused or neglected, contact the Child and Youth Protection Services (CYPS) and the School immediately. A Child Safe Code of Conduct and Child Safe Policy are provided for viewing.
Intake and enrolment structure: CGGS is co-educational from Early Learning to Year 3, then female-focused through to Year 12. Intake years include Reception, Pre-Kindergarten, Kindergarten (co-educational) and Years 4, 7 and 10 (female-focused). International applications are accepted from Year 3. Most enrolments are confirmed two years in advance; applications are accepted year-round; enrolment can commence at any time, depending on waitlists. Step 1: Enquire. Step 2: Apply. Step 3: Documentation. Step 4: Interview. Step 5: Offer. Step 6: Confirmation. Step 1: Enquire contact details: Enrolments Team via online enquiry form, phone 02 6202 6420 or email [email protected]. Step 2: Apply: Online application with a 235 AUD non-refundable non-transferable fee. Step 3: Documentation: Two years prior to entry, waitlisted applicants are contacted to request updated documents; if the start date is immediate, this is requested at application. Step 4: Interview: Interview with the Principal, Head of Junior or Senior School or delegate; boarders involve the Director of Boarding; ELC interviews are six months prior to commencement with a Conditional Letter of Offer. Step 5: Offer: Letter of Offer and Enrolment Agreement issued after the interview. Step 6: Confirmation: Enrolment Agreement signed and 2,500 AUD non-refundable enrolment fee paid; Boarding House Agreement for boarders; enrolment is guaranteed through to Year 3 for boys and Year 12 for girls, provided ongoing requirements are met.
Scholarship and Bursary Program has two streams: The Scholarship Stream and The Bursary Stream. The Scholarship Stream recognises academic excellence and achievement in sport, music or the arts; Indigenous students may access boarding; Scholarships are generally 25% of tuition and may be means-tested; An Academic Assessment Services (AAS) test is required. Scholarships include the Principal's Scholarship of Excellence; Gabriel Foundation Scholarship (Academic, Arts, Music, Sport); Indigenous Scholarship. The Bursary Stream provides means-tested financial tuition support; Indigenous opportunities with boarding; Bursaries include Gabriel Foundation Bursary and Archer Family Bursary; Archer Year 11 entry; Gabriel Foundation Bursary and Archer Family Bursary Remissions: typically 25% or more for Gabriel Foundation; 50% for Archer Family Bursary; The Gabriel Foundation funds both Scholarship and Bursary programs. Applications for the 2028 Scholarship and Bursary Program are open; close on Wednesday 18 March 2026; Bursary applications are accepted year-round; Guidelines and Policy available.
Waitlist: Enrolment is influenced by waitlists; most enrolments are confirmed two years in advance; applications are accepted year-round; enrolment can commence at any time depending on waitlists.
Location: Barton, ACT 2600, Australia. Address: New South Wales Crescent, Barton. The ACT Government's Transport Canberra network provides bus and light rail options for travel to and from the school. Walking or cycling is encouraged for safety and to promote activity.
Kindergarten to Year 6 (Primary) and Year 7 to Year 10 (Secondary). The Primary curriculum is harmonised (Harmonised K-6) and combines French and Australian curricula. All Secondary students study the IB Middle Years Programme (MYP) with two streams: English/French Stream and English Stream.
Public binational school (France–Australia)
Student Welfare and Student Support are provided.
France and Australia (binational)
Primary day: 9:00 a.m. to 3:15 p.m.; Secondary day: 8:50 a.m. to 3:15 p.m. Supervision starts 30 minutes before school (8:30 a.m. for primary and 8:20 a.m. for secondary). After school care and transport options available.
Bus service is operated by the Parents and Citizens Association (P&C).
The school provides a bilingual program in English and French. Kindergarten to Year 2 has four days of French instruction and one day of English (80:20 split). From Year 3 to Year 6, English and French instruction is balanced 50:50. The French secondary program runs for Years 7–10. The English Stream studies the Australian Curriculum through an International Baccalaureate framework and is an authorised IB Middle Years Programme school since 2006. The school implements a bilingual program across all years to support multilingual learning.
There were 1,597 students enrolled and 95.77 full-time equivalent teaching staff (60.91 permanent, 34.86 temporary), giving a student–teacher ratio of about 16.7:1.
NAPLAN results are reported for Years 3, 5, 7 and 9. Mean scores show Year 3 Reading 436 (School) vs ACT 415; Numeracy 429 vs 414. Year 5 Reading 527 (School) vs 509; Numeracy 524 vs 495. Year 7 Reading 571 (School) vs 548; Numeracy 567 vs 543. Year 9 Reading 604 (School) vs 576; Numeracy 600 vs 573.
Gifted & Talented Education operates under the ACT Education Directorate's policy and guidelines. K–6 classes are mixed-ability with targeted extension; highly able students are grouped with like minds to facilitate effective collaboration. Students identified as gifted or talented have a Gifted Individualised Learning Plan (GILP) created after a year of case management, in collaboration with staff and parents.
The school develops the Personal & Social Program led by the Student Engagement Executive Teacher, who also oversees the Student Representative Council and its activities. All students have a right to feel safe and happy at school, and a range of support services are available through Student Services. The Student Welfare Executive Teacher, the Student Engagement Executive Teacher, the Student Support Officer, and the School Psychologist provide direct support, and the Year Coordinators monitor the academic, social and emotional development of their year groups. Every student belongs to a Contact Group, and the Contact Group teacher meets with the student daily to offer guidance. The ACT Education Central Telehealth Service provides short-term telehealth support run by school psychologists and can be accessed via an online booking form or by phone during term time.
Support for students with additional needs is provided through the school's Student Welfare and Student Support structures. A School Psychologist and Year Coordinators monitor academic, social and emotional development and advise on appropriate supports. Referrals and access to support are coordinated through Student Services, with ongoing in-school assistance as needed.
The school operates a bilingual program in English and French. In Kindergarten to Year 2, students have four days of French instruction and one day of English (80:20 split). By Year 3, students develop basic French literacy and transition to 50:50 English/French instruction through Year 6. There are up to three bilingual hours per week where French and Australian teachers work together with each class to promote bilingualism and switching between languages, with students expected to operate in both languages; by Year 6 students are working bilingually at an age-appropriate level.
All students have a right to feel safe and happy at school. The school provides mental wellbeing support through a School Psychologist and a dedicated welfare team, including the Student Welfare Executive Teacher and the Student Support Officer. A Year Coordinator monitors the emotional and social development of students within their year group, and the daily Contact Group structure provides consistent support for students.
Safeguarding is integrated into daily school life through the safeguarding-focused roles in Student Services. All students have the right to feel safe at school, and the Student Welfare Executive Teacher, the Student Support Officer, the School Psychologist, Year Coordinators, and Contact Group teachers are available to support students seeking help or reporting concerns.
1. Parents/carers may apply to enrol their child at an ACT public school at any time during the school year using an online enrolment form. The online enrolment form starts the enrolment process.
2. Enrolling in kindergarten to year 6: the bilingual program is open to ACT residents. Enrol using the Online Enrolment Form. Applications to the junior school will be assessed and scored against the enrolment criteria.
3. Years 1 to 6 criteria for studying in French: applicants seeking to study in French at TPS in years 1 to 6 require a sufficient level of French to access the curriculum. Applications will be assessed against one of the following criteria according to the applicant's French language background: (1) previous schooling in French; (2) previous schooling in another school with evidence of subjects taught in French; (3) no previous schooling with evidence of subjects taught in French. For internal assessment purposes applicants are scored out of 80 and will be advised in their outcome letter of the criterion and score.
4. Enrolment outcomes and prioritisation: primary school applicants who meet the criteria will be enrolled up to the limit of places available. If demand exceeds capacity, priority is given by: (1) assessment score against the criteria; (2) proximity to the school. Applicants will be advised in their outcome letter of the criterion under which their application was assessed and their score.
5. Other enrolment considerations: deferrals are not permitted while away from the ACT. The school no longer maintains a waitlist; the existing waitlist for the 2025 school year will operate until 28 July 2025, when it will be deleted; no new applications will be added after 29 April 2025. Eligible applicants unable to be enrolled will receive an offer from their Priority Enrolment Area (PEA) school and may seek review or appeal; applicants may re-apply to TPS or any other ACT public school at any time. Families living overseas or interstate must be living in the ACT or region to be enrolled in an ACT public school; applications from families planning to move to the ACT but living overseas will be cancelled and asked to re-apply when living in the ACT. Children of diplomats transferring from overseas to work at the French or Canadian Embassies are guaranteed a kindergarten to year 12 place at their PEA school; TPS cannot hold places in the French Stream for late arrivals after the annual enrolment bulk round in early June. Applicants with disability may receive reasonable adjustments to facilitate access to the enrolment process, with consultation between the school and the applicant/parent. The ACT Education Directorate supports families and their children from non-English-speaking backgrounds to settle into their local ACT public school. If you missed the 2026 Kindergarten Information Session, a PowerPoint presentation is available. []
Waitlists: The school no longer maintains a waitlist of eligible applicants unable to enrol for capacity reasons. The existing waitlist for the 2025 school year will operate until 28 July 2025, when it will be deleted. No new applications will be added to the waitlist after 29 April 2025. Eligible applicants unable to be enrolled will receive an offer from their Priority Enrolment Area (PEA) school and may seek review or appeal; applicants may re-apply to Telopea Park School or any other ACT public school at any time. Families living overseas or interstate must be living in the ACT or region to be enrolled in an ACT public school; applications from families planning to move to the ACT but still overseas will be cancelled and asked to re-apply when living in the ACT. Children of diplomats transferring from overseas to work at the French or Canadian Embassies are guaranteed a kindergarten to year 12 place at their PEA school. TPS cannot hold late-year places in the French Stream after the bulk enrolment round. Applicants with disability may receive reasonable adjustments to facilitate access to the enrolment process. []
Radford College is located in Canberra's northern suburb of Bruce on a 46-acre site bounded by College Street to the north, Haydon Drive to the east and Gossan Hill to the south. The campus address is 1 College Street, Bruce, ACT 2617. The school sits in the Bruce precinct, a well-established educational area in north Canberra. A dedicated Transport Canberra school bus service operates to transport students to and from Radford College.
Pre-Kindergarten to Year 12, with a Junior School and Secondary School. Years 7–10 and Years 11–12 form the Secondary School structure. The curriculum includes International Baccalaureate Programme-based learning.
Independent Anglican co-educational day school
Anglican
A dedicated Transport Canberra school bus service transports students to and from Radford College. It serves Lawson, Kaleen, Giralang, Ngunnawal, Nicholls and Palmerston. The College operates morning and afternoon bus services between Radford and Canberra South and Gungahlin for Year 1–12 students; registration is via transport@radford.act.edu.au.
Radford College is a day school.
Radford College has a uniform; Radwear operates a second-hand uniform shop through the P&F. A uniform renewal project will introduce a renewed uniform with gender-neutral options and trans-seasonal pieces. Final decisions will be made early in 2025; the renewed uniform will be available in Term 4 2025, officially launched in 2026, with a two-year transition and full adoption by 2028.
Radford College has eight Houses that compete in five major events: swimming, cross-country, athletics, performing arts, and The Bishop's Cup. Houses are named after Australian native plants with colors: Acacia yellow, Banksia white, Boronia red, Huon black, Jarrah purple, Karri dark blue, Kurrajong green, and Wandoo light blue. Students are allocated to a House when they commence and belong there for the duration of their time at the College, with each House led by staff and student Captains.
Radford College is governed by the Radford College Board, consisting of 11 members, which meets up to eight times per year.
Radford College offers a K–12 curriculum with two senior study pathways: the ACT Board of Senior Secondary Studies (BSSS) Tertiary and Accredited Packages and the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP). In Years 7–10, core subjects include English, mathematics, science, history and geography, health and physical education, religious and values education, and languages (Chinese, French, Japanese and Spanish), with a broad elective program. Years 7–8 focus on a broad range of electives and an interdisciplinary learning program, while Years 9–10 offer deeper electives and a Year 10 study-skills unit to prepare for senior study. The IBDP comprises the DP core and six subject groups: studies in language and literature, language acquisition, individuals and societies, sciences, mathematics, and the arts. In Year 11, students enrol in four Higher Level and two Standard Level subjects (with the option to study three HL and three SL from Semester 2); assessment includes internal coursework and external examinations at the end of Year 12, with a maximum IB score of 45 points, equating to access to Australian and international universities.
187 earned an Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR) and 16 students undertook the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme. The Class of 2025 demonstrated leadership and service, including fundraising over $80,000 for blood cancer and mentoring younger students. Full details are published in the Laureate document.
Radford College offers two senior pathways: BSSS Tertiary/Accredited Packages and the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme. The BSSS pathway leads to an ACT Senior Secondary Certificate (ACTSSC) and an ATAR, while the IB Diploma Programme yields the IB Diploma and provides access to Australian and international universities. The IB Diploma maximum is 45 points (including the Extended Essay and Theory of Knowledge), and results are used to support entry to universities.
The Junior School wellbeing program provides explicit teaching of friendship skills and emotional regulation, anti-bullying and cybersafe behaviour, sleep and nutrition, and character strengths. URSTRONG's friendship program and Friendology teach students to resolve conflict, build empathy, and develop respectful friendships.
The Junior School has a dedicated therapy space, Engine Room, for early intervention that closes gaps in development, learning and opportunity for Junior School students needing extra help. Learning support staff are in place across year levels.
Radford College employs qualified counsellors to provide initial support and guidance for children and young people, and has a dedicated Engine Room for early intervention to support mental wellbeing.
Radford College has a Child Safe Statement of Commitment and compliance measures related to the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse. Public Policies include Working with Vulnerable People background checks, Mandatory Reporting, and the Reportable Conduct Scheme; the College maintains a Child Protection Policy and regularly reviews policies to ensure safety and compliance.
Admissions: Radford College is currently fully enrolled in all year levels for 2026. The enrolment process for entry point places (Pre-Kindergarten, Year 3, Year 7 and Year 11) for 2027 will commence in Semester 1 2025. Offers for places in other year levels are only made as vacancies arise. The College holds waitlists for all year levels. Registrations: To register children on the Radford College waitlist, complete and submit the online registration form with a $220 registration fee. If you require enrolment within the next two years, or your child is currently in Year 9 or above, contact the Registrar's office on (02) 6162 6212 for advice before submitting the registration form. The Registrar, Radford College, 1 College Street, Bruce ACT 2617, AUSTRALIA.
Scholarships: Boorer Foundation Scholarship 2027 — One student commencing Year 7 in 2027; 100% of Tuition & Capital Levy (Years 7–12); Up to 100% of additional fees; Applications close Friday, 27 March 2026; Application Form available; Designed for a student who will thrive at Radford and contribute to college life. Radford College Scholarship — For students entering Year 11 in 2027; 100% of Tuition & Capital Levy (Years 11–12); Up to 100% of additional fees; Applications close Friday, 27 March 2026; Applications open for 2027; Designed to recognise talent, potential and commitment while broadening access to a Radford education.
Waitlist: The College holds waitlists for all year levels. To register on the waitlist, complete the online registration form and pay the $220 registration fee. For advice about enrolment within the next two years or if the child is in Year 9 or above, contact the Registrar on (02) 6162 6212.
Canberra Grammar School is located in Canberra, ACT, Australia. The Red Hill campus at 40 Monaro Crescent, Red Hill 2603 houses the Senior School and Red Hill Primary School (Pre-School to Year 6). The Campbell Campus – Northside is in Campbell (33 Blamey Crescent, Campbell 2612) and provides the Northside Primary Campus (Pre-K to Year 2).
Primary School operates across two campuses: Red Hill Campus (Pre-School to Year 6) and Campbell Campus – Northside (Pre-K to Year 2). Senior School is located on the Red Hill campus (Year 7 to 12).
Independent Anglican day and boarding school.
Students from more than 40 nations are represented.
Inclusive Learning Department provides additional learning support.
Australia
Anglican
Boarding at CGS is the only co-educational boarding school in the ACT and welcomes boarders from rural and overseas backgrounds. Boarding is offered for students in Year 7 to Year 12. Boarders receive 24/7 pastoral care from Heads of Boarding, live-in and visiting tutors, a registered nurse and visiting doctor, with on-campus facilities including a common room, kitchen and a dining hall for communal meals.
Uniforms are provided by CGS. The Indigenous Scholars Programme outlines CGS-provided uniform items, including Summer Dress (female), Summer Shirt (male), hats, shoes, socks, jumpers, sport shorts, bathers, polo shirts, house shirt, soft-shell jacket or Canberra coat, tracksuit pants, sports socks, sports bag, school bag, blazer, winter skirt/shirt, tights and tie.
There is a Dining Hall for communal meals with staff on the CGS campus, and a Senior School canteen is available on site.
CGS operates a House system in the Primary School introduced in 2022 with six new Houses (names include Mulleun, Bariny, Dhiriwiri, Namarag, Guginyal and Buru) spanning Kindergarten to Year 2 on Red Hill and Northside campuses; the Houses are named to reflect local flora and fauna with totems and storytelling surrounding their origins.
CGS is a company limited by guarantee governed by a Board of Directors; the Anglican Diocese of Canberra and Goulburn has a visitor role and the Bishop-in-Council appoints a majority of Directors, with the Head of School on the Board; the CGS Foundation supports campus development and scholarships and governance is independent though linked to the Diocese.
IB World School – PYP (Primary), MYP (Candidate in Years 7–9), and IBDP (Years 11–12); NSW Higher School Certificate (HSC) for diverse university pathways. The school integrates the IB framework with the Australian Curriculum. Year 11–12 offers a choice between the IB Diploma Programme and the NSW HSC, and CGS is the only school in Canberra to offer both the IB and HSC.
2023 Year 12 results showed significant improvements in HSC Economics and IBDP Global Politics. IBDP results included 60% of students in the top two bands. The IBDP Dux, Jessica Li, achieved 45/45 (equivalent to an ATAR of 99.95). HSC and IB pathways continued to show strong performance across subjects, with multiple students placing on merit lists; in 2024, over 90% of CGS graduates attend university or further study.
Post School Destinations show offers to universities including University of Canberra (78), Australian National University (72), University of Sydney (58), Macquarie University (33), University of NSW (33), University of Wollongong (32), Monash University (18), University of Newcastle (16), University of Technology Sydney (13), Charles Sturt University (8), Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology (7), Western Sydney University (5), Deakin University (5), and others. The school notes that >90% of CGS graduates choose to attend university or further study.
The Learning Development Team supports all students with evidence-based teaching and learning, with a focus on meeting the needs of gifted and talented students. The team uses universal screening, tracking and a three-tiered intervention model to support diverse learning needs, including gifted and talented students.
The school knows and nurtures students as individuals, focusing on intellectual, spiritual, cultural, social and physical aspirations. Educators, Campus Directors, the Chaplain, the Individual Learning Team and other staff work in partnership with families to help each child reach their full potential. Parental and community partnerships create a strong sense of connectedness and belonging based on shared expectations, values and respectful communication. Knowledge of the child is central; educators forge positive relationships to foster belonging, security and wellbeing, listening to students' feelings and backgrounds. The school challenges learners with curiosity and courage, supports persistence, and encourages learning from mistakes to sustain independent learning. An international perspective is embedded in the program to prepare students to be global citizens in a connected world.
Support for learners with individual needs is delivered through the Individual Learning Team with involvement of Support Services and families. Educators build positive relationships to foster belonging, security and wellbeing. The program emphasises challenging students with curiosity and persistence while supporting learning from mistakes to optimise potential. The school strives to ensure each child can achieve their full potential in partnership with families.
Overseas students receive English as an additional language (EAL) support. The school offers specific EAL assistance to students for whom English is a second language. Counselling and mental health support are available on site through psychologists and counsellors. Overseas admissions include capability and achievement tests to assess language proficiency and course readiness. These supports are part of CGS's approach to welcoming international students.
Mental health support is provided on site through psychologists and counsellors. Support staff, including Campus Directors, the Chaplain and the Individual Learning Team, work to promote wellbeing. The Student Care & Development program emphasises positive self-concept, belonging and security. The Chaplain and support services collaborate with families to support students' emotional and social growth.
The school has a Child Safe Policy and a Child Safe Programme. These safeguarding policies are publicly listed under CGS School Policies. The school commits to safeguarding and promoting the safety, welfare and wellbeing of children and young people.
1. Explore the school. Browse CGS, attend an Open Day or Regional Visit, and contact the Admissions Office for further information. Main entry points are Pre-School (must turn 3 by 30 April in the entry year), Pre-Kindergarten Northside (must turn 4 by 30 April), Kindergarten Red Hill (must turn 5 by 30 April), Year 3 (must turn 8 by 30 April), Year 5 (must turn 10 by 30 April), Year 7 (must turn 12 by 30 April), Year 11 (must turn 16 by 30 April), and any year for boarding.
3. Confirm Continued Interest. Waitlisted families are contacted two years prior to entry to submit a Confirmation of Interest form and to update contact details if needed. If applying within two years of entry, this step may not be required. 4. Letter of Offer. Offers are issued in the order set out in the Admissions Policy and, ultimately, by age at application, as early as 20 months from entry year; remaining places are filled from the waitlist in later months. A place is secured when the Enrolment Contract and School Renewal Charge are paid, but finalisation requires an interview. 5. Interview. Every applicant is interviewed in the year prior to entry; overseas families may be interviewed online and boarders may tour the Boarding House. 6. Enrolment Finalised. Enrolment is finalised after endorsement from the interviewer and signing of the Enrolment Contract; orientation is arranged for calendar-year entrants and induction is provided for other entry times.
2. Submit an online application and join the nominated waitlist with a $220 registration fee. Applicants are added to the waitlist upon submission and receive a Confirmation of Registration email and receipt.
Located on Jerrabomberra Avenue in Narrabundah, Canberra, ACT 2604. The ACT Government's integrated public transport network provides bus and light rail options to access the campus. Walking or cycling to school is encouraged to reduce traffic and improve safety.
Senior secondary college for Years 11 and 12
Senior secondary college; offers ACT Senior Secondary Certificate, International Baccalaureate, and French Baccalaureate
Over 60 countries represented; international atmosphere
Targeted and strong student support over the two-year college program
CLOTHING must be inoffensive and appropriate for a school setting.
The college has a canteen on site. The canteen operates between 9:00am and 2:00pm and supplies a large variety of hot and cold foods, drinks and vegetarian meals. A lunch ordering service is available each morning; profits from canteen sales go to the college and help buy equipment you use.
Governance is via the Narrabundah College Board and the Narrabundah College Parents and Citizens Association; the P&C Constitution provides for community members to be elected to the College Board and to provide for a canteen.
Curriculum Handbook 2026 provides the current course and subject offerings. Narrabundah offers the Australian Senior Secondary Certificate with ATAR, the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme for Years 11–12, and a French Baccalauréat pathway through a French-language stream. The IB Diploma is a two-year program for students aged 16–18, with six subjects (three Higher Level and three Standard Level) plus core components including Extended Essay, CAS and Theory of Knowledge, designed to prepare students for university study. Classes in Year 12 combine ATAR and IB assessment tasks. The French Baccalaureat is taught in French as part of a French-stream pathway.
IB Diploma uses a 45-point scale; a minimum of 24 points is required to be awarded the Diploma; the IB Diploma score is converted to an equivalent ATAR for entry to ACT/NSW/VIC universities and is recognised by Australian universities.
Universities recognise the IB Diploma for entry; the Diploma score can be converted to an ATAR for ACT/NSW/VIC universities; the IB Diploma provides direct and recognised entry to tertiary education both in Australia and worldwide.
Targeted and strong student support is provided over two years. The School Psychologist is available to assist students or their parents with issues that may affect learning, including health problems, family or relationship conflicts and motivational difficulties. The Transition and Careers Officer supports students with transitions from high school, career planning, work experience and post‑college options. N Groups meet weekly to develop study skills, time management and self-care and to help students access available resources. There is an Indigenous Contact Officer available to support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students. International Private Students are supported by the Languages Centre Coordinators who assist with enrolment, course choices and other issues relating to Narrabundah College. If you are worried about academic performance, attendance or other problems, you can speak with a Student Adviser or the Psychologist.
Special education needs are overseen by the Special Needs Committee. The School Psychologist provides support to students and parents for issues that may affect learning, including health problems, family or relationship conflicts and motivational difficulties. The Transition and Careers Officer and Student Advisers offer academic and personal support as part of the college's SEN framework. N Groups meet weekly to build study skills and self-care. Indigenous Contact Officer provides support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students. International Private Students' coordinators in the Languages Centre assist with enrolment and course choices.
ESL – English as an Additional Language units are offered within English and Literature, including ESL (AC) 1.0 unit from English/Literature. ESL is integrated into English/Literature courses, with ESL/English combinations forming integrated courses. The college offers seven languages and encourages language study. International Private Students are supported by Languages Centre coordinators who assist with enrolment and course choices.
The School Psychologist is available to assist students or their parents with issues that may impact learning. If you are worried about academic performance, attendance or other problems, you can speak with a Student Adviser or the Psychologist. N Groups meet weekly to support study skills, time management and self-care. Mental health crisis resources are listed, including Headspace, Lifeline and other services for crisis support (phone numbers and online options are provided).
Your Welfare indicates that if you are worried about academic performance, attendance or other problems you should see a Student Adviser or the Psychologist. The School Psychologist and Student Advisers are available to support safeguarding needs. N Groups provide ongoing self-care and access to resources. There is an Indigenous Contact Officer available to support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students. International Private Students are supported by Languages Centre coordinators with enrolment and course choices. The college also uses a mediation pathway for resolving student concerns, including Student Mediation and meetings with Parents/Carers to address issues.
The school enrolls students living in its Priority Enrolment Area. The ACT Education Directorate provides online enrolment and key dates for applicants. For the IB Diploma Programme, enrolment must be lodged with the ACT Education Directorate (enrolling in an ACT School) and the IB Application Form must be completed and returned by the Directorate's due dates.
Music Scholarship through auditions in March each year.
Wise Street, Braddon ACT 2612, Canberra. The school is in the Braddon suburb near Canberra's city centre. It is served by four dedicated bus services to South Canberra, Inner South Canberra and West Belconnen.
Merici College educates young women in Years 7 to 12.
Catholic secondary school for girls.
Australia
Catholic
Merici College operates four dedicated bus services to South Canberra, Inner South Canberra and West Belconnen.
Merici College operates a uniform shop on site; uniform items are supplied by PSW. The uniform policy requires hair to be tidy, makeup to be discreet, neutral nail polish, and limited jewellery (a simple ring, a bracelet, and small stud earrings); ribbons and scarves must be in school colours. A new uniform transition has been completed and pre-2020 items are void.
Canteen facilities are available to staff and students before school, at recess and lunch times, with a focus on healthy and nutritious snacks, meals and drinks. Charge cards are distributed to students and can be topped up online to pay for canteen purchases. Bridge Restaurant provides a student-driven al a carte dining experience and is open to the public on Wednesdays and during lunch times; bookings are online.
The school has six College Houses. House Days align with relevant feast and memorial days, providing opportunities for each House to celebrate its founding Order.
The school is owned by the Catholic Archdiocese of Canberra and Goulburn Education Limited.
The school is an IB World School offering the IB Middle Years Programme and the IB Diploma Programme. Years 7–10 follow the Australian Curriculum using the IB MYP framework; Years 11–12 may pursue the ACT BSSS Pathway or the IB Diploma Programme.
Total teaching staff: 70; total students: 905 in 2024; student-teacher ratio about 12.9:1 (approximately 13:1).
Year 12 2025 Academic Achievements: 100% of graduates received their Year 12 ACT Senior Secondary Certificate or IB Diploma; 64% completed a Tertiary Package and received an ATAR; 36% completed Accredited Packages (including vocational qualifications); median ATAR 83.8; 30% of students achieved an ATAR over 90; 60% over 80; 90% over 70; 100% over 60; Merici College is proudly the highest ranked Catholic school in the ACT for Year 12 2025 results, for the fourth year in a row.
2025 Year 12 outcomes: 100% completed the Year 12 certificate or IB Diploma; 64% completed a Tertiary Package with ATAR; 36% completed Accredited Packages.
Gifted and Talented and Academic Extension uses Gagné's Differentiated Model of Giftedness and Talent. Identification occurs via testing; extension opportunities exist in English and Mathematics (including fast-paced English and 9A/10A Maths, fast-paced Science); students may participate in Da Vinci Decathlon, ACT Debating, English writing competitions and Mathematics/Science competitions. Year 7 entry testing assesses aptitude in quantitative, verbal and non‑verbal reasoning; identified students may receive a Personalised Plan or other adjustments; a Gifted and Talented Policy governs identification and adjustments, including acceleration when appropriate.
Pastoral Care operates through the House system and the Student Success Program to support students' academic and personal growth. The program identifies learning needs, provides study-skills support, and links students to resources to improve outcomes. Merici College has a School Counsellor team that focuses on the emotional, social and educational wellbeing of students; Counsellors offer individual sessions, work with families and teachers, and refer to specialist services when appropriate. A Defence School Mentor supports Defence families with mentoring, personal and social wellbeing. The College emphasises wellbeing as part of its mission, with restorative and relationship-based practices informing its approach to student support.
Merici College identifies and supports students with disability through the Inclusive Education team. The Inclusive Education Coordinator supports staff and students to remove barriers to learning, and the Head of IB liaises with the Inclusive Education Coordinator to ensure inclusive education. The school uses a range of assessments and diagnostic tools to identify additional learning needs and to plan appropriate supports. Reasonable adjustments are made to enable access to the curriculum and participation in school life for students with disabilities. All Years 7-10 students study an additional language to English, and multilingualism is supported as part of inclusive practice.
English is the language of instruction. The curriculum supports students for whom English is not their best or first language, with additional support where needed. Merici College values multilingualism and learning diversity. All students attending Merici College in Years 7-10 will study an additional language to English in line with IB policies.
The School Counsellor team focuses on the emotional, social and educational wellbeing of Merici students. Counsellors provide individual sessions, group work, and family consultation, and may refer students and families to specialist services when appropriate. Typical concerns include depression, anxiety, fears, anger, family conflict, self-harm, loss and grief, peer relationships, stress, and trauma; Counsellors are available during the week and can be engaged via the pastoral care process. The Pastoral Care system and Student Success Program support students' holistic development and timely intervention when needed.
Merici College complies with Child Safe Standards and has a Child Safety Policy outlining safeguarding commitments. The safeguarding approach involves staff, students and families in a web of practices, and includes clear processes for raising concerns or complaints and for engaging with external agencies when required. Concerns and complaints can be raised and are handled fairly, confidentially and promptly under published policies; the Principal or a designated senior officer may resolve more complex matters, with escalation to the Catholic Education Office when appropriate. The College's safeguarding framework is supported by the Statements of Practice, including Pastoral Care & Wellbeing, and a formal Complaints Management process.
1. Enrolment Pack is available from the Catholic Education enrolments page. Merici College is currently accepting online enrolments. For queries, contact the Enrolment Officer at 02 6243 4150.
2. Enrolment forms and information can be downloaded from the Catholic Education enrolments page, and the online enrolment submission is currently open.
3. Attend information events to learn about Merici and the enrolment process. Talk & Tours are offered on several dates in 2026 with the Principal and current students leading tours; Open Day is on 6 May 2026, and there are Year 7 2027 and Year 11 2027 Information Evenings as part of the enrolment program.
4. Register your interest to stay updated and participate in enrolment events. Families are encouraged to register their interest for enrolment for 2026 and beyond online; information about events will be communicated accordingly.
Merici College has a range of scholarships available to support the talents and educational achievements of our girls. We currently have scholarships available for Year 7 students, Year 12 Vocational Education and Training Scholarship for current Year 11 students, and Scholarships for current Year 10 Students and future Year 11/12 Students.