Penrhos College and Presbyterian Ladies' College Perth are both in Perth, about 10 km apart. Both schools offer IB and Australian programmes. Published annual fees are close, at A$5,501 - 33,087 for Penrhos College and A$150 - 37,008 for Presbyterian Ladies' College Perth. Penrhos College takes pupils from 3 to 18, and Presbyterian Ladies' College Perth from 2 to 18. The two are similar in size, at around 1,100 and 1,200 pupils.
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Penrhos College
Perth, Australia
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Presbyterian Ladies' College Perth
Perth, Australia
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| Snapshot | Snapshot | |
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Fees / year
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Fees / year A$5,501 - 33,087 | Fees / year A$150 - 37,008 |
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Age range
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Age range 3 - 18 years | Age range 2 - 18 years |
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Type
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Type Girls School, Girls School (boarding) | Type Girls School, Girls School (boarding) |
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Curriculum
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Curriculum IB (PYP), Australian Curriculum | Curriculum IB (PYP), IB (DP), Australian Curriculum |
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Pupils
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Pupils 1,100 | Pupils 1,200 |
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Typical class size
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Typical class size — | Typical class size — |
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Instruction language
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Instruction language English | Instruction language English |
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Opened
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Opened 1952 | Opened 1915 |
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Bus service
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Bus service No | Bus service No |
| Essentials | Essentials | |
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Location
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Location 6 Morrison Street, Como, WA 6152, Australia. The College campus sits on eight hectares; the main entrance is on Morrison Street, with additional entry points on Thelma Street and Murray Street. The school is located in Como, a southern suburb of Perth in Western Australia. Bus services to Penrhos College are operated by Transperth and Horizons West, with Student SmartRider access for eligible routes. | Location Visit Us: 14 McNeil Street, Peppermint Grove, Western Australia 6011. Main Reception (08) 9424 6444. The campus is located in Peppermint Grove, a western suburb of Perth, Western Australia. |
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Stages
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Stages Early Learning Centre (Pre-K to Year 2); Junior School (Year 3 to Year 6); Secondary School (Year 7 to Year 12). | Stages Pre-Kindergarten to Year 12; Junior School and Senior School share one campus. |
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School type
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School type Independent girls' school; day school with on-site boarding through Menai Boarding House for Year 7–12. | School type Day and boarding school. |
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Pupil nationality mix
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Pupil nationality mix — | Pupil nationality mix — |
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Additional learning support
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Additional learning support Inclusive Education provides individualized support for students with diagnosed disabilities or additional needs; a team of specialist teachers and education assistants delivers in-class differentiation, modified programs, targeted literacy and numeracy support, and one-on-one or small-group instruction; Gifted education and enrichment opportunities are offered. | Additional learning support — |
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Country affiliation
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Country affiliation Australia | Country affiliation Australia |
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Religious affiliation
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Religious affiliation Uniting Church of Australia | Religious affiliation Uniting Church in Australia |
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School day structure
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School day structure — | School day structure Senior School: Start 8:55 am; end 3:25 pm with six periods (8:55–9:45; 9:55–10:45; 11:05–11:55; 12:05–12:55; 1:35–2:25; 2:35–3:25); recess 10:45–11:05; lunch 12:55–1:35. Junior School: Class time 8:35–8:45; Periods 8:45–9:45; 9:45–10:45; 11:05–12:00; 12:00–12:55; lunch 12:55–1:35; Period 5 1:35–2:30; Period 6 ends with staggered finish (Pre-K & K 2:50 pm; PP & Year 1 3:10 pm; Years 2–3 3:20 pm; Years 3–6 3:30 pm). |
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Bus service details
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Bus service details Bus services are operated by Transperth and Horizons West; students use a SmartRider; morning and afternoon routes connect Penrhos with Applecross, Booragoon, South Perth, Bicton, Harrisdale/Rossmoyne and Perth Hills; some routes are scheduled as public routes and operate in gazetted school terms; check journey planner for current schedules. | Bus service details Dedicated Horizons West buses; Transperth services; From 2 February 2026, 705 school special route from Fremantle Train Station to PLC in the morning and afternoon; PLC is well serviced by Transperth stops including along Stirling Highway and near Cottesloe Train Station. |
| Fees | Fees | |
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Fee details
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Fee details Application and Confirming Fees - Application Fee: AUD 150 (non-refundable) per applicant. - Family Confirming Fee (non-refundable) payable on final acceptance: - Pre-Kindergarten and Kindergarten: AUD 1,903. - Pre-Primary to Year 10: AUD 7,501 (this is calculated as 25% of the Year 7 annual tuition fee). - Year 11: AUD 3,750 (12.5% of the Year 7 annual tuition fee). - Year 12: AUD 1,875 (6.25% of the Year 7 annual tuition fee). Tuition, Resource and Technology Fees — Annual and Payment Breakdown (per year group) Note: the “Total (annual)” figures include tuition plus the listed resource fee and technology levy. Term figures shown are calculated as the annual total ÷ 4 (calculated). - Early Learning Centre - Pre-Kindergarten (2 days): Annual total AUD 5,501; per-term (calculated) AUD 1,375.50. Payment plan amounts: Annual (discounted amount billed) AUD 5,418; Three payments AUD 1,834; Monthly AUD 550; Fortnightly AUD 250; Weekly AUD 125. - Pre-Kindergarten (3 days): Annual total AUD 8,253; per-term (calculated) AUD 2,063.25. Payment plan: Annual AUD 8,130; Three AUD 2,751; Monthly AUD 825; Fortnightly AUD 375; Weekly AUD 188. - Pre-Kindergarten (4 days): Annual total AUD 11,002; per-term (calculated) AUD 2,750.50. Payment plan: Annual AUD 10,837; Three AUD 3,667; Monthly AUD 1,100; Fortnightly AUD 500; Weekly AUD 250. - Kindergarten (4 days): Tuition AUD 10,791; Resource fee AUD 216; Total annual AUD 11,007; per-term (calculated) AUD 2,751.75. Payment plan: Annual AUD 10,845; Three AUD 3,669; Monthly AUD 1,101; Fortnightly AUD 500; Weekly AUD 250. - Kindergarten (5 days): Tuition AUD 13,489; Resource fee AUD 270; Total annual AUD 13,759; per-term (calculated) AUD 3,439.75. Payment plan: Annual AUD 13,557; Three AUD 4,586; Monthly AUD 1,376; Fortnightly AUD 625; Weekly AUD 313. - Junior School - Pre-Primary: Tuition AUD 17,773; Resource fee AUD 370; Technology levy AUD 200; Total annual AUD 18,343; per-term (calculated) AUD 4,585.75. Payment plan: Annual AUD 18,076; Three AUD 6,114; Monthly AUD 1,834; Fortnightly AUD 834; Weekly AUD 417. - Year 1–2: Tuition AUD 21,632; Resource fee AUD 370; Technology levy AUD 200; Total annual AUD 22,202; per-term (calculated) AUD 5,550.50. Payment plan: Annual AUD 21,878; Three AUD 7,401; Monthly AUD 2,220; Fortnightly AUD 1,009; Weekly AUD 505. - Year 3: Tuition AUD 21,632; Resource fee AUD 370; Technology levy AUD 400; Total annual AUD 22,402; per-term (calculated) AUD 5,600.50. Payment plan: Annual AUD 22,078; Three AUD 7,467; Monthly AUD 2,240; Fortnightly AUD 1,018; Weekly AUD 509. - Year 4: Tuition AUD 21,632; Resource fee AUD 370; Technology levy AUD 600; Total annual AUD 22,602; per-term (calculated) AUD 5,650.50. Payment plan: Annual AUD 22,278; Three AUD 7,534; Monthly AUD 2,260; Fortnightly AUD 1,027; Weekly AUD 514. - Year 5–6: Tuition AUD 22,427; Resource fee AUD 370; Technology levy AUD 600; Total annual AUD 23,397; per-term (calculated) AUD 5,849.25. Payment plan: Annual AUD 23,061; Three AUD 7,799; Monthly AUD 2,340; Fortnightly AUD 1,064; Weekly AUD 532. - Secondary School - Year 7–9: Tuition AUD 30,003; Resource fee AUD 250; Technology levy AUD 800; Total annual AUD 31,053; per-term (calculated) AUD 7,763.25. Payment plan: Annual AUD 30,603; Three AUD 10,351; Monthly AUD 3,105; Fortnightly AUD 1,412; Weekly AUD 706. - Year 10–12: Tuition AUD 32,137; Resource fee AUD 150; Technology levy AUD 800; Total annual AUD 33,087; per-term (calculated) AUD 8,271.75. Payment plan: Annual AUD 32,605; Three AUD 11,029; Monthly AUD 3,309; Fortnightly AUD 1,504; Weekly AUD 752. Boarding Fees (Year 7–12) - Boarding annual tuition/boarding total: AUD 32,364; per-term (calculated) AUD 8,091.00. Payment plan: Annual AUD 31,879; Three AUD 10,788; Monthly AUD 3,236; Fortnightly AUD 1,471; Weekly AUD 736. Boarding fees are stated as inclusive of cleaning, laundry, routine nursing, approved recreational activities and transport; uniform charges are not included in boarding. Sundry, Music and Speech & Drama Fees - Sundry charges (invoiced separately once each term, payment due 14 days from invoice) may include items such as Year 12 Ball, Year 12 Yearbook, Year 11 Dance, boarders' taxi charges, music camp and consumables, Year 10 camp jumpers, educational tours, Outdoor Education Levy, LAMDA exams, locker padlocks, blazer colours embroidery and similar items. - Music lessons (annual fees): 30-minute lessons AUD 2,078; 45-minute lessons AUD 3,117; group theory lessons AUD 701; instrument hire AUD 396 (Year K–12). - Speech & Drama (annual fees): Year 3–6 and Year 7–12 fee schedules are listed per lesson/structure; these are charged termly via the school's system as per the published fee schedule. Billing Schedule and Payment Terms - Five payment options are offered: Annual, Three equal payments (default), Monthly (10 equal direct debit payments), Fortnightly (22 equal direct debit payments) and Weekly (44 equal weekly direct debit payments). Exact due dates for 2026 were: Annual — one payment due 6 February 2026 (1.5% discount applies to tuition and boarding annual fees only); Three payments — due 6 February 2026, 8 May 2026 and 7 August 2026; Monthly — 15th of each month from February to November 2026 (10 payments); Fortnightly — first Wednesday of each fortnight from 4 February 2026 to 25 November 2026 (22 payments); Weekly — Wednesdays from 4 February 2026 to 2 December 2026 (44 payments). - A late payment fee of AUD 150 (including GST) will be charged for accounts not paid within 14 days of the due date unless prior arrangements are made. Direct debit dishonour/returned payments incur an administration fee of AUD 15 each (including GST). Sundry charges are invoiced separately once each term, with payment due 14 days from invoice date. Payment Methods and Card Surcharges - Accepted methods: Cheque (to Penrhos College), BPAY (biller code and CRN shown on invoice), credit card in person/phone/portal (Mastercard, Visa, American Express — a 0.9% surcharge applies to all credit card payments), and direct debit (from nominated bank account or credit card). Cash payments greater than AUD 2,000 must be made at a NAB branch using the College account (BSB 086-006 Account 43-137-8566) with the payer's name and account number as reference. Refunds, Withdrawals and Other Payment Conditions - Notice of withdrawal: A full term's written notice to the Principal is required prior to withdrawal, otherwise an additional charge equal to one quarter (25%) of the annual tuition fee will apply (plus GST). For students not returning at the beginning of a new school year, notice must be received prior to close of business on the last day of the Term 3 holidays of the previous year. If a student withdraws during a term, the balance of the Tuition Fee, Resource Fee and Notebook/Technology Levy for the remainder of that term, plus any additional Music, Speech & Drama or sundry charges, becomes immediately due and payable. - Boarding withdrawal: If a boarding student is withdrawn at any stage during the year, the balance of boarding fees for the remainder of the year becomes immediately due and payable. To withdraw a boarding student for the following year, a full term's written notice is required; failure to provide this will incur a charge equal to one half (50%) of the following year's annual boarding fee (plus GST). - The College may levy additional charges for avoidable breakages or damage to school property caused by a student. Parents are advised to ensure appropriate health, property and liability insurance, as the College does not accept responsibility for medical expenses or loss/damage to personal effects. | Fee details Registration and Acceptance Fees - Registration fee: AUD 150 (non‑refundable, including GST). - Acceptance fee: payable on acceptance and non‑refundable / non‑transferable. It is equal to 20% of the Year 7 annual tuition fee; the Acceptance Fee for 2026 is AUD 6,970. A reduced Acceptance Fee of 10% of the Year 7 fee applies for second and subsequent siblings. Boys entering Pre‑Kindergarten and Kindergarten receive a 25% discount on the Acceptance Fee. The Acceptance Fee includes life membership to the PLC Old Collegians' Association and an endowment contribution. Tuition and Boarding fees (annual and per term instalments) - Pre‑Kindergarten (3 days): Annual AUD 13,104; four term instalments AUD 3,276; annual in advance (2.25% discount) AUD 12,809. - Kindergarten & Pre‑Primary: Annual AUD 21,840; four term instalments AUD 5,460; annual in advance AUD 21,349. - Years 1–2: Annual AUD 21,840; four term instalments AUD 5,460; annual in advance AUD 21,349. - Years 3–4: Annual AUD 23,992; four term instalments AUD 5,998; annual in advance AUD 23,452. - Years 5–6: Annual AUD 28,064; four term instalments AUD 7,016; annual in advance AUD 27,433. - Years 7–9: Annual AUD 34,852; four term instalments AUD 8,713; annual in advance AUD 34,068. - Years 10–11: Annual AUD 37,008; four term instalments AUD 9,252; annual in advance AUD 36,175. - Year 12: Annual AUD 37,008; billed in three instalments only (each instalment AUD 12,336); annual in advance AUD 36,175. - Boarding (additional to tuition): Boarding Years 7–11: Annual AUD 31,236; four term instalments AUD 7,809. Boarding Year 12: Annual AUD 31,236; billed in three instalments (each instalment AUD 10,412). Boarding fees include GST on taxable items. - Notes: Tuition fees include Outdoor Education programmes for Years 3–9, compulsory curriculum excursions, and subject and administration charges, unless otherwise noted. Tuition fees are GST‑free. Some Year 10 Quest programmes may incur additional cost. Compulsory and optional additional fees - Information & Learning Technology (compulsory): - Pre‑Primary: Annual AUD 240 (four instalments AUD 60). - Years 1–2: Annual AUD 476 (four instalments AUD 119). - Years 3–4: Annual AUD 536 (four instalments AUD 134). - Years 5–11: Annual AUD 864 (four instalments AUD 216). - Year 12: Annual AUD 864 (billed in three instalments; instalment amount shown AUD 288).* - Instrumental and vocal music tuition (optional): - Individual 30‑minute lessons: Annual AUD 2,064 (four instalments AUD 516). - Individual 40‑minute lessons: Annual AUD 2,744 (four instalments AUD 686). - Shared 30‑minute lessons (2 per lesson): Annual AUD 1,244 (four instalments AUD 311). - Instrument hire (where available): AUD 399 (one instalment). Lessons are based on 32 lessons per year; additional lessons may incur extra charge. - International Baccalaureate (Year 12) exam fee: the schedule shows a subject fee total of SGD 888 (the AUD equivalent will be applied at the exchange rate when the IB invoice is issued). The schedule also notes a per‑exam reference of $148 per exam in the IB box. Final AUD charges are applied at invoice time. - Other charges that may be billed at the end of each term include uniforms, text materials, optional activities and excursions; these items may include GST. PLC Parents Voluntary Membership annual subscription is AUD 65 per family (included on the first account for the year if applicable). Billing schedule and payment terms - Fees are charged on an annual basis and are payable in four instalments (one per school term), except Year 12 tuition and boarding fees which are billed in three instalments. Instalments and other charges are due and payable on the first day of each term. A late fee of AUD 150 will be charged on accounts not paid within 14 days of the due date unless prior arrangements have been made. Costs incurred in collecting overdue fees will be charged to the account. - Concessions and discounts: - 2.25% discount where the full year's fees are paid within 14 days of the commencement of the first school term (rounded as shown in the schedule). - Sibling discounts from tuition fees only: 5% for the second sibling, 10% for the third sibling and 50% for the fourth and subsequent siblings attending simultaneously (not available on boarding fees and cannot be combined with other offers). - Payment of fees in advance: tuition fees for 2027 may be paid prior to 30 November 2026 at the 2026 rate. Tuition fees for 2028 paid prior to 30 November 2026 will be charged at the 2026 rate plus 2.5%; any subsequent year paid in advance attracts a cumulative escalation of 2.5% per annum. Refund information and withdrawal terms - Registration fee: non‑refundable. Acceptance fee: non‑refundable and non‑transferable. - Notice of withdrawal: one academic term's written notice to the Principal is required before withdrawal or deferring commencement to a subsequent year. Failure to provide such notice renders the family liable for fees in lieu equivalent to 25% of the annual fee. In the event of withdrawal from the Boarding House during the year, unbilled boarding fees for the remainder of the year are payable unless previous arrangements have been made. Discontinuance from music lessons requires written notice at least two weeks prior to the end of a term or the following term's fees will be charged. - International students: the international enrolment process requires payment of the amount quoted in the Offer (which includes the Acceptance Fee and advance payment of one semester's tuition). If the enrolment does not proceed, a refund will be made in accordance with the school's Refund Policy as applied to international students. Fee payment options and practical note about payment methods - The fees schedule states that methods of payment are set out on the statement of account; the public fee schedule does not itemise specific payment channels (credit card, bank transfer, BPAY, direct debit, etc.) in the document itself. Instalment billing, advance payment and the discounts described above are managed through the College billing arrangements. Other practical items and charges - Outdoor Education for Years 3–9 and compulsory excursions are included in the tuition fees; some Year 10 Quest programmes and other optional activities may incur additional costs billed separately. Uniforms, text materials, transport/bus charges and optional co‑curricular activities are additional and may be billed each term. Brief note on information not specified in the public schedule - The fee schedule provides instalment amounts, advance‑payment rules, discounts, compulsory additional fees and several optional fee items, but it does not list the specific payment channels (for example, whether payments are accepted by particular credit card types, BPAY, bank transfer or direct debit) within the published schedule; the schedule states that methods of payment are detailed on the College statement of account. *All amounts shown are the published 2026 Schedule of Fees and Business Conditions figures as presented in the College's 2026 fees schedule.* |
| Diving deeper | Diving deeper | |
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Boarding arrangements
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Boarding arrangements Boarding is provided at Penrhos College through the Menai Boarding House. The House houses 100 girls from Years 7 to 12 on campus, with on-site residential staff around the clock and a Year 12 boarding buddy for new boarders. Boarders have individual rooms, kitchens on each floor and shared spaces, with a program of weekend activities to support social and academic life. | Boarding arrangements Boarding is offered in a Boarding House with the ABC@PLC transition program starting in Term 3 before entry, including Boarding Orientation, Technology Induction, and Weekly Online Classes. The Boarding House provides a holistic recreation programme, a Boarding House Tutoring Programme, weekly wellbeing activities, and a Buddy Programme to help new boarders settle in. Dormitories house Years 7–11 in rooms with 1–4 beds, while Year 12 boarders have single rooms (most with doubles); each room includes a wardrobe, chest of drawers, bed and a safe. |
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Uniform requirement
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Uniform requirement All uniform items are available from the Penrhos College Uniform Shop, and uniform fittings for new students must be booked in advance. School shoes are not sold at the Uniform Shop. | Uniform requirement Uniform Shop is PLC Lighthouse, 2 McNeil Street, Peppermint Grove WA 6011. Hours are Tuesdays & Thursdays 12:30 pm–4:30 pm, Wednesdays 8:00 am–1:30 pm, and on the Monday before term starts. Categories include dresses, jackets, hats, pants/shorts, shirts, skirts, socks/stockings, sportswear, swimwear. |
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Food options
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Food options Meals are included as part of boarding, as described in the Boarding Prospectus. The Menai Boarding House contains kitchens on each floor to support meal preparation. | Food options The Dining Room seats about 140 with outdoor seating for 25. The on-site catering team provides meals and snacks that are seasonal and nutritious. |
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House system
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House system Penrhos uses a house system with inter-house events and a House points tally, including the Interhouse Music Eisteddfod. | House system The school has a House System in the Senior School; The Black Watch is one of the houses. |
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Governance and ownership
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Governance and ownership Penrhos College is a Uniting Church school. The school's community is strengthened by the Penrhos College Foundation, plus Parent Support Groups and an Alumni Committee. | Governance and ownership The school is a College of the Uniting Church in Australia. Governance is provided by the PLC Council and the Senior Leadership Team. |
| Academics | Academics | |
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Curriculum details
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Curriculum details Penrhos College Secondary School provides a dynamic academic program for Year 7 to Year 12, supported by a dedicated Pastoral Curriculum. Pastoral Programs include Learn, Lead, Unite (Years 7–9); MyEducation (Years 10–12); Wellbeing Framework (Penrhos CONNECT); Community Service; Ngala Maya; and Global experiences, with leadership opportunities integrated across year levels. | Curriculum details Three distinct pathways help pupils achieve the Western Australian Certificate of Education (WACE): the ATAR pathway for university entry, the General/VET pathway for hands-on industry experience, and the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP). The Years 10 to 12 program is designed to challenge and prepare students for their next steps, whether that is university, vocational training, or the workplace. In Year 10, students follow a broad curriculum while building essential future-ready skills. In Years 11 and 12, the three pathways offer flexibility and depth, and cross-campus classes expand subject choices through Scotch College. Academic Support and Academic Extension provide targeted learning support and enrichment, with the Academic Extension programme described as Gifted and Talented. |
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Student teacher ratio
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Student teacher ratio — | Student teacher ratio — |
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Exam results
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Exam results Year 12 2024: Cohort size 136; 134 achieved WA Certificate of Education (WACE); 98.5% of students achieved WACE; 98% of students who applied for university entry via Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR) were eligible for entry; five of 26 ATAR courses were in the Top 15 WA Schools. | Exam results — |
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Higher education progression
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Higher education progression In 2024, 104 Penrhos Year 12 graduates pursued university study; 5 pursued TAFE or other training, 11 deferred, 9 working and 5 apprenticeships. Destinations include Curtin University among universities attended by graduates. | Higher education progression Graduates are prepared for university and tertiary education. |
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Gifted and talented
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Gifted and talented Gifted Education Specialist oversees enrichment and extension opportunities; differentiated programming is delivered within the classroom and through targeted activities to challenge high-potential students. Enrichment and co-curricular opportunities include music ensembles and drama performances, sporting teams and academic clubs such as Future Problem Solving, Philosophy Club, Chess, Debating, Maths Mentor and STEM. | Gifted and talented Academic Extension (Gifted and Talented) challenges high-ability learners through flexible, cross-year groupings and personalised learning experiences. Competitions and challenges include RAC Imagine Programme, Future Problem-Solvers, Solar Panel Car Challenge, AMT Maths Challenge, AMC Mathematics Competition, ICAS Assessments, and Writing Competitions. |
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Academic calendar
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Academic calendar — | Academic calendar — |
| Wellbeing & support | Wellbeing & support | |
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Social & emotional learning
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Social & emotional learning The school prioritizes wellbeing and positive relationships as foundations for growth. The Wellbeing Framework – CONNECT – centers on six themes: relationships, emotions, health, engagement, meaning and accomplishment. The pastoral curriculum provides explicit teaching of social-emotional skills and real-life opportunities to practice them. The school works in close partnership with families; psychologists and pastoral care staff collaborate with staff and parents for early intervention and tailored support. Evidence-based programs such as Kimochis, PATHS and Keeping Safe Protective Behaviours foster emotional literacy, empathy and resilience from the early years. | Social & emotional learning Pastoral care is at PLC Perth's core and supports holistic student development. Senior School cohorts have dedicated House Tutor Groups with a Pastoral and Academic Care Co-ordinator who tracks academic and personal growth. Deans of Wellbeing provide strategic leadership and proactive wellbeing strategies and interventions. Wellbeing is woven into College life through structured programmes and everyday interactions, teaching students to regulate emotions, manage stress, build positive relationships, and find joy and purpose. From Junior School to Year 12, the goal is to help every student build confidence, self-awareness, and inner resources to flourish in school, community and beyond. The PLC Lighthouse is integral to this approach, addressing physical, mental, and spiritual health with on-site facilities including psychologists, recharge rooms, and meditation spaces. |
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Special educational needs (SEN)
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Special educational needs (SEN) The Inclusive Education program is grounded in inclusion and individualized learning. A dedicated team of specialist teachers and education assistants supports students with diagnosed disabilities, learning difficulties, additional needs or educational risk across all year levels. They provide individualized programs and strategies to engage with the curriculum in a way that suits learning needs, strengths and learning style, including in-class differentiation, curriculum adjustments and modified programs where required. Targeted literacy and numeracy support, one-on-one and small-group instruction, and collaboration with classroom teachers and parents ensure learning alongside peers with dignity and confidence. English and Mathematics enhancement, gifted education and enrichment opportunities broaden access to full Penrhos experiences. | Special educational needs (SEN) PLC uses a consultative, data-informed approach to create tailored support plans for each student. Students with disability, including gifted students with a disability, and English as an Additional Language/Dialect are supported. The Learning Enrichment team works with students and teachers to provide in-class support aligned to each student's personalised education plan, helping create inclusive classrooms. Learning Enrichment classes for Years 7 to 10 provide targeted support in foundational literacy, numeracy, and executive functioning, with enrichment teachers coordinating across subjects to support social, emotional and academic development. The College also partners with on-campus allied health professionals, including an occupational therapist and a speech pathologist, to support students. |
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English as an additional language
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English as an additional language — | English as an additional language English as an Additional Language/Dialect is supported with data-informed support plans tailored to each student. The Learning Enrichment team provides in-class support for EAL students. Learning Enrichment classes offer targeted literacy, numeracy, and executive functioning support for Years 7 to 10. Pastoral and Academic Care Coordinators monitor progress and help support the social and emotional wellbeing of students. For international applicants, AEAS testing assesses English proficiency and may lead to a recommendation for English language support (ELICOS) before entry. Heads of School and Pastoral and Academic Care Coordinators oversee international student social and academic needs. |
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Mental wellbeing
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Mental wellbeing The school supports mental wellbeing through a proactive pastoral approach with a dedicated wellbeing team. The Wellbeing Framework – CONNECT – shapes the pastoral curriculum, focusing on relationships, emotions, health, engagement, meaning and accomplishment to support mental and emotional wellbeing. Psychologists and pastoral care staff partner with families to identify early intervention strategies and tailor support for each student. Evidence-based, age-appropriate programs like Kimochis, PATHS and Keeping Safe Protective Behaviours promote emotional literacy and resilience. The warm, inclusive environment helps students feel safe, valued and empowered to flourish. | Mental wellbeing Mental health is supported on campus through the PLC Lighthouse, a three-storey wellbeing facility. The Lighthouse houses psychologists, recharge rooms, and meditation spaces for relaxation and mental clarity. Wellbeing is woven into College life through structured wellbeing programmes, pastoral care, and everyday interactions that teach emotion regulation, stress management, and relationship skills. Deans of Wellbeing provide strategic leadership and proactive wellbeing strategies to guide cohorts and individuals. Vertical House Tutor Groups and senior mentorship provide ongoing emotional and social support. |
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Safeguarding
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Safeguarding Safeguarding is embedded in the wellbeing framework and pastoral care. The early years curriculum embeds Keeping Safe Protective Behaviours to promote personal safety, healthy boundaries and safe relationships. A culture of care and belonging supports safe and respectful interactions across the school community. The wellbeing team, including psychologists and pastoral staff, collaborates with families to identify safeguarding concerns early and provide tailored support. The school also emphasizes a safe environment through staff training and policies integrated within the pastoral framework. | Safeguarding The College has a Statement of Commitment to Child Safety and Wellbeing with zero tolerance for child abuse, grooming, and harm. The Child Safe Policy and Code of Conduct are available to staff, students, families, volunteers, contractors, and the wider community. The Student Wellbeing policies include counselling services, bullying prevention, and other safety procedures. Counselling Services Policy and Procedures (Students) are part of safeguarding. Concerns and Privacy policies provide guidance and a complaints handling framework to address concerns and protect privacy. |
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Safeguarding policy
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Safeguarding policy — | Safeguarding policy — |
| Facilities | Facilities | |
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Facilities overview
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Facilities overview The campus sits on one site in Como, housing Pre-Kindergarten to Year 12 with separate areas for Early Learning, Junior School and Secondary School. The Meg Melville Science Innovation Centre opened in 2021 supports STEM with collaborative learning spaces, multi-use laboratories, an outdoor laboratory, an amphitheatre-style presentation space and rooftop science courtyard. The Creative Arts and Design Centre spans three floors for Art, Design, Food, Textiles, Photography and Media studies, including teaching spaces, a library, studios for drawing, ceramics, photography and textiles, and dedicated food rooms. The Fandry Centre for Sporting Excellence provides expansive indoor court spaces, rock climbing walls, a fitness centre and a dance studio, plus outdoor tennis courts and a 50-metre heated outdoor swimming pool. Rixon Theatre is a 700-seat world-class theatre with an orchestra pit, a drama studio and dedicated music rooms and teaching spaces. | Facilities overview The school operates on one campus where Junior School, Senior School, and Boarding House thrive together. The single-campus setup fosters a strong sense of belonging and ease of transitions between stages. Students learn, grow, and connect in the same location, creating a vibrant, inclusive community across year groups. Shared resources include state-of-the-art facilities and co-curricular programmes that benefit every student. The PLC Lighthouse is a three-storey wellbeing facility supporting physical vitality, mental wellness, and community. |
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Sports facilities
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Sports facilities The Fandry Centre for Sporting Excellence covers indoor court spaces, rock climbing walls, a fitness centre and a dance studio, with teaching spaces, outdoor tennis courts and a 50-metre heated outdoor swimming pool. The Junior School includes an Olympic-sized pool used for swimming lessons and related activities. The campus supports a broad sport program including AFL, athletics, cricket, tennis, volleyball, cross country, netball and basketball as part of its co-curricular offerings. The outdoor sport and aquatic facilities are complemented by dedicated spaces for physical education and team training. | Sports facilities The Lighthouse houses a fully equipped gym and a dance studio. On-site physiotherapists support student fitness and recovery. The space includes tranquil meditation rooms and access to psychologists to support wellbeing. The gym and dance spaces form part of the campus sports and wellbeing facilities. |
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Academic facilities
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Academic facilities Meg Melville Science Innovation Centre opened in 2021 consolidates STEM with collaborative learning spaces, leading-edge laboratories and an outdoor laboratory, plus an amphitheatre-style presentation space and rooftop science learning courtyard. The Creative Arts and Design Centre provides three floors of facilities for Art, Design, Food, Textiles, Photography and Media studies, including teaching spaces, a library and AV room, plus drawing, ceramics and photography studios and textiles and food rooms. Across the campus, dedicated spaces support a unified K–12 learning environment with modern learning spaces and facilities for all subjects. | Academic facilities PLC Perth has a single campus with state-of-the-art facilities accessible to all students. The Lighthouse provides spaces that support wellbeing as part of learning. Shared resources include co-curricular programmes that complement classroom learning. Seamless transitions and collaboration across Junior, Senior, and Boarding life are enabled by the campus layout. |
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Extra curricular facilities
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Extra curricular facilities The co-curricular program offers Endless opportunities across Creative Arts and Design, Academic and Enrichment, Innovation and Technology, and Sport and Wellness. Junior School activities include Dance, choir ensembles, Junior Rock Band – PenRock!, Speech and Drama, and a range of academic and enrichment clubs. Secondary School options span a wide sport roster (AFL, athletics, cricket, tennis, volleyball, cross country, netball, basketball), plus swimming clubs, running clubs and involvement in events such as Curtin University Junior Games; there are additional activities in debating, mock trials and STEM-related clubs. Dragon Explorers is part of the broader co-curricular offerings. | Extra curricular facilities Co-curricular programmes are available to all students on One Campus. Buddy systems and Prefect-led initiatives promote mentoring and collaboration across year groups. The campus encourages participation in a wide range of activities that complement academic learning. The Lighthouse supports wellbeing through fitness, arts, and wellbeing spaces. |
| Parent experience | Parent experience | |
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History
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History Penrhos College was founded in 1952 when Methodist Ladies' College (MLC) Claremont purchased St Anne's School in Angelo Street, South Perth. Mrs Margaret Way, an MLC Claremont Old Girl and St Anne's parent, was appointed inaugural Principal to guide the early years. The college adopted a crest and motto linked to MLC Claremont and later moved to the Como site after land was granted there in 1966, with facilities expanding in the 1950s and 1970s. In 1975 the school's name was changed to Penrhos College and a new crest was introduced, symbolising both Penrhos' links to MLC Claremont and Western Australia. The college has continued to grow and evolve, opening the Early Learning Centre in 2011, celebrating its 60th anniversary in 2012, and launching Courage Starts Here as its strategic direction in 2023. | History PLC Perth was established in North Perth in 1915. The PLC Archives preserve the College's history and include items related to Old Collegians, Principals, past staff, Council members, Founders and the 2nd Cottesloe (PLC) Guide Company. The collection comprises photographs, textiles, books, trophies, reports and related materials, with a selection of digitised images available on Flickr. The PLC Archives are open on Mondays and Tuesdays. |
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Community
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Community The Penrhos College community is centred on active Parent Support Groups, the Penrhos College Foundation, and an engaged Alumni network. Parent Support Groups sit at the very centre of the community and play an invaluable role in enhancing the Penrhos experience for students and parents; the groups include Penrhos College Foundation, Penrhos College Alumni, and Friends of Penrhos such as Friends of Drama and Dance, Friends of Music, Friends of Rowing and Friends of Sport. The Penrhos College Foundation was established in 1987 to secure the future of Penrhos College and support the school's strategic initiatives, with a Foundation Board guiding major projects and scholarships. The Alumni Committee supports more than 10,000 former students with reunions, community events, networking opportunities, and ongoing engagement. | Community PLC Perth includes current families, the Old Collegians' Association and the PLC Foundation. The College hosts community events and programs across campus, including Whole School events such as the International Women's Day Breakfast and other News & Events items. First Nations Scholarships are available for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students entering Years 7 to 10 in 2027. Open Garden Day is a community event organized by PLC Parents. |
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Parent teacher association
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Parent teacher association The Parent Support Groups sit at the centre of the Penrhos community and rely on volunteers from parents and friends. The Penrhos College Foundation, established in 1987, fosters a culture of giving to support scholarships, buildings, and strategic initiatives through its board and leadership. The Alumni Committee supports more than 10,000 former students with reunions, networking, and ongoing connection with Penrhos. The groups include Penrhos College Foundation, Penrhos College Alumni, and Friends of Drama and Dance, Friends of Music, Friends of Rowing, Friends of Sport, with active Penrhosian Club and parent-year representatives who participate in school life and fundraising. These groups coordinate and contribute to campus life through events, fundraising, and ongoing engagement with the College. | Parent teacher association PLC Parents is a volunteer network within PLC Perth that engages parents in supporting the school. It appoints Year Representatives, New Parent Liaisons and Event Coordinators to run social gatherings, community activities and fundraising initiatives. PLC Parents Meetings are held once per term to involve all parents and carers. PLC Parents Fundraising supports student opportunities and non-core curriculum staff initiatives, including activities such as the School Fee Raffle. Open Garden Day is a notable PLC Parents event that underscores community involvement. |
| Extra-curricular | Extra-curricular | |
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Academic & intellectual
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Academic & intellectual Academic and enrichment activities at Penrhos include Academic fairs, Book Club, Da Vinci Decathlon, Debating and Mock Trials. Students can engage in problem-solving programs such as Future Problem Solving and Tournament of Minds, and join STEM+ and the Young Writers Collective. The program also offers leadership and research-oriented clubs, including Duke of Edinburgh, Ethics Olympiad, and a Library Committee. These activities develop critical thinking, collaboration and creative problem-solving beyond the classroom. | Academic & intellectual PLC Perth offers experiential learning with overseas, interstate, and regional trips that enrich academic learning and global awareness. Outdoor Education develops leadership, teamwork, problem-solving, and self-reliance in natural settings. Flight School provides glider training for Senior School students, building technical skills and confidence. PLC Perth is a Round Square member, connecting to a global network and IDEALS (International Understanding, Democracy, Environmental Stewardship, Adventure, Leadership, and Service), with opportunities for international conferences, exchanges, and service projects. |
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Arts & creative
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Arts & creative Penrhos runs a broad Creative and Performing Arts program with Band and Orchestra Festivals, Camerata Strings and other orchestras, and Chorale and Cantabile Voices choirs. Students participate in Coltrane and Basie jazz bands, Contemporary Bands, and a range of dance, drama and exhibition events. The program includes the Creative Arts Club, Dance Festival and Dance Showcase, Dramafest and various music and speech festivals. School productions, Music Eisteddfod and VOX provide performance opportunities for all levels. | Arts & creative The Senior School Music program offers instrumental and vocal lessons across many instruments, with more than 500 weekly lessons in the on-campus Music Building. Ensembles include chamber groups, choirs, concert bands, the guzheng ensemble, jazz bands, orchestras, and the renowned PLC Pipe Band, with performances throughout the year. The PLC Pipe Band provides Scottish cultural music and builds school spirit and community. The Performing Arts program includes drama productions and collaborations with Scotch College, with the Hazel Day Drama Centre serving as a premier venue for acting and musical theatre opportunities. |
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Cultural & language
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Cultural & language Languages program offers Japanese and French. All students in Years 7 and 8 study a language, and those continuing from Junior School can either continue Japanese or switch to French in Year 7. From Year 9 onwards, languages become elective subjects, enabling deeper study and cultural studies. Language learning is enriched by biennial language tours to France and Japan, exchanges with Hakata High School, and other immersive experiences. Penrhos also competes in the Education Perfect World Championships, regularly ranking among WA's top performers. | Cultural & language PLC runs overseas trips and language/culture immersion, including a China language-and-culture experience. The school is a Round Square member, linking to a global network and offering IDEALS-focused opportunities such as international exchanges, conferences, and service projects. These experiences extend beyond the classroom, broadening intercultural understanding through international exchanges and service initiatives. The China trip and other tours illustrate PLC's commitment to intercultural learning and language immersion. |
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Social & hobbies
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Social & hobbies Social and hobby options include a vibrant textual and performing arts calendar with Discussion Club, the Dance Festival and Dance Showcase, Jazz Night and Music Gala Night. Students can participate in School Production, Dramafest and other performing-arts events that foster collaboration and friendship. A broad range of sport and fitness options supports teamwork and wellbeing, from team sports to personal fitness programs. | Social & hobbies PLC's co-curricular programme spans academic clubs and challenges, music ensembles, sport, outdoor education, the arts, and wellbeing, supporting social connection and collaboration beyond class time. Junior School sport emphasizes developing a lifelong love of sport and provides a strong pathway into Senior School. Performing arts and music ensembles offer social engagement and teamwork opportunities, including collaborations with Scotch College for productions. The structured House Tutor and wellbeing framework further supports friendship-building, teamwork, and extracurricular involvement. |
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Community & service
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Community & service Community and service opportunities are provided through leadership roles and service initiatives. The Big Sister program offers mentoring, while Cultural Exchange and Year Representatives foster cross-cultural understanding and student voice. Student-led committees such as the SAGA (yearbook) Committee and the Library Committee provide governance and service opportunities, alongside the Sustainability Club. The Duke of Edinburgh program also contributes to community and service engagement. | Community & service Service Learning empowers PLC students to make a meaningful local, regional, and global impact, including Teach, Learn, Grow and Year 9 Service Leadership, plus initiatives such as Cooking for a Cause and the World's Greatest Shave. Junior School Community Service Learning weaves service into daily life, embedding outreach within classroom and school activities. Students engage with real-world issues through volunteering, tutoring, and community projects as part of the PLC ethos. |
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Leadership & professional
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Leadership & professional Leadership and professional development opportunities include Student Council, Form Captains and Year Representatives. Students contribute to governance and planning via Library Committee and the SAGA Committee, and lead initiatives through Cultural Exchange and Sustainability Club. The Duke of Edinburgh program provides adventure, leadership and service experiences. | Leadership & professional PLC nurtures leadership and service from Junior School through to Year 12, with experiential learning as the catalyst for confidence and character. Leading in action forms a core part of the program, building leadership from within through hands-on challenges, collaboration, and reflection. Round Square IDEALS offer global leadership experiences through international conferences, exchanges, and service projects. Alumni mentoring and networking via the Old Collegians' Association provide guidance and professional connections for current students. |
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Lifestyle & wellbeing
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Lifestyle & wellbeing Sport and fitness options include AFL, Athletics, Badminton, Basketball, Cricket, Cross Country, Golf, Hockey, Netball, Personal Fitness, Rowing, Self Defense, Soccer, Softball, Surf lessons, Swimming, Tennis, Volleyball and Yogalates. These activities promote teamwork, personal bests and physical well-being as part of the co-curricular program. | Lifestyle & wellbeing The PLC Lighthouse is a three-storey wellbeing hub addressing physical, mental, and spiritual health, including a gym, cardio room, pilates/dance studio, and on-site physiotherapy. Psychological and other allied health services are available on campus, with psychologists, therapists, and a health centre supporting student wellbeing. The Lighthouse campus features meditation and recovery spaces, plus access to on-site health and wellbeing resources through Lighthouse Services. Vertical House Tutor Groups provide ongoing pastoral and academic support to foster a nurturing wellbeing environment. |
| Language provision | Language provision | |
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Language provision
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Language provision French and Japanese are taught. All students in Years 7 and 8 study a language; those continuing from Junior School will have studied Japanese from Years 1 to 6 and can continue in Japanese or switch to French in Year 7. From Year 9 onwards, languages become elective subjects. Students develop skills in listening, speaking, reading and writing, and gain intercultural understanding. | Language provision French is taught in the Junior School with daily lessons from Pre-Kindergarten to Pre-Primary. In Years 1 and 2, French is taught four days per week, and in Years 3 to 6 students may continue French or switch to Mandarin. The Junior School language programme follows the IB Primary Years Programme (PYP). In Senior School, French is offered as a Second Language ATAR, and Chinese (Mandarin) is offered as First Language ATAR and Second Language ATAR courses. |
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Bilingual teaching
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Bilingual teaching — | Bilingual teaching — |
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Immersion programs
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Immersion programs Biennial language tours to France and Japan provide real-world language experiences. In alternate years, Penrhos hosts Hakata High School students, building intercultural understanding. Exchange programs offer further immersion, with options from four weeks to a full year abroad. Local activities such as restaurant outings, cooking experiences, Languages Day and foreign film festivals supplement language learning. | Immersion programs — |
| Reputation | Reputation | |
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Awards
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Awards — | Awards — |
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Accreditations
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Accreditations — | Accreditations — |
| Admissions | Admissions | |
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Admissions
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Admissions 1. Penrhos College accepts applications at any time and processes them in order of receipt; entry in Pre-Kindy, Kindergarten, Year 5 and Year 7 is in particular demand. 2. Applications require: a copy of the birth certificate, current immunisation record, two most recent school reports (Years 1–12), NAPLAN results (if applicable), and passport and family visa documents (if applicable); there is an application fee of 150 AUD (GST inclusive). 3. After submission, the Enrolments Team processes the application in order of receipt and you will receive written confirmation of receipt; your place on the waitlist is based on the date of the original application, so earlier submissions improve your position; preference on the waitlist is given to siblings of current students, to daughters/granddaughters/nieces of past students, and to siblings of Wesley College. 4. Enrolment offers begin two years before a student's anticipated start date; if the application is received within two years of commencement, the Enrolments Team will be in touch sooner; Penrhos accepts students at any time depending on availability and capacity; the offer process starts with an invitation to attend an interview with the Head of Junior School or the Head of Secondary School, and after a successful interview the Enrolments Team guides the family through the formal Offer and Acceptance process. 5. The Family Confirming Fee is a one‑off, non‑refundable, family-based fee that confirms each student's acceptance; the fee is paid to the Penrhos College Foundation and is not deductible from tuition; early registration is encouraged though vacancies do occur and the Enrolments Team can advise on availability. | Admissions Enrollment is managed through PLC Perth's Enrolling system. The Start Your Journey section presents the enrolment path, with Enrol Now and Book a Tour options to join PLC. A 2026 Schedule of Fees is published for day and boarding students, and a separate 2026 International Students schedule of fees applies. Scholarships and bursaries are offered annually to current and prospective students to recognise achievement and support access. For more information, contact the Admissions Team at (08) 9460 6555. The College address is 14 McNeil Street, Peppermint Grove, Western Australia 6011. |
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Scholarships
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Scholarships Red Dragon – Year 10 2027 Scholarship provides 50% remission of tuition for the remainder of Secondary Studies at Penrhos; additional remission of boarding fees may be considered based on need and boarding house availability; age: entering Year 10 in 2027; eligibility: Australian citizens or Permanent Residents residing in Western Australia who are not already enrolled at the College; applications close on Friday, 6 March 2026 at 12pm AWST. MADALAH Indigenous Scholarship provides a grant payment for the remainder of Secondary School studies at Penrhos; administered by MADALAH on behalf of the National Indigenous Australians Agency (NIAA); age: Year 7–9 (day students) or Year 7 (boarding) in 2027; eligibility: Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander descent and proof of descent, ABSTUDY eligibility or meet any gap payments, good school attendance and behaviour, home location in Western Australia; applications close on Friday, 26 June 2026. Penrhos offers a broad range of scholarships to celebrate students for their academic and/or extra-curricular strengths; more information is available on the Scholarships page. | Scholarships Scholarships and bursaries include First Nations Scholarships for boarding and day students entering Years 7–10 in 2027, with boarding included but not required to board; eligibility requires identification as a First Nations Australian and Abstudy eligibility. Applications open December 2025 and close 17 April 2026; documents required include the First Nations Scholarship Application Form, school reports, Year 3/5/7 NAPLAN results, birth certificate, a sample of written work, a handwritten statement, and a written reference. Selection considers academic progress, study skills, leadership, and contribution to PLC community, with family support and financial contribution required. Foundation Means-Tested Scholarships for Year 7 provide 100% tuition fees from Year 7 to 12; Applications opened 21 November 2025 and closed 30 January 2026, with testing on 12 February 2026 (remote testing available); a Parent Information Session and College Tour were scheduled, and applications require the Foundation Scholarship forms and supporting documents. Other bursaries include Old Collegians' Association Bursaries and Music Bursaries; Academic, General Excellence, and Performing Arts Scholarships have separate application windows and testing processes. For further details, contact Admissions at (08) 9424 6555. |
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Waitlist
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Waitlist A waitlist is used and places are allocated based on the date of the original application; earlier submissions improve position; priority on the waitlist is given to siblings of current students, to daughters/granddaughters/nieces of past students, and to siblings of Penrhos' brother school, Wesley College. | Waitlist — |
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