Moreton Bay Boys' College vs St Johns Anglican College - Secondary
Moreton Bay Boys' College and St Johns Anglican College - Secondary are both in Brisbane, about 26 km apart. Both schools offer IB and Australian programmes. Published annual fees are A$5,227 - 17,256 at Moreton Bay Boys' College and A$9,480 - 20,920 at St Johns Anglican College - Secondary, which puts St Johns Anglican College - Secondary roughly 35% higher. Moreton Bay Boys' College takes pupils from 2 to 18, and St Johns Anglican College - Secondary from 4 to 18. St Johns Anglican College - Secondary is the larger school, with around 1,262 pupils to Moreton Bay Boys' College's 561.
The school is located at 302 Manly Road, Manly West, Brisbane, Queensland 4179, Australia. It sits in the Manly West suburb on Brisbane's Bayside, within the eastern suburbs of Brisbane, minutes from Moreton Bay and less than 15 km from the city centre. The campus covers 13 hectares of bushland with a 5.5-hectare nature sanctuary behind the classrooms.
Location
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Stages
Stages
Prep to Year 12
Stages
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School type
School type
Independent, single-sex boys' day school
School type
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Pupil nationality mix
Pupil nationality mix
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Pupil nationality mix
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Additional learning support
Additional learning support
Learning Enhancement provides Academic Talent Development for intellectually gifted and academically talented boys, with in-class challenge and extension, depth and flexible pacing.
Additional learning support
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Country affiliation
Country affiliation
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Country affiliation
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Religious affiliation
Religious affiliation
Affiliated with the Uniting Church
Religious affiliation
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School day structure
School day structure
School day commonly starts at 8:20 am and finishes at 3:10 pm as indicated in College bus guidelines.
School day structure
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Bus service details
Bus service details
Dedicated bus service with four exclusive routes operated by Express Coaches for MBBC and Moreton Bay College students; inter-campus shuttle between MBC and MBBC is free; bookings via RollCall; seats reserved; inter-campus transfer is free.
Bus service details
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Fees
Fees
Fee details
Fee details
Application and Confirmation Fees
- Application Fee (new domestic students): AUD 350 (non‑refundable). - Confirmation Fee (new domestic students): AUD 950 (non‑refundable; GST exempt). - International applicants: Application and other international‑student charges differ (example figures used for international enrolments include an Application Fee of AUD 550 and additional international charges such as an enrolment/confirmation fee and OSHC where applicable).
Tuition fees (by year group) — full year and per term amounts
- Years 11–12 - Tuition (per year): AUD 17,256.00. - Typical per‑term amount (if invoiced over four terms): AUD 4,314.00. - Year 12 invoicing: Year 12 tuition is invoiced over Terms 1, 2 and 3 (term instalment when invoiced over three terms: AUD 5,752.00 per term).
- Annual payment discount: A 2.5% discount applies to tuition fees only for families who pay the annual tuition fee (and the capital levy) by the Term 1 due date; discount amounts are applied to the annual tuition.
Additional charges and regular levies
- Capital Levy (per family, per year — applicable for families with a student in Prep to Year 11): AUD 600 per year. - Voluntary Building Fund (tax‑deductible): AUD 700 per year. - Camps and co‑curricular activities: Additional charges apply where activities or camps incur costs beyond tuition; camp and co‑curricular charges are billed separately as required. Private music tuition is charged separately (either directly to the teacher or via the College account). - Sibling discount: Second child receives 10% and third and subsequent children receive 15% (applies to students Kindergarten–Year 12 across the Moreton Bay Colleges where siblings attend simultaneously).
Boarding / Homestay
- There is no on‑campus boarding provision. Homestay accommodation and related charges are available for international students and are charged separately (examples of international homestay and associated fees include fees for homestay placement, homestay annual fees, homestay administration and airport transfers as itemised for international students).
Other likely one‑off or ongoing costs
- Estimated cost for uniforms (approximate, purchased through the College uniform shop): around AUD 1,100 for a standard set. - Books and stationery: approximate annual cost indicated (example reference for international students) AUD 550 per year; domestic booklist and stationery requirements may vary by year level and are billed or purchased separately. - Student welfare / compulsory levies and course‑specific charges (where applicable) are billed as required and may appear on term statements. Estimated student welfare and VET or external course charges are set where applicable.
Billing schedule and payment terms
- Billing frequency options: per annum, per term, or monthly instalments. - Annual payment: Due date listed as the Term 1 due date for the year to qualify for the annual tuition discount. Monthly instalment option: 11 instalments by direct debit due on the 10th of each month. - Term dates / term due dates are issued with the College calendar and statements; typical term invoicing dates appear each year (example term due dates are published with the College fee schedule). - Year 12 tuition is invoiced differently to other years (invoiced over Terms 1–3).
Payment methods and surcharges
- Accepted payment methods include BPAY, EasyPay, direct debit and credit card. Additional merchant surcharges apply to credit card payments. Payment by direct debit is required for monthly instalment plans.
Late payment, notices and refunds
- Late fee: A charge of AUD 150 is applied per term when fees remain unpaid by the due date. - Notice of withdrawal: Written notice of not less than one full school term is required. A late‑notice fee equal to one term's fees is payable where the required notice is not provided. - Refunds of application and confirmation fees: Application fees are non‑refundable. Confirmation fees are non‑refundable for domestic enrolments; for international enrolments the confirmation fee refund conditions include visa‑refusal exceptions where documented evidence is provided.
Summary of key monetary items (rounded where applicable)
- Application Fee (domestic): AUD 350. Confirmation Fee (domestic): AUD 950. - Representative annual tuition amounts (examples): Kindergarten AUD 5,227.44; Prep–Yr 3 AUD 11,904.00; Yr 7–10 AUD 16,800.00; Yr 11–12 AUD 17,256.00. Capital levy per family AUD 600; voluntary building fund AUD 700.
Fee details
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Diving deeper
Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements
Boarding arrangements
International Homestay Programme available for international students.
Boarding arrangements
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Uniform requirement
Uniform requirement
Uniforms are required. The Uniform Shop provides uniforms and appointments are required to visit.
Uniform requirement
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Food options
Food options
Tuckshop operates Monday to Friday from 7:30am to 1:00pm. Online ordering is via Flexischools; meals can be picked up at lunchtime.
Food options
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House system
House system
There are four Houses: Flynn (red), Dunlop (blue), Doherty (green), Nicholls (gold). All boys are placed into a House and remain in that House; regular Interhouse competitions occur.
House system
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Governance and ownership
Governance and ownership
Governance is vested in the Board of Directors. Following the amalgamation of Moreton Bay Boys' College and Moreton Bay College on 1 July 2011, a new board was appointed for both Colleges and the membership is identical across the two boards.
Governance and ownership
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Academics
Academics
Curriculum details
Curriculum details
MBBC offers the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme (PYP) for the Primary years and follows Queensland Curriculum and Assessment Authority (QCAA) General senior subject syllabuses in Years 11–12. The Secondary programme for Years 7–10 blends core Australian Curriculum subjects with a broad range of electives, including Design Technology, Digital Solutions, Drama, Music, Spanish, Visual Art, Business, and more, with Year 7 featuring core subjects and rotations, Year 8 offering specialization, and Years 9–10 expanding choices to prepare for the Senior Phase. Core subjects in Years 7–10 include English, Mathematics, Science, and Individuals and Society, Health and Physical Education, and Religious Education. The Senior phase (Years 11–12) comprises a six-subject program across four semesters, with pathways to the QCE and to ATAR or VET, including the option of a three-year Senior program under the Variable Progression Rate (VPR). Non-ATAR pathways include School-based Apprenticeships and Traineeships and VET modules. MBBC is an IB World School and its curriculum emphasises inquiry-based learning and international-mindedness, supported by a range of support structures.
Curriculum details
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Student teacher ratio
Student teacher ratio
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Student teacher ratio
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Exam results
Exam results
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Exam results
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Higher education progression
Higher education progression
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Higher education progression
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Gifted and talented
Gifted and talented
Learning Enhancement: Curriculum designed for depth and complexity, allowing boys to think critically, solve problems and explore ideas in greater detail. The program supports depth in learning to challenge high-ability students.
Gifted and talented
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Academic calendar
Academic calendar
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Academic calendar
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Wellbeing & support
Wellbeing & support
Social & emotional learning
Social & emotional learning
MBBC supports social and emotional learning through its Wellbeing for Learning Strategy and the Five to Thrive framework. Students and staff use the IB Learner Profile language (Inquirers, Knowledgeable, Thinkers, Communicators, Principled, Open-minded, Caring, Risk takers, Balanced and Reflective) to guide personal development and relationships. Pastoral care is embedded across Primary and Secondary, including College Houses, Chaplaincy, and a Service Learning Programme. The school promotes positive relationships and respectful community through a Positive Behaviour approach and restorative practices. Eagles Flight reinforces a caring, faith‑based ethos and a supportive college culture.
Social & emotional learning
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Special educational needs (SEN)
Special educational needs (SEN)
Learning Enhancement provides Academic Talent Development (ATD) for intellectually gifted and academically talented boys, with daily challenge and a curriculum designed for depth and complexity within the regular classroom. ATD uses a Differentiated Model of Giftedness and Talent to guide flexible pacing, inquiry, collaboration and real‑world problem solving. The College Counselling service offers referral, consent and feedback processes to support student learning and wellbeing. Pastoral care emphasizes an inclusive, non‑discriminatory environment and positive behaviours to support all students. Restorative practices underpin the approach to resolving conflicts and maintaining relationships within the school community.
Special educational needs (SEN)
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English as an additional language
English as an additional language
International enrolments require acceptable evidence of English language proficiency (e.g., AEAS, IELTS) and an interview with the Principal to assess readiness for entry. Some international entrants may undertake extra English language tuition to meet the standard needed to enter mainstream classes. The International Enrolments pathway includes School Preparation, Mainstream and Short‑Term options, along with a Homestay Programme to support transition and accommodation. Homestay arrangements can be arranged through the college if required.
English as an additional language
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Mental wellbeing
Mental wellbeing
Five to Thrive provides the wellbeing framework, focusing on feeling good and functioning well. The five actions are Connect, Be Active, Take Notice, Keep Learning and Give, based on evidence from the New Economics Foundation. The framework offers a shared language and proactive strategies to promote wellbeing for students and staff, aiming to buffer mental health concerns before they arise. Wellbeing initiatives are embedded across the school through pastoral care, five to thrive activities, chaplaincy, and service learning, reinforcing healthy relationships and resilience. The approach is centered on proactive, evidence‑based practices aligned with MBBC values.
Mental wellbeing
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Safeguarding
Safeguarding
MBBC maintains a Student Safeguarding and Child Protection Framework to educate boys and safeguard their learning and development. Staff and volunteers are trusted adults who work with students to ensure safety, and the school aims for students to feel safe in learning environments and to have someone they can approach with concerns. The safeguarding framework is designed to provide safe environments and to support continuous improvement across the school community. Policies and procedures related to safeguarding are in place to manage safeguarding across P‑12 and to support ongoing safeguarding efforts.
Safeguarding
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Safeguarding policy
Safeguarding policy
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Safeguarding policy
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Facilities
Facilities
Facilities overview
Facilities overview
Set on 13 hectares of bushland with a 5.5-hectare nature sanctuary behind the classrooms, MBBC has technologically rich classrooms and dedicated art, drama and music spaces. The Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) Digital Learning Programme is supported by dedicated IT laboratories and mini IT laboratories, with wireless connectivity throughout and each boy in Years 4–12 having his own device. In 2018 MBBC opened a central learning hub, a two‑level library with resources, group work areas and IT facilities designed to adapt to evolving teaching methods. The buildings employ sustainable technologies and have earned environmental awards.
Facilities overview
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Sports facilities
Sports facilities
Two ovals for cricket, softball, touch football and athletics; a football and soccer oval; synthetic cricket training nets; three full‑size tennis courts; three outdoor basketball courts; areas designated for long jump, shot put, javelin and discus; a gruelling cross‑country course; and a on‑site 2.5 km mountain-bike track with a student club.
Sports facilities
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Academic facilities
Academic facilities
A central learning hub opened in 2018 includes a two‑level library with resources, group work areas and IT facilities. A 120‑seat lecture theatre and the Dr Roderick Crouch Senior Studies area prepare students for university. Flexible, contemporary science laboratories support different learning approaches, and the nature sanctuary lends itself to environmental science work. An integrated wireless IT, Graphics and Design laboratory equipped with CAD software and 3D printers enables design and engineering projects.
Academic facilities
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Extra curricular facilities
Extra curricular facilities
Mountain biking is supported on site with a student‑designed track and club, and MBBC features a 2.5 km mountain-bike course graded as blue intermediate on campus; there is also a cross‑country course for outdoor sport activities.
Extra curricular facilities
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Parent experience
Parent experience
History
History
MBBC was formed as the first independent boys' school established within Brisbane in around 70 years. MBBC is a modern independent boys' school conducted within the Christian traditions of the Uniting Church, sharing a brother–sister relationship with Moreton Bay College, a girls' school. In the 1990s, families from Moreton Bay College and the wider Bayside community sought a local boys‑only option reflecting MBC's ethos. An agreement between Moreton Bay College and the Presbyterian and Methodist Schools' Association established MBBC, and Moreton Bay Boys' College Ltd (MBBC Ltd), a separate not‑for‑profit company that owns and operates the College, was incorporated on 10 April 2003.
History
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Community
Community
MBBC has a community built around the MBBC P&F Association, devoted to developing a community of parents, friends, staff and students and to fundraising to enhance boys' learning and strengthen the College community. Enrolled students automatically make their parents caregivers members of the P&F. There are many ways to get involved, including volunteering time or expertise, sponsoring events, attending P&F meetings, or helping with events such as the Mother's and Father's Day Stalls and the Colours Run. The P&F has supported initiatives like Nature Play, with Stage One of the Nature Inquiry space funded by the Association. Parent Representatives connect families and help integrate new members into the MBBC community.
Community
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Parent teacher association
Parent teacher association
MBBC P&F Committee leads the MBBC Parent & Friends Association for 2026, with a President and committee members guiding various activities. Members can volunteer time, provide expertise, sponsor events or donate prizes, and attend P&F meetings or help at events. Volunteer opportunities include organizing and supporting Mother's and Father's Day Stalls and the Colours Run. The P&F has funded and supported projects such as Nature Play, including the Nature Inquiry space Stage One. Parent Representatives exist to deepen family involvement, provide social connections between families and the school, and help welcome new families into the community. Regular P&F meetings are scheduled in 2026 (e.g., February 18, March 18, May 13, July 29, September 16, November 4) with planning activity continuing into November 2026.
Parent teacher association
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Extra-curricular
Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual
Academic & intellectual
The school teaches within the International Baccalaureate (IB) framework and offers the Primary Years Programme (PYP). The curriculum is designed to provide a seamless transition toward each boy's post-school destination, with core subjects including Religious Education, Design Technology, Languages and Enterprise Education. It emphasises inquiry-based learning to develop deep conceptual understanding, critical thinking and responsible action. Co-curricular activities extend learning beyond the classroom to enrich academic development.
Academic & intellectual
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Arts & creative
Arts & creative
Drama and the Arts are available through classroom and extra-curricular programmes, and the annual MBBC drama production and joint productions with Moreton Bay College showcase student creativity. The annual Art Showcase, ManifestMBBC, gives Visual Arts students the opportunity to display their work. Exceptional musical experiences are available through the joint Music programme across the Moreton Bay Colleges, with ensembles and choirs, private lessons from Prep to Year 12 and participation in external examinations. Lovers of drama and the arts have opportunities to perform and create across stage, music and visual arts.
Arts & creative
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Cultural & language
Cultural & language
Languages are included in the core curriculum. Cultural activities are supported through co-curricular programs such as Cultural clubs and Tours and exchanges. The school emphasises a values-driven, inclusive Christian learning environment and is affiliated with the Uniting Church.
Cultural & language
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Social & hobbies
Social & hobbies
Extensive co-curricular options include Chess Club, Debating and the Duke of Edinburgh program. Drama, music and arts clubs provide additional outlets for creativity and competition, including public speaking, drama productions and other clubs. Students can take part in tours, exchanges and a range of cultural and sporting activities as part of a broad, boy-focused learning community.
Social & hobbies
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Community & service
Community & service
The MBBC offers a Service Learning Programme that engages students in community service and volunteering. The College fosters an inclusive Christian community with a commitment to values such as Engagement, Character, Care and Teamwork through its learning environment.
Community & service
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Leadership & professional
Leadership & professional
Public Speaking, Debating, Drama, Future Problem Solving, Mooting and Duke of Edinburgh are available to develop leadership and professional skills. Students can take on leadership roles within clubs and co-curricular activities and pursue pathways that build confidence and initiative.
Leadership & professional
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Lifestyle & wellbeing
Lifestyle & wellbeing
Wellbeing is central to MBBC, with a pastoral care focus and Five to Thrive as part of the Wellbeing for Learning framework. The school promotes a Safe and Supportive Community and four core values: Engagement, Character, Care and Teamwork. Sports and outdoor programs include Mountain Biking, Sailing and other activities that contribute to physical development.
Lifestyle & wellbeing
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Language provision
Language provision
Language provision
Language provision
Spanish is taught in the Secondary Years, appearing as a core subject in Year 7 and as an elective in Years 8–10. In the Primary Years Programme, MBBC promotes multilingual expression, with students encouraged to express themselves in more than one language. The International Students Prospectus lists English, Traditional Chinese, Simplified Chinese, Japanese, Korean and Vietnamese as languages available to international students. MBBC is an IB World School offering the Primary Years Programme (PYP).
Language provision
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Bilingual teaching
Bilingual teaching
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Bilingual teaching
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Immersion programs
Immersion programs
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Immersion programs
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Reputation
Reputation
Awards
Awards
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Awards
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Accreditations
Accreditations
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Accreditations
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Admissions
Admissions
Admissions
Admissions
Step 1 – Apply. Submit the enrolment application with the required documents: a copy of the student's passport; English versions of the student's academic records for the past two years; a completed Reference Form from the student's current or most recent school principal if previous reports do not record behaviour or commitment; a completed subject selection form (if applicable); evidence of English language proficiency (for example AEAS or IELTS); an application for course credit (if required); a completed Homestay Application Form (if applicable); and a non‑refundable enrolment application fee. All documents must be in English or certified translations, and evidence of academic ability and English proficiency is required to meet entry and curriculum demands. Applications may be submitted online or via the enrolment form, and families are advised to apply early. Approximately 18 months before the nominated year of entry, families will be invited to join an enrolment interview at the college.
Admissions
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Scholarships
Scholarships
Step 3 – Offer. A successful application and interview results in an official Offer from the College. Offers are made after the enrolment interview, with a Provisional Letter of Offer and Written Agreement outlining the type of offer and fees, entry requirements and course details. A place is not confirmed until the signed Provisional Letter of Offer, signed Written Agreement and payment of the applicable fees have been received. Step 4 – Visa. With the CoE (Confirmation of Enrolment) and CAAW (Confirmation of Accommodation and Welfare) issued via PRISMS, families can apply for a student visa. Step 5 – Pre‑Arrival. If required, homestay arrangements can be made with the College, and families should provide flight details at least two weeks before arrival to arrange airport transfers and orientation.
Scholarships
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Waitlist
Waitlist
Step 2 – Eligibility and interview. Approximately 18 months before the nominated year of entry, families are invited to an enrolment interview with the Principal or a member of the Senior Leadership Team. The interview can be conducted in person or via video conference and serves as an opportunity to discuss the student's academic and co‑curricular interests, English language proficiency, and college expectations. After the interview, the college will notify the family of the outcome. Step 3 – Offer.