Is St Columba a “church” school?
St Columba was set up under the auspices of the Anglican Diocese of Grafton. It maintains strong links with the local Anglican churches and the Diocese, while operating under the governance of its own School Council. Christian studies and regular worship are a part of life at St Columba, but member ship of a particular congregation or church are not an essential criteria for enrolment. We do require that all members of the community respect the Christian / Anglican traditions of the school
When is the best time to enroll my child?
St Columba accepts enrolments at any stage of a child’s education and at any time of the year.
While the majority of enrolment enquiries occur in the terms leading up to the next school year, many families choose to enroll their children during the year. Our enrolment process makes every effort to ensure that children are quickly and happily integrated into the School community.
Does SCAS accelerate students?
All our students are dealt with according to their individual needs and aspirations. Many students take advantage of the wide range of extension activities offered by our faculties. Where it is obvious that a student will be happier and perform more effectively by being accelerated beyond their normal cohort, we make every effort to meet this need.
What experience do the teachers at St Columba have?
St Columba has been fortunate to attract exceptional teachers. Attracted by the wonderful local lifestyle and stimulated by the challenges of working in a high performing school, many of our staff have come to us from prestigious independent schools throughout Australia. Our mixture of experience and enthusiasm has served us very well academically, culturally and in sport.
How big will SCAS become?
Under the masterplan St Columba has the capacity to develop its enrolment to over eleven hundred.
What is the difference between SCAS and other local schools?
St Columba is an independent school. This means that it is able to plan and make decisions to the benefit of its school community without reference to any form of “head office”. We are a school that proudly and clearly states its aspirations and expectations.
Who do I talk to if I have concerns about my child?
Contact with staff can be by phone, internet or personal interview. If you are unsure of which staff member will be best to speak to, please contact our office and our staff will assist you in making contact with the person best suited to assist you.
How will I know what is happening at the school?
At St Columba we value communication with our families. Our diary allows written communication and our regular newsletters and website are ways parents can keep up to date with the many activities of the school. St Columba sends out eNews weekly to keep you intouch with the lastest events.
Does St Columba have a full range of subject choices?
St Columba offers an amazingly diverse range of subjects. Despite our relatively small size we are able to offer subjects that cover the whole gamut of student interests.
When do students get to choose their electives?
Electives are chosen for Stage 5 (Years 9 & 10) and Stage 6 (Years 11 & 12). Before that our wide range co-curricular activities offer our students the opportunity to explore and develop their talents.
How important is pastoral care at St Columba?
The provision of a safe and happy learning environment is one of our primary aims. We stress positive relationships between all members of our community and believe that we offer an environment that enables each student to learn, knowing they are cared for and valued.
How far can my child go in representative sport at St Columba?
St Columba is a member of the Hunter Region Independent Schools sporting group. This gives successful sportspeople access to Combined Independent Schools , All Schools, State and finally, national representative opportunities
How big are SCAS classes?
Classes at St Columba range in size, depending on the needs of the students and the demand for the subject. Any decisions in regard to class sizes are always based on providing optimal educational opportunities and the integrity of the learning environment. Wherever possible St Columba seeks to maintain relatively low class numbers.
When is the swimming pool going to be built?
One of the most common questions asked by new students! The swimming pool is included as one of the final stages of the masterplan for campus development. At this time, we are unable to give a date for commencement of this project.