Carey Baptist Grammar School vs Presbyterian Ladies' College Melbourne

	C Carey Baptist Grammar School Melbourne, Australia	P Presbyterian Ladies' College Melbourne Melbourne, Australia
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year A$200 - 50,784	Fees / year A$27,960 - 43,420
Age range	Age range 3 - 18 years	Age range 0 - 18 years
Type	Type Co-educational	Type Girls School, Girls School (boarding)
Curriculum	Curriculum IB (DP), Australian Curriculum	Curriculum IB (DP), Australian Curriculum
Pupils	Pupils 2,344	Pupils 1,550
Typical class size	Typical class size 22	Typical class size —
Instruction language	Instruction language English	Instruction language English
Opened	Opened 1923	Opened 1875
Bus service	Bus service No	Bus service No
Essentials	Essentials
Location	Location Carey Baptist Grammar School operates across two Melbourne campuses: Kew (ELC–Year 12) at 349 Barkers Road, Kew VIC 3101, and Donvale (ELC–Year 6) at 9 Era Court, Donvale VIC 3111. The Kew campus sits in Melbourne's leafy eastern suburbs, about 8 kilometres from the CBD. It is accessible by public transport and private school bus routes. Carey also uses the Bulleen Sports Complex and outdoor education sites such as Camp Toonallook (Banksia Peninsula) and Mission Beach for Carey Zero.	Location 141 Burwood Highway, Burwood, Victoria 3125, Australia
Stages	Stages Kew campus: Early Learning Centre, Junior School (Prep–Year 6), Middle School (Years 7–9), Senior School (Years 10–12). Donvale campus: Early Learning to Year 6.	Stages Early Learning to Year 12
School type	School type independent co-educational day school	School type Independent day and boarding school for girls
Pupil nationality mix	Pupil nationality mix —	Pupil nationality mix —
Additional learning support	Additional learning support Learning Development staff support any student who has a genuine difficulty with their learning, including literacy and numeracy.	Additional learning support —
Country affiliation	Country affiliation Australia	Country affiliation Australia
Religious affiliation	Religious affiliation Baptist	Religious affiliation Presbyterian (Christian)
School day structure	School day structure Classes start at 8.20am. Daily timetable includes Period 1 (8.20am–9.35am), Period 2 (9.40am–10.55am), Recess (10.55am–11.15am), Period 3 (11.20am–12.35pm), Community Time (12.40pm–1.05pm), Lunch (1.05pm–1.45pm), Period 4 (1.50pm–3.05pm). Co-curricular activities run after official classes on most days (roughly 3.05pm–5.00pm).	School day structure —
Bus service details	Bus service details Private school bus routes are available; the Kew campus is accessible by public transport and private bus routes.	Bus service details —
Fees	Fees
Fee details	Fee details Application and enrolment fees - Application fee: AUD 200 per student (payable when submitting an application; non-refundable and non-transferable). - Enrolment fee (on offer): AUD 1,800 per student to confirm enrolment (non-refundable and non-transferable). - Tuition deposit: AUD 2,000 payable on entry into three- and four-year-old Kindergarten, Preparatory, Year 5 and Year 7; this deposit is credited to the April school fee account in the nominated year (or to the Prep year account for Kindergarten entrants) and is non-refundable and non-transferable. Tuition fees and compulsory annual charges by year group (local students) — annual totals and per-term amounts Notes: Compulsory Fees comprise the Tuition Fee plus the Consolidated Fee (and any taxable portion of that fee), the Digital Device Rental (where applicable) and State Tax & Surcharges. Compulsory Fees (ELC–Year 11 and Years Prep–11) are billed in four equal instalments; Year 12 tuition and State Tax & Surcharges are billed over three instalments and Year 12 Consolidated Fee / Digital Device Rental are billed over two instalments (50% in January and 50% in April). All figures in Australian dollars. - Preparatory — Tuition: AUD 27,560; Consolidated Fee: AUD 684; Digital Device Rental: AUD 150; State Tax & Surcharges: AUD 1,760. Compulsory annual total: AUD 30,154. Per term (four instalments): AUD 7,538.50. - Year 1 — Tuition: AUD 32,576; Consolidated Fee: AUD 900; Digital Device Rental: AUD 360; State Tax & Surcharges: AUD 1,760. Compulsory annual total: AUD 35,596. Per term: AUD 8,899.00. - Year 2 — Tuition: AUD 32,576; Consolidated Fee: AUD 880; Consolidated Fee (taxable supply): AUD 16; Digital Device Rental: AUD 360; State Tax & Surcharges: AUD 1,760. Compulsory annual total: AUD 35,592. Per term: AUD 8,898.00. - Year 3 — Tuition: AUD 32,576; Consolidated Fee: AUD 1,228; Consolidated Fee (taxable supply): AUD 56; Digital Device Rental: AUD 360; State Tax & Surcharges: AUD 1,760. Compulsory annual total: AUD 35,980. Per term: AUD 8,995.00. - Year 4 — Tuition: AUD 36,344; Consolidated Fee: AUD 1,420; Consolidated Fee (taxable supply): AUD 60; Digital Device Rental: AUD 700; State Tax & Surcharges: AUD 1,760. Compulsory annual total: AUD 40,284. Per term: AUD 10,071.00. - Year 5 — Tuition: AUD 36,344; Consolidated Fee: AUD 1,748; Consolidated Fee (taxable supply): AUD 84; Digital Device Rental: AUD 620; State Tax & Surcharges: AUD 1,760. Compulsory annual total: AUD 40,556. Per term: AUD 10,139.00. - Year 6 — Tuition: AUD 36,344; Consolidated Fee: AUD 2,048; Consolidated Fee (taxable supply): AUD 332; Digital Device Rental: AUD 668; State Tax & Surcharges: AUD 1,760. Compulsory annual total: AUD 41,152. Per term: AUD 10,288.00. - Year 7 — Tuition: AUD 39,716; Consolidated Fee: AUD 1,900; Consolidated Fee (taxable supply): AUD 188; Digital Device Rental: AUD 920; State Tax & Surcharges: AUD 1,760. Compulsory annual total: AUD 44,484. Per term: AUD 11,121.00. - Year 8 — Tuition: AUD 41,276; Consolidated Fee: AUD 2,420; Consolidated Fee (taxable supply): AUD 360; Digital Device Rental: AUD 900; State Tax & Surcharges: AUD 1,760. Compulsory annual total: AUD 46,716. Per term: AUD 11,679.00. - Year 9 — Tuition: AUD 41,276; Consolidated Fee: AUD 2,200; Consolidated Fee (taxable supply): AUD 148; Digital Device Rental: AUD 880; State Tax & Surcharges: AUD 1,760. Compulsory annual total: AUD 46,264. Per term: AUD 11,566.00. - Year 10 — Tuition: AUD 41,276; Consolidated Fee: AUD 6,200 (includes Carey Zero program); Consolidated Fee (taxable supply): AUD 628; Digital Device Rental: AUD 920 (HP) or AUD 900 (Mac); State Tax & Surcharges: AUD 1,760. Compulsory annual total: approximately AUD 50,784 (using HP device) or AUD 50,764 (using Mac). Per term (four instalments): approximately AUD 12,696.00 (HP) or AUD 12,691.00 (Mac). - Year 11 — Tuition: AUD 42,660; Consolidated Fee: AUD 1,096; Consolidated Fee (taxable supply): AUD 0; Digital Device Rental: AUD 900 (HP) or AUD 1,132 (Mac); State Tax & Surcharges: AUD 1,760. Compulsory annual total: AUD 46,416 (HP) or AUD 46,648 (Mac). Per term: AUD 11,604.00 (HP) or AUD 11,662.00 (Mac). - Year 12 — Tuition: AUD 42,660; Consolidated Fee: AUD 1,098; Digital Device Rental: AUD 880 (HP) or AUD 1,128 (Mac); State Tax & Surcharges: AUD 1,760. Total compulsory annual amounts: AUD 46,398 (HP) or AUD 46,646 (Mac). Billing for Year 12 differs: - Tuition and State Tax & Surcharges are billed in advance over three instalments (October, January, April). Example: tuition + state tax (AUD 42,660 + AUD 1,760 = AUD 44,420) divided by three = AUD 14,806.67 per instalment. - Consolidated Fee and Digital Device Rental are billed over two accounts (50% in January and 50% in April). Example: Consolidated Fee AUD 1,098 → AUD 549 in January and AUD 549 in April; Device rental (HP AUD 880) → AUD 440 in January and AUD 440 in April. Early Learning Centre (ELC) — Kew campus (annual total and per-term amounts) - Three-year-old group — Two full days: Tuition AUD 13,500; State Tax & Surcharges AUD 704. Compulsory annual total AUD 14,204. Per term (four instalments): AUD 3,551.00. - Three-year-old group — Three full days: Tuition AUD 20,260; State Tax & Surcharges AUD 1,056. Compulsory annual total AUD 21,316. Per term: AUD 5,329.00. - Four-year-old group — Three full days: Tuition AUD 20,260; State Tax & Surcharges AUD 1,056. Compulsory annual total AUD 21,316. Per term: AUD 5,329.00. - Four-year-old group — Four full days: Tuition AUD 27,020; State Tax & Surcharges AUD 1,408. Compulsory annual total AUD 28,428. Per term: AUD 7,107.00. - Five full days: Tuition AUD 33,776; State Tax & Surcharges AUD 1,760. Compulsory annual total AUD 35,536. Per term: AUD 8,884.00. Early Learning Centre (ELC) — Donvale campus (annual total and per-term amounts) - Two full days: Tuition AUD 11,792; State Tax & Surcharges AUD 704. Compulsory annual total AUD 12,496. Per term: AUD 3,124.00. - Three full days: Tuition AUD 17,692; State Tax & Surcharges AUD 1,056. Compulsory annual total AUD 18,748. Per term: AUD 4,687.00. - Four full days: Tuition AUD 23,596; State Tax & Surcharges AUD 1,408. Compulsory annual total AUD 25,004. Per term: AUD 6,251.00. - Five full days: Tuition AUD 29,496; State Tax & Surcharges AUD 1,760. Compulsory annual total AUD 31,256. Per term: AUD 7,814.00. Billing schedule and payment terms - Standard billing: Compulsory Fees (ELC–Year 11 and Prep–Year 11) are issued in four equal instalments (October, January, April and July accounts) with payment due dates typically about one month after the account is emailed. Year 12 Tuition and State Tax & Surcharges are billed over three instalments (October, January and April); Year 12 Consolidated Fee and Digital Device Rental are billed over two instalments (50% in January and 50% in April). Specific invoice issue dates and due dates are listed in the school fee schedule and the school calendar. Late fee: Fees not paid by the due date incur a non-reversible late fee of AUD 125. For ongoing payment-plan arrangements, the school recommends (and provides contact details for) an external school-fee management service (Edstart). Withdrawal, cancellation and refund information - Enrolment fee and tuition deposit are non-refundable and non-transferable. A tuition deposit that is not applied (if the student does not commence in the nominated year) is forfeited. Cancelled or deferred enrolments forfeit the tuition deposit. - Withdrawal: One term's written notice to the Admissions Office is required for permanent withdrawal. If the required notice is not received, a fee equivalent to one half of a term's fee is payable. Specific notification deadlines for intended leaving dates are set out in the Fee Schedule. Other costs and typical additional charges - School uniform (compulsory Prep–Year 12): indicative cost for a new uniform AUD 900–1,000 (second-hand uniform options are available). - School books: up to about AUD 450 per annum (booklists published annually). - Additional/optional charges: items outside the standard program are charged separately, for example individual music tuition, participation in rowing, selective trips and camps, elective excursions, unreturned library books and similar extras. Student travel insurance for excursions more than 100 km from the Kew campus is included in fees; other insurances (personal items, instruments) are the family's responsibility. - Family discount: Families with three or more siblings concurrently full-time from four‑year‑old Kindergarten to Year 12 are eligible for a 20% discount on Tuition Fees only for the third and subsequent students. Fee payment options - Cash payments are not accepted. Preferred payment method: BPAY (Biller Code 3418; use your account number as the reference). Cheques accepted (payable to Carey Baptist Grammar School Ltd) with account number noted on the back. Credit card payments (Mastercard, Visa, UnionPay and American Express) can be made in person at the Accounts Office (over‑the‑counter payments incur a surcharge); credit card payments cannot be accepted by phone, email or by written authority. Online American Express payments are supported via the school's Amex payment portal. Direct Debit arrangements can be organised through the Accounts Office (fees are normally deducted approximately 10 days prior to each due date). For payment-plan assistance (Edstart) or any billing enquiries contact the school Accounts/Fees Office. Late-payment recovery may include reasonable recovery steps up to legal action as per the Enrolment Terms and Conditions.	Fee details Application & enrolment fees - Application fee (Prep to Year 12 and international applications): AUD 150 (non‑refundable). - Acceptance / Enrolment fee payable on acceptance of an offer: AUD 1,500 (non‑refundable and non‑transferable). A holding deposit is charged one year prior to commencement for Prep, Year 5 and Year 7; the holding deposit is credited back to school fees in Term 2 of the year the student commences. Early Learning Centre (ELC) — tuition - ELC School Term Program (2026 rates): - 5 days: AUD 29,908 per annum. - 4 days: AUD 23,926 per annum. - 3 days: AUD 17,945 per annum. - 48‑week program rates: Per day (part‑time) AUD 191; Per week AUD 917. - ELC invoicing: fees are billed every two weeks, payable on receipt of the invoice; direct debit or credit card preferred; BPAY also accepted. Child Care Subsidy is available to eligible Australian residents who register with Centrelink. Tuition fees by Year level (per term and per annum, 2026 domestic student schedule) - Prep: Tuition per term AUD 6,243 / per annum AUD 24,972. Consolidated Levy per term AUD 747 / per annum AUD 2,988. Total per term AUD 6,990 / per annum AUD 27,960. - Year 1: Tuition per term AUD 6,243 / per annum AUD 24,972. Consolidated Levy per term AUD 747 / per annum AUD 2,988. Total per term AUD 6,990 / per annum AUD 27,960. - Year 2: Tuition per term AUD 6,243 / per annum AUD 24,972. Consolidated Levy per term AUD 747 / per annum AUD 2,988. Total per term AUD 6,990 / per annum AUD 27,960. - Year 3: Tuition per term AUD 6,812 / per annum AUD 27,248. Consolidated Levy per term AUD 747 / per annum AUD 2,988. Total per term AUD 7,559 / per annum AUD 30,236. - Year 4: Tuition per term AUD 7,593 / per annum AUD 30,372. Consolidated Levy per term AUD 747 / per annum AUD 2,988. Total per term AUD 8,340 / per annum AUD 33,360. - Year 5: Tuition per term AUD 8,274 / per annum AUD 33,096. Consolidated Levy per term AUD 747 / per annum AUD 2,988. Total per term AUD 9,021 / per annum AUD 36,084. - Year 6: Tuition per term AUD 8,274 / per annum AUD 33,096. Consolidated Levy per term AUD 747 / per annum AUD 2,988. Total per term AUD 9,021 / per annum AUD 36,084. - Year 7: Tuition per term AUD 9,065 / per annum AUD 36,260. Consolidated Levy per term AUD 1,039 / per annum AUD 4,156. Total per term AUD 10,104 / per annum AUD 40,416. - Year 8: Tuition per term AUD 9,065 / per annum AUD 36,260. Consolidated Levy per term AUD 1,039 / per annum AUD 4,156. Total per term AUD 10,104 / per annum AUD 40,416. - Year 9: Tuition per term AUD 9,065 / per annum AUD 36,260. Consolidated Levy per term AUD 1,039 / per annum AUD 4,156. Total per term AUD 10,104 / per annum AUD 40,416. - Year 10: Tuition per term AUD 10,000 / per annum AUD 40,000. Consolidated Levy per term AUD 855 / per annum AUD 3,420. Total per term AUD 10,855 / per annum AUD 43,420. - Year 11: Tuition per term AUD 10,000 / per annum AUD 40,000. Consolidated Levy per term AUD 855 / per annum AUD 3,420. Total per term AUD 10,855 / per annum AUD 43,420. - Year 12: Tuition per term AUD 10,000 / per annum AUD 40,000. Consolidated Levy per term AUD 855 / per annum AUD 3,420. Total per term AUD 10,855 / per annum AUD 43,420. - Boarding (where applicable): Boarding fees per term AUD 9,197 / per annum AUD 36,788. - Note: the Consolidated Levy varies by year level, reflects resources/programs (including Outdoor Education) and payroll tax contributions, and is non‑refundable. Tuition, Consolidated Levy and Boarding Fees are charged one term in advance (ELC invoicing follows its separate schedule). Billing schedule & payment terms - Standard billing: Tuition, Consolidated Levy and Boarding Fees are invoiced one term in advance; ELC is invoiced fortnightly (after service) and payment is due on receipt of each invoice. - 2026 example billing dates (approximate): - Term 1 fees issued Fri 10 Oct 2025; due Fri 31 Oct 2025. - Term 2 fees issued Fri 13 Feb 2026; due Fri 6 Mar 2026. - Term 3 fees issued Fri 1 May 2026; due Fri 22 May 2026. - Term 4 fees issued Fri 24 Jul 2026; due Fri 14 Aug 2026. Fees are due within 21 days of receiving the account. A late fee of AUD 125 applies to accounts unpaid after 21 days. If fees are not paid within 62 days of issue, the student cannot continue at the College under the Terms and Conditions of Enrolment. Boarding fees & what is included - Boarding fees (per term AUD 9,197 / per annum AUD 36,788). Boarding fees cover accommodation and meals during term time, two home visits each year by the College (additional visits incur extra cost), and staying in the Boarding House during mid‑term breaks. GST is included on some items within the Boarding Fees. Other compulsory and common additional costs - Consolidated Levy (listed above) is compulsory and non‑refundable; it covers programs and resources including most Outdoor Education costs that the College pays upfront. - School bus charges (per term, 2026 zones): - Zone A: Part time AUD 483 / Full time AUD 852. - Zone B: Part time AUD 543 / Full time AUD 938. - Zone C: Part time AUD 616 / Full time AUD 987. - Casual trips: AUD 12.50 each. - Music program charges (per semester, sample items): - Instrumental lessons 30 minutes: AUD 940; 40 minutes: AUD 1,220; 50 minutes: AUD 1,525. - Shared lessons: AUD 550; Instrument hire: AUD 180; Music theory and speech lesson fees also apply. - Uniform and associated costs: the PLC Uniform and Stationery Shop supplies uniform items, bags and crested goods; example price ranges (indicative) include dresses AUD ~55–62, jumpers AUD ~63–68, blazers AUD ~160–180, polo/house shirts AUD ~25–38, track tops AUD ~55–60, and other items sold or available second‑hand. Families should budget separately for full uniform purchase, seasonal replacements and footwear. - Other possible additional costs: optional co‑curricular activities, excursions beyond those covered by the Consolidated Levy, some external examinations, special camps or extra home‑visit costs for boarding beyond the two included visits, and any individual tuition or charges (e.g., extra music lessons, instrument hire). These charges appear as separate line items on student accounts. Refunds & non‑refundable items - The Consolidated Levy is not refundable. The Acceptance / Enrolment fee (AUD 1,500) is non‑refundable and non‑transferable. Holding deposits for specified intake years are credited back to school fees in Term 2 of the student's commencement year. Specific refund entitlements and conditions are governed by the College's Terms and Conditions of Enrolment. Fee concessions & sibling discount - A 10% sibling discount is applied to the basic annual tuition fee for younger sisters while an older sister attends PLC, subject to conditions (the discount does not apply if any student in the family is already receiving another fee discount or scholarship, and it does not apply to children attending the ELC). Accepted payment methods and surcharges - Preferred payment method: BPAY (PLC biller code 58800; unique BPAY reference provided on fee notices). WYSE is used for accessing fee statements and payments. Direct debit and credit card payments are accepted; MasterCard, Visa and American Express are accepted. Cash is not accepted for fee payments. Credit or debit card payments incur a surcharge that equals PLC's transaction cost. When paying through WYSE, credit card details are handled securely by National Australia Bank. Important final notes on timing and changes - The College reserves the right to amend fees and terms; parents are given one term's notice of any changes to Terms and Conditions or fees. Council sets ELC and future year fees at specified times (for example, ELC 2027 fees are set in October 2026). Families are invoiced according to the published billing schedule for each year.
Diving deeper	Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements	Boarding arrangements —	Boarding arrangements Boarding is provided in Koorinya, PLC's Boarding House on the Burwood campus, housing up to 90 girls in Years 7 to 12. Boarders have access to campus facilities and dedicated study spaces, with staff available around the clock. Years 7–9 boarders may share rooms; Years 10–12 have individual bedrooms. Meals are prepared on site in the Boarding House kitchen with options reflecting Western and Asian cuisines, and dietary requirements are catered for.
Uniform requirement	Uniform requirement Carey uses a formal uniform worn by all students across Junior, Middle and Senior Schools; all uniform items must be Carey branded. New uniform items are purchased from Bob Stewart in Kew; second-hand items are available from the Swap Shop on the Kew campus. The uniform has a summer and winter range, includes a blazer for Years 3–12, and a Carey backpack is mandatory for Prep to Year 10.	Uniform requirement The PLC Uniform Shop offers uniforms, school bags, accessories, stationery and crested goods. A new uniform collection was launched in 2023.
Food options	Food options An on-site canteen serves a range of foods from snacks and beverages to full meals, with the Canteen open 8:00am–3:30pm. The menu includes pasta, Asian dishes and rice options, and there is a large covered Quadrangle adjacent to the Canteen for eating and socialising.	Food options Meals are prepared on site in the Boarding House kitchen, reflecting Western and Asian cuisines. The main evening meal typically includes two meat dishes, a vegetarian option, vegetables and salads and a dessert; breakfast includes cereals, toast, yoghurt, fruit juice and a hot option; morning tea and lunch offer a range of choices with dietary requirements catered for.
House system	House system The Middle and Senior School operates a House system with 10 Houses; each House has five House Mentors to support students' welfare and progress.	House system Junior School has four houses: Hethersett (blue), Koorinya (silver), Woollahra (yellow) and Wyselaskie (pink). Senior School uses a separate house system; the House system was introduced in 1929 and the houses are named after Scottish castles.
Governance and ownership	Governance and ownership The Carey Board governs the School; it comprises independent non-executive directors who oversee governance, management and strategic direction. The Constitution governs the Board, and Carey Baptist Grammar School Limited is the corporate entity behind the School.	Governance and ownership PLC Melbourne is a not-for-profit public company limited by guarantee, operating under its Constitution in connection with the Presbyterian Church of Victoria as a charity with educational purposes. The PLC Council has seventeen voluntary members and oversees the College's strategic direction and financial stewardship, with the Principal as an ex officio non-voting member.
Academics	Academics
Curriculum details	Curriculum details Carey offers a continuous learning program from Early Learning to Year 12 across its Kew and Donvale campuses. The Junior School uses an inquiry-based approach to learning within a tailored curriculum, with Donvale campus characterized by small class sizes and Kew by cross-age learning and strong facilities. In Year 10, students build on prior learning and select from a wide range of subjects to guide Years 11 and 12. In Years 11 and 12, students can study the International Baccalaureate Diploma or the Victorian Certificate of Education, with over 30 Year 11 subjects and around 40 Year 12 subjects. The Senior School emphasizes wellbeing and co-curricular opportunities and includes a University Extension program offering subjects from La Trobe University, RMIT and the University of Melbourne. Talent Development supports highly able students through curriculum differentiation and extension.	Curriculum details The school provides a connected learning journey from Early Learning Centre to Year 12 on a single-site campus. Across every age and stage, the curriculum balances academic excellence with creativity, character and care. Focused learning is delivered through explicit teaching, with individual learning pathways and structured progression that guide increasing independence and leadership. Cross-age connections are fostered through a House system, student-led clubs and cross-year mentoring, complemented by integrated wellbeing programs such as Empowered Changemakers, Wellness in Motion and Faith in Life. The school prepares girls for life after school through a holistic approach, with graduate outcomes defined as Scholar, Thinker, Citizen, Advocate and Leader.
Student teacher ratio	Student teacher ratio —	Student teacher ratio —
Exam results	Exam results Class of 2025 combined IB and VCE results show 15 students achieved ATAR 99+ (top 1% of the state), 8% achieved 98+ and 21% achieved 95+; 40% achieved 90+ and 64% achieved 80+ with a median ATAR of 86; 36 students received early offers. IB results highlights include an average IB score of 37, with 68% of subject scores at 6 or 7 and six students awarded a Bilingual Diploma; 48% of IB students achieved ATAR 95+ and 98% achieved ATAR 80+. VCE results highlights include 12% ATAR 95+ and 54% ATAR 80+, with five perfect study scores and 15 VCE students awarded the VCE Baccalaureate.	Exam results —
Higher education progression	Higher education progression The University Extension program is open to Year 12 students and offers additional study through La Trobe University, RMIT and the University of Melbourne to extend beyond the standard IB or VCE program. Benefits include an ATAR increase of up to 5.5 points, greater access to tertiary opportunities and accelerated pathways.	Higher education progression The school offers both the Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE) and International Baccalaureate (IB) pathways and publishes results for these programs. Graduate outcomes are defined as Scholar, Thinker, Citizen, Advocate and Leader. The College maintains relationships with tertiary institutions, notably Melbourne and Monash Universities, and provides Higher Education Studies (University Extension) for academically gifted students.
Gifted and talented	Gifted and talented Talent Development at Carey encourages students to think and research and provides extension within the curriculum to support highly able learners, including differentiated learning in the classroom and targeted opportunities as part of the school's Learning Development framework.	Gifted and talented Programs for academically gifted students are offered throughout PLC, with opportunities to explore interests and talents beyond the curriculum through extension studies and co-curricular activities. Extension programs include competitions and activities such as da Vinci Decathlon, Tournament of Minds, and Future Problem Solving.
Academic calendar	Academic calendar —	Academic calendar —
Wellbeing & support	Wellbeing & support
Social & emotional learning	Social & emotional learning The school has a holistic wellbeing approach with wellbeing fully integrated into the learning journey, including active pastoral care, accessible student development support, and a team of qualified mental health professionals available for students.	Social & emotional learning The school has a pastoral program embedded across the College. The pastoral program includes age-appropriate education and information sessions for students to understand, identify, discuss and report child safety matters, and to develop resilience, self-identity, leadership and healthy relationships. Assemblies promote student voice and leadership, with committees giving students a say in school life. The College has a zero tolerance for bullying and harassment and runs policies and programs to mitigate these behaviours, including online safety guidance and consent education delivered from Years 5 to 12. The College is committed to diversity and equity, supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students, students with a disability, students from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, and LGBTQIA+ students through inclusive practices.
Special educational needs (SEN)	Special educational needs (SEN) —	Special educational needs (SEN) —
English as an additional language	English as an additional language The school offers English as an Additional Language (EAL) as part of its English provision; EAL is available within the English curriculum to support students' literacy development.	English as an additional language The school teaches English As An Additional Language as an English subject option in the VCE and IB programs. The Learning Enhancement Department provides EAL support for Years 7–12, offering communicative and academic language skills, study skills and cultural transition. The Learning Enhancement Department assists in identifying learning needs and shares this information with teachers. An EAL course of study is available for students who qualify or are recommended for EAL status, with small group classes and curriculum modifications carried out in collaboration with subject teachers. Students may self-refer or be referred by teachers or wellbeing staff for EAL support.
Mental wellbeing	Mental wellbeing Mental wellbeing is supported by a team of qualified mental health professionals available to students.	Mental wellbeing The school has a Counselling Department staffed by qualified, registered psychologists and mental health professionals who provide short-term counselling and support services to all students and their families. They identify areas of student need and collaborate with staff to support and address social, emotional, educational and psychological needs, and work with staff in developing Wellbeing programs. The school runs a Wellness in Motion wellbeing program to help students balance academic success with personal wellbeing. Pastoral care and wellbeing are embedded across the year levels, with support structures in place to promote healthy development.
Safeguarding	Safeguarding The school has a Child Safety and Wellbeing Policy; the Carey community shares responsibility for providing a safe environment and upholding student safety.	Safeguarding The school has a comprehensive Child Safety and Wellbeing Policy that consolidates policies to provide a safe environment and protect the emotional, psychological and physical wellbeing of students. The policy commits zero tolerance for child abuse and aims to promote a child safe culture across the College, including the Boarding environment. The College appoints a Senior Child Safety Officer and several Child Safety Officers, with contact details provided for reporting concerns. Staff, volunteers and external providers undergo induction and mandatory training on child safety and protection, including Working With Children Checks and annual training. The policy sets clear reporting procedures for allegations of abuse, including reporting to the Department of Families, Fairness and Housing (DFFH) or the Police, and it supports student safety through governance, pastoral programs, and family involvement in safety matters.
Safeguarding policy	Safeguarding policy —	Safeguarding policy —
Facilities	Facilities
Facilities overview	Facilities overview Carey has five campuses: Donvale (ELC to Year 6), Kew (ELC to Year 12), the Bulleen Sports Complex, an Outdoor Education facility at Toonallook on the Gippsland Lakes, and a Carey Zero base at Mission Beach in Queensland. The Kew campus houses dedicated, purpose-built spaces for learning and collaboration, including the Centre for Learning and Innovation with a UN Room, and the Centre for Creativity and Collaboration for the Middle School. The Donvale campus provides Early Learning to Year 6 facilities set in native bushland by Mullum Creek, with Bush Kinder integrated into the ELC program. Across Kew and Donvale, Junior, Middle and Senior Schools occupy separate, purpose-built spaces for learning, collaboration and play. The Gippsland Lakes Outdoor Education facility and Mission Beach base support off-campus learning experiences.	Facilities overview PLC is set within expansive, park-like grounds on a single-site campus. The campus blends heritage spaces with new, state-of-the-art facilities to support learning inside and beyond the classroom. The campus fosters a culture of connection and belonging, providing smooth transitions for students at every stage of their learning journey. The Joan Montgomery Centre provides sport, aquatic and fitness facilities, while the Performing Arts Centre houses drama, music studios and a 550-seat auditorium. The Learning Resource Centre offers a modern library with AV and IT labs and café-style break-out zones.
Sports facilities	Sports facilities Carey operates the Bulleen Sports Complex for on-site sport facilities. A broad range of sports is offered, including diving, football, futsal, hockey, netball, rowing, snowsports, soccer, softball, swimming, table tennis, tennis, touch rugby, volleyball and water polo. From Year 5, students participate in APS (boys) and APS/AGSV (girls) competitions on Saturdays and train at least once a week after school, with Firsts teams training twice weekly. Rowing is listed as a summer sport and can count as two programs.	Sports facilities The Joan Montgomery Centre features three full-sized sports courts configurable for basketball, badminton, netball and volleyball, plus a 50 metre, eight-lane swimming pool with a learn-to-swim pool, 1, 3 and 5 metre platform diving towers and seating for 400 spectators. There is a dedicated gymnastics arena, a strength and conditioning room with cardio equipment, and multipurpose spaces for aerobics, dance and mindfulness. An underground carpark supports campus access. The Fortis Hub and the Kinetic Studio form part of the strength and conditioning and performance spaces.
Academic facilities	Academic facilities Centre for Learning and Innovation (CLI) at the Kew campus is used by the Senior School and features modern learning spaces and a UN Room. Centre for Creativity and Collaboration supports the Middle School with dedicated spaces for creativity and collaboration. Early Learning Centres at Kew and Donvale are dedicated, separate spaces for the ELC program and early learning. The Donvale campus sits in native bushland by Mullum Creek and includes Bush Kinder as part of the ELC experience. Across Kew and Donvale, Junior, Middle and Senior Schools occupy purpose-built spaces that support learning and collaboration.	Academic facilities The Learning Resource Centre spans two levels and includes a modern library, fully equipped AV and IT labs and dedicated teaching spaces. Quiet study nooks, flexible group areas and café-style break-out zones support independent and collaborative work. PLC's campus contains cutting-edge STEM classrooms to support science, technology, engineering and maths learning.
Extra curricular facilities	Extra curricular facilities Carey offers a wide range of competitive and non-competitive activities as part of its Pathways program. Students participate in APS (boys) and APS/AGSV (girls) sports on Saturday mornings and train at least once per week after school, with Firsts teams training twice weekly. Music groups, ensembles and choirs, as well as Senior School Musical and Senior School Play, provide year-long rehearsal and performance opportunities. Debating is available for Years 7–10, with 11/12 students able to include Debating as a compulsory elective. Other activities such as snowsports are organised as electives.	Extra curricular facilities PLC offers a diverse co-curricular program including music, sport, performing arts and clubs & activities. The program supports leadership opportunities, student-led clubs and House events to enrich the learning experience and foster teamwork.
Parent experience	Parent experience
History	History Carey Baptist Grammar School was founded in 1923 with the support of the Baptist Union of Victoria, initially as a day and boarding school for boys. It is named in honour of Rev. Dr William Carey, a Baptist missionary and language scholar. Its motto, Animo et Fide, means 'By Courage and Faith'. Carey joined the Associated Public Schools (APS) in 1958. In 2023 Carey celebrated its centenary.	History Opened in Albert Street, East Melbourne in 1875 with 60 pupils. In 1938 PLC purchased a 33-acre farm in Burwood to become the new campus; the Junior School moved to Burwood in 1939 and the Senior School followed in 1958, with the East Melbourne campus later sold. PLC celebrated 150 years of education in 2025. The campus blends heritage with modern facilities, including cutting-edge STEM classrooms and a Performing Arts Centre opened in 2017, and a new Joan Montgomery Centre for sport and aquatic facilities opened in 2025. It remains rooted in Christian faith and aims to empower girls to lead, serve and shape the future.
Community	Community Carey is a positive and engaged community made up of students, staff, families, alumni, donors and friends. Lifelong friendships are formed at Carey, and there are broad sporting and interest groups that provide social occasions and support for both parents and students. The school maintains a close alumni network of about 18,000 members with social events, regular reunions and opportunities such as mentoring and career sessions. The Carey Medal recognises exceptional service to the wider community by members of the Carey community.	Community Wellbeing is woven into every aspect of school life, with a holistic approach that nurtures spiritual, physical, mental, social and emotional development. As a Christian school, PLC is guided by values of integrity, empathy, courage, delight and service, lived out daily in how we learn, lead and care for one another. The Boarding House provides a vibrant, supportive community where girls in Years 7 to 12 live, learn and grow together. Beyond the classroom, co-curricular programs in sport, music, performing arts, service and enrichment activities inspire leadership, teamwork and growth beyond the classroom.
Parent teacher association	Parent teacher association There are four school section-based Parent Associations: Junior School Parents Association – Kew; Junior School Parents Association – Donvale; Middle School Parents Association; Senior School Parents Association. They coordinate a range of activities and opportunities for families to socialise, network and contribute to the school, and they support classroom representatives and provide a forum for parent feedback. There is also the Carey Past Families Hub for former families to stay connected.	Parent teacher association PLC has an active parent community organized through PLC Parent Groups, including Friends of Senior School, Friends of Junior School, Friends of Music, Friends of Rowing, PLC Prayer Community and Boarding Parents. Parents volunteer and participate in events such as Mother's and Father's Day breakfasts, House concerts, student dinners, sports carnivals and music events to support the College. Lampas Society is a separate, no-cost social group for past PLC parents, grandparents, former staff and friends to maintain an ongoing connection with the College, formed in 2004. PLC Foundation invites parents and the broader PLC community to join and support PLC through donations, scholarships and gifts, with programs including the Foundation, 150 Circle and donor recognition. Parent Groups provide social and fundraising activities across year levels and welcome involvement from all families.
Extra-curricular	Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual	Academic & intellectual Carey offers a broad co-curricular program that complements academic studies with opportunities to develop intellectual and collaborative skills through debating, outdoor education, and exchanges. Debating and Public Speaking strengthens confidence and leadership, with teams competing in the Debaters Association of Victoria and a Chinese Debating Team that has reached state, national and international competitions. Outdoor Education provides a sequential program from Prep to Year 9 that builds critical thinking, planning and teamwork, and culminates in the three-week immersive Carey Zero journey in Year 10. Exchanges and other activities expand students' intellectual horizons beyond the classroom.	Academic & intellectual The school runs clubs and activities that build intellectual curiosity and critical thinking. Senior School clubs include Debating, Drama Club, Public Speaking, Philosophy Club, Computer Club/Cyber Security Club, STEM Club, and Maths Committee, with Studysquids supporting study skills.
Arts & creative	Arts & creative Music is a core part of Carey's co-curricular program, with bands, orchestras, choirs and contemporary ensembles plus extensive instrumental and vocal tuition. A visiting artists program brings some of the world's best musicians to work with Carey students, and ensembles perform at concerts, festivals, productions, masterclasses and community events. Theatre and Drama offer on-stage acting, singing/dance, makeup, costume design, set design, lighting, sound and directing, with opportunities to perform in Middle and Senior School productions and junior school musical theatre. There are school plays and musicals each year, with classes and productions across campuses.	Arts & creative The performing arts program builds confidence, creativity and teamwork through music, theatre and dance. Music offers extensive ensembles in Junior and Senior Schools, including choirs, orchestras, bands, and composition. Senior productions, house concerts, and student-led clubs such as Drama Club, Script Club and Tech Crew/Club showcase creativity.
Cultural & language	Cultural & language Exchanges are part of Carey's co-curricular program, providing cross-cultural learning opportunities. The Debating program includes a Chinese Debating Team that competes in state, national and international competitions. The team has achieved notable success, including winning the World High School Chinese Debating Championship in 2019.	Cultural & language Overseas travel and study tours are offered, including language tours to Germany, Japan, China, France, and the United States. International Week Committee and Jindi Worabak contribute to cultural activities. Language tours translate classroom learning into real-world experiences.
Social & hobbies	Social & hobbies Carey supports student-led interest groups in the Middle and Senior Schools, including Pride Group, Gender Equity Group, Environment Group and Social Justice Action Group. Junior School offers optional activities such as chess club and private music lessons available to students at all year levels. A wide range of recreational clubs and hobby groups exists across the school, alongside sport and physical activity opportunities such as yoga, dance and bike riding.	Social & hobbies A broad after-school club program includes Art Club, Book Club, Chess Club, Dressmaking, Knitting, Patchwork, Magpies Literature Club, and Debating. Junior School and Senior School offer sports and recreational groups such as Huff n Puff Fitness Group and Running Groups.
Community & service	Community & service Community outreach is a priority at Carey, with whole-school participation in fundraisers and awareness campaigns starting in the Junior School. Students are encouraged to engage in social justice initiatives and service to the local community. Senior School students volunteer on projects such as the Homework Club at Fitzroy Town Hall, helping refugee children with their homework.	Community & service Service learning is integrated through Kids in Philanthropy; Year 12 and other students participate in community service programs. Duke of Edinburgh's Award participation and a relationship with Neno Girls' School in Malawi are part of the program.
Leadership & professional	Leadership & professional Carey has a formal student leadership structure, including School Captains and a Student Leadership Team. The Executive Leadership Team, led by the Principal, oversees day-to-day school operations and strategic direction. The Carey Board governs the School and sets long-term objectives. Student leadership is integrated with co-curricular activities, assemblies and school events to foster responsibility and community involvement.	Leadership & professional Leadership opportunities include Year 12 leadership roles elected by the student body, and junior school Class Captain and Student Council Representative roles. There are elected representations at House, co-curricular, year and whole-school levels, with involvement in committees such as the Social Action Committee and Patchwork Committee.
Lifestyle & wellbeing	Lifestyle & wellbeing The co-curricular program includes non-competitive fitness options such as dance, yoga and bike fitness. CareyFit is a bespoke online health and fitness platform delivering age-specific workouts once a week for the entire Careysm community, including term-long programs and guest athletes. Carey's facilities in Kew and Bulleen support physical education, training and interschool competition to promote wellbeing and active living.	Lifestyle & wellbeing Outdoor Education runs from Year 3 to Year 11, fostering confidence, independence and resilience. The House system and a broad sports program—Junior and Senior School, including Athletics, Netball, Soccer, Swimming and more—support wellbeing and physical activity.
Language provision	Language provision
Language provision	Language provision Middle School teaches Languages as core subjects: Chinese, Indonesian or French. Year 10 languages are elective and offered in Chinese, French and Indonesian. In Senior School, the International Baccalaureate offers English (Language A) and Chinese, French and Indonesian as Language B, with Spanish ab initio available. An intensive English program for international students is available, with AEAS testing used to determine the length of the program.	Language provision Languages taught include Chinese Second Language, Chinese Second Language Advanced, French, German, Indonesian Second Language, Japanese Second Language, and Latin. In the IB, Group 1 Language A Literature offers English and Chinese; Group 2 Language B Language Acquisition offers English, Japanese, Indonesian, French, Mandarin, Latin, and German.
Bilingual teaching	Bilingual teaching —	Bilingual teaching —
Immersion programs	Immersion programs —	Immersion programs —
Reputation	Reputation
Awards	Awards —	Awards —
Accreditations	Accreditations —	Accreditations —
Admissions	Admissions
Admissions	Admissions The school uses a four-step enrolment process. Step 1: Apply online and pay the $200 application fee. Step 2: Assigned to waitlist according to year level preference and the Enrolment Policy, with a receipt letter acknowledging receipt. Step 3: Formal offer process. Offers for key intake years normally commence about two-and-a-half years before entry; for other year levels, offers are generally made the year prior when places become available; at the start of the offer process the school may contact families on the waitlist to confirm ongoing interest, and a formal Letter of Offer is issued when a place becomes available based on priority. Step 4: Accept offer and confirm enrolment in writing via the Enrolment Agreement and pay the $1,800 Enrolment Fee; enrolment is not confirmed until the Enrolment Fee is processed. Enrolment fees and charges include the $200 application fee, the $1,800 Enrolment Fee and a $2,000 Tuition Deposit for certain entry years (ELC, Prep, Year 5 and Year 7) which is redeemable against tuition; the deposit is forfeited if a place is cancelled or deferred. An interview with the Head of School may form part of the offer process; for Year 8–12, recent school reports and performance are considered. Enrolment in ELC requires full immunisation and Medicare Immunisation Certificates to confirm enrolment, and the Victorian No Jab No Play policy applies. Overseas students must hold a valid Australian visa at enrolment; if a visa is not provided one term prior to commencement, Carey may cancel enrolment and forfeit half a term's fees. Transfer of enrolment between Junior School campuses is not permitted; sibling priority does not apply to children whose sibling is enrolled in ELC; ELC operates during school term dates. The school may require additional policies to be completed and may inform how to careylink after orientation.	Admissions Step 1: Apply. For ELC applications, complete the ELC online application. For Prep to Year 12 applications, complete a Prep to Year 12 online application and pay AU$150 non-refundable application fee. Applicants will be advised of the documents required during the application process; these typically include copies of the applicant's birth certificate, passport and most recent school report, and NAPLAN report if applicable. The boarding enrolment process follows the same steps as the standard enrolment process; boarding applications are accepted for students entering Year 7 to Year 12 and applicants can indicate boarding in the online application, with the rest of the process remaining the same. Step 2: Application confirmation. You will receive a confirmation email upon successful completion of the online application. At this stage, your daughter will be placed on a waiting list. Step 3: Offer. A formal letter of offer will be sent via email if a place is available for the specified intake year. PLC commences offering places according to the timings below: Prep – three years prior to the planned commencement year; Year 5 and Year 7 – two to three years prior to the planned commencement year; Years 9 to 11 – 18 months prior to the planned commencement year. Offers are made at non-intake years as places become available. If you submit an application for a non-intake year, your daughter will automatically be added to the waiting list and the Admissions Team will contact you directly should a place become available. Step 4: Acceptance and confirmation of enrolment. Complete the Acceptance of Place Offer by the due date outlined in the letter of offer and pay a non-refundable enrolment fee of AU$1,500. Step 5: Holding deposit. A holding deposit is charged one year prior to commencement to confirm enrolment for Prep, Year 5 and Year 7. The holding deposit is credited back to school fees in Term 2 of the year a student commences. Step 6: Pre-commencement meeting. In the year prior to enrolment, students entering the Junior School will be invited with their families to a meeting with a member of the Junior School Leadership Team. Students in Years 7 to 11 will be invited to an online meeting. The aim of these meetings is to understand your daughter's interests, talents and needs to support her successful transition to PLC.
Scholarships	Scholarships Academic Scholarships: Offered to students in Years 7 and 10. Registration for scholarships opens mid-October to late January in the year prior to entry; the scholarship test is conducted in February prior to entry (e.g., February of Year 6 for Year 7 entry). All candidates are notified of the outcome in due course. Year 10 applicants must also send a copy of their latest school report to the Admissions Office. Shortlisted candidates are invited to interview, and results are issued to both shortlisted and unsuccessful candidates; the process can take several weeks. For further scholarship exam details, Edutest information is available. General Excellence Scholarships: Offered for Years 7, 10 and 11. Applications are reviewed periodically with key dates including application reviews commencing October 13, 2025 and applications closing February 20, 2026 for 2027 entry. Shortlisted applicants attend an interview with the Principal and the Head of Sport and Activities, followed by an academic test (Edutest). Final selection is by the Principal after a further interview. Scholarships typically cover about 50% remission of tuition fees and do not cover application/entry fees, books, uniforms, digital devices, consolidated charges or optional extras. If not met, scholarships may be withdrawn on annual review. Access and Equity Scholarships: Limited in number for Years 7 or 10. The scholarship covers tuition fees from commencement in Year 7 or Year 10 through Year 12, as well as consolidated charges and a laptop. Applications close at the end of Term 1 each year. Shortlisted applicants undergo a needs-based financial assessment. For inquiries, contact the Admissions team; the form is available online.	Scholarships Types of scholarships: academic scholarships, general excellence scholarships, music scholarships, boarding scholarships, and means-tested scholarships; Old Collegian/Helen Hailes Memorial Scholarship is also offered. Eligibility: current PLC Year 6 students are eligible to apply for entry into Year 7; students currently attending PLC Senior School are not eligible to apply for Years 8–11; candidates must be Australian citizens or hold a Permanent Resident visa; late applications are not accepted. Value: PLC scholarships may cover up to 50% of the basic annual tuition fees; boarding scholarships cover up to 50% of the boarding fees to the end of Year 12; means-tested scholarships are awarded based on financial need. Scholarship process: Academic and General Excellence scholarships rely on ACER exams and consideration of the most recent school report and, in some cases, an interview; Music scholarships may include an audition; Boarding scholarships involve ACER exam and, in some cases, an interview; Helen Hailes Memorial Scholarship is for daughters or granddaughters of Old Collegians and is not offered every year. Entry for 2028: Scholarship Exam Date is TBA (Term 4, 2026). For more information, contact PLC Admissions at +61 3 9808 5811 or admissions@plc.vic.edu.au.
Waitlist	Waitlist The school assigns all applications to the waitlist according to year level preference and the Enrolment Policy. Key intake years are three-year-old ELC, Prep, Year 5, Year 7 and Year 10, though applications for all year levels are welcome. Priority of admission is: 1) to siblings and children of permanent staff members; 2) to children of Carey alumni who apply in the first year after the child's birth; 3) to children of other families who apply in the first year after birth; 4) to children of Carey alumni who apply after their child turns twelve months of age; 5) by date of application thereafter; with consideration given to children of fully ordained Baptist Ministers. An application is a prerequisite to admission but not a guarantee of enrolment. An interview with the Head of School may form part of the offer process, and for Year 8–12 applications, recent school reports and performance will be considered. Transfer of enrolment between Junior School campuses is not permitted; waitlisted siblings enrolled at Junior School receive sibling priority for entry into the same campus. For enrolment in ELC, children must be fully immunised and ELC operates on school term dates; overseas students must hold a valid visa; if a visa is not provided, Carey reserves the right to cancel enrolment and forfeit half a term's fees. The school emphasises immunisation and visa requirements, and no transfer between campuses is allowed for junior school entries.	Waitlist Applicants who complete the online enrolment application are placed on the waiting list. PLC commences offering places when places become available. For intakes, Prep is offered three years before commencement; Year 5 and Year 7 are offered two to three years before commencement; Years 9 to 11 are offered about 18 months prior. If applying for a non-intake year, the daughter will be automatically added to the waiting list and the Admissions Team will contact you directly should a place become available.
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