Presbyterian Ladies' College Melbourne vs St Leonard's College

	P Presbyterian Ladies' College Melbourne Melbourne, Australia	S St Leonard's College Melbourne, Australia
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year A$27,960 - 43,420	Fees / year A$300 - 59,415
Age range	Age range 0 - 18 years	Age range 3 - 18 years
Type	Type Girls School, Girls School (boarding)	Type Co-educational
Curriculum	Curriculum IB (DP), Australian Curriculum	Curriculum IB (PYP), IB (DP), Australian Curriculum
Pupils	Pupils 1,550	Pupils 1,576
Typical class size	Typical class size —	Typical class size 22
Instruction language	Instruction language English	Instruction language English
Opened	Opened 1875	Opened 1914
Bus service	Bus service No	Bus service No
Essentials	Essentials
Location	Location 141 Burwood Highway, Burwood, Victoria 3125, Australia	Location Bunurong Country, 163 South Road, Brighton East, VIC 3187, Australia. The campus is in the Bayside area of Melbourne. The South Road entrance is used for College activity and bus routes. St Leonard's College is Bayside's school of choice with the address serving as the primary campus location.
Stages	Stages Early Learning to Year 12	Stages Early Learning Centre (ages 3–5); Prep to Year 4 (IB PYP); The Cove (Years 5 and 6); Years 7 to 9 (Middle School); Years 10 to 12 (Senior School).
School type	School type Independent day and boarding school for girls	School type Independent, coeducational
Pupil nationality mix	Pupil nationality mix —	Pupil nationality mix —
Additional learning support	Additional learning support —	Additional learning support The Learning Enhancement Faculty provides dedicated, evidence-based support across the College. In Junior School, early identification and targeted literacy, numeracy and self-regulation support are provided; Years 5–6 use in-class and small-group programs with tailored adjustments; in Middle School, support develops self-advocacy, executive functioning and flexible thinking with classroom assistance and assistive technologies; in Senior School, teachers guide pathways including examination adjustments and special provisions.
Country affiliation	Country affiliation Australia	Country affiliation Australia
Religious affiliation	Religious affiliation Presbyterian (Christian)	Religious affiliation Presbyterian heritage (historical).
School day structure	School day structure —	School day structure Attendance times: ELC 8:30–12:00 or 3:00; Prep to Year 4 8:30–3:20; Years 5–12 8:30–3:35. Years 5–12 operate on a ten-day cycle; Years 7–12 timetable: 8:30–9:50 Period 1; 9:50–10:15 recess; 10:15–11:35 Period 2; 11:35–12:55 Period 3; 12:55–1:40 lunch; 1:40–2:15 Period X; 2:15–3:35 Period 4; dismissal 3:35.
Bus service details	Bus service details —	Bus service details The College Bus Service provides six chartered routes arriving near the South Road entrance at 8:15am and departing at 3:50pm each school day; stops connect to suburbs including Beaumaris, Bentleigh, Brighton, Caulfield, Cheltenham, Dingley Village, Elsternwick, Elwood, Hampton, Highett, Malvern East, McKinnon, Moorabbin, Mordialloc, Parkdale and Sandringham.
Fees	Fees
Fee details	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.	Fee details Application fees - Domestic (Australian citizens, permanent residents, temporary residents applying via the domestic process): non-refundable application fee AUD 200, payable when the online Application for Enrolment is submitted. - International (full fee‑paying overseas students applying on a student visa): non‑refundable application fee AUD 300, payable at time of application. An Enrolment Confirmation Fee of AUD 2,400 is payable on acceptance of an offer (non‑refundable, non‑transferable). Tuition fees (annual and per‑term by year level, domestic students — 2026) - ELC3 sessional (five mornings) — Annual: AUD 15,581. Per term (standard 4-term division): AUD 3,895.25. - ELC3 part time (four days) — Annual: AUD 24,320. Per term: AUD 6,080. - ELC3 & ELC4 full time — Annual: AUD 27,789. Per term: AUD 6,947.25. - Prep — Annual: AUD 25,183. Per term: AUD 6,295.75. - Year 1 — Annual: AUD 28,620. Per term: AUD 7,155. - Year 2 — Annual: AUD 28,620. Per term: AUD 7,155. - Year 3 — Annual: AUD 32,086. Per term: AUD 8,021.50. - Year 4 — Annual: AUD 32,086. Per term: AUD 8,021.50. - Year 5 — Annual: AUD 34,726. Per term: AUD 8,681.50. - Year 6 — Annual: AUD 34,726. Per term: AUD 8,681.50. - Year 7 — Annual: AUD 39,438. Per term: AUD 9,859.50. - Year 8 — Annual: AUD 39,438. Per term: AUD 9,859.50. - Year 9 — Annual: AUD 41,113. Per term: AUD 10,278.25. - Year 10 — Annual: AUD 41,152. Per term: AUD 10,288.00. - Year 11 — Annual: AUD 43,482. Per term: AUD 10,870.50. - Year 12 — Annual: AUD 42,903. Standard per‑term equivalent (dividing annual by 4): AUD 10,725.75; however, Year 12 fees are invoiced differently: Year 12 tuition is charged in three equal instalments (one‑third of the annual fee) in Terms 1, 2 and 3 — each Year 12 instalment therefore equals AUD 14,301.00. (Amounts above are the published Annual Tuition Fees for 2026; the per‑term figures shown are arithmetic conversions for clarity. For most year levels accounts are issued on a term basis as described below.) International (full fee‑paying) annual tuition fees — 2026 (summary) - Prep: AUD 36,891; Year 1: AUD 36,988; Year 2: AUD 36,988; Year 3: AUD 41,465; Year 4: AUD 41,465; Year 5: AUD 44,462; Year 6: AUD 44,462; Year 7: AUD 51,445; Year 8: AUD 56,477; Year 9: AUD 56,477; Year 10: AUD 56,866; Year 11: AUD 56,866; Year 12: AUD 59,415. International fee schedules and additional international charges (health cover, tuition deposit at acceptance, etc.) apply. Billing schedule and payment terms - Standard billing: fee accounts are rendered on a term basis and are issued one term plus 30 days in advance. Consolidated accounts show one‑quarter of annual consolidated fees on each term account (i.e., four equal term instalments). For Year 12, billing is in three equal instalments (one‑third of the annual fee) charged in Terms 1, 2 and 3. International full fee‑paying student accounts are issued twice per year and specific upfront deposits are required at acceptance as specified in the international offer. Notice of withdrawal must be provided one full school term in advance; failure to provide one term's written notice will result in one term's fees being payable. Enrolment bond / acceptance deposits - An Enrolment Bond is required for all accepted offers from 2026 onward to confirm enrolment; the bond amount is specified in the Acceptance of Offer documentation and is held and deducted from fees after a minimum period of attendance (the Enrolment Bond is forfeited if the student does not commence or complete the minimum required enrolment period). For the Early Learning Centre, a tuition deposit for Prep may also be required in certain circumstances and is deducted from the first account once the student commences. The non‑refundable admission (confirmation) fee required on acceptance is specified in the Acceptance of Offer. Boarding fees - Boarding is not applicable. St Leonard's College is a co‑educational day school with an Early Learning Centre; there are no boarding fees for students. Other costs and common additional charges - Camps and major experiential trips: Year 6 Canberra trip estimate AUD 2,000–AUD 3,000; Year 9 CUE Big Experience estimate AUD 5,500–AUD 11,500 depending on destination and program. These costs are additional to tuition where applicable. - International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP) annual registration/exam fee (2026): AUD 1,055 for Year 11/12 IBDP students. - Stationery, apps and class incidentals typically range by year level from approximately AUD 100–AUD 400 per year. - Musical instrument hire for curriculum lessons: AUD 245 per year (includes AUD 25 insurance). Private music lesson instrument hire: AUD 220 per semester. Private lesson fees per semester/term are listed separately in the Fees Schedule (e.g., private 30‑minute lessons approx. AUD 1,085 per semester). Speech & drama and music tuition fees are charged per lesson/semester as listed in the Fees Schedule. - Club Sport, Aesthetic Sports and other co‑curricular activities have separate semester or annual charges (examples include cheer, dance, gymnastics, basketball club fees, sailing, Taekwondo, swim program). Uniforms or costumes required for these programs are compulsory and charged separately. Payment is required prior to participation each semester/season. - Voluntary Building Fund contribution (tax‑deductible): an optional levy of AUD 460 per student per annum may be added to each quarterly account if families choose to contribute. - Bus fees, optional camps, optional music camps, competition travel and equipment, and certain elective program fees are additional and appear as separate line items. Instrument repair liability: parents are responsible for the first AUD 500 of repair costs on hired instruments; unrecoverable loss may be charged. Refunds and cancellation terms - Application fees and Enrolment Confirmation/Admission fees are non‑refundable and non‑transferable. An Enrolment Bond (where required) will be deducted from the first account after the student has completed the minimum enrolment period; the bond is forfeited if the student does not commence or does not complete the minimum enrolment period. Written notice of withdrawal must be provided one full term in advance; where such notice is not provided one term's fees will be charged. These conditions are part of the College's Terms of Business. - International students: specific refund rules apply for overseas students. Where enrolment is withdrawn in writing more than one term before commencement, Annual Tuition and Health Insurance Fees minus a cancellation fee of AUD 1,000 are refundable (Application Fee and Enrolment Confirmation Fee remain non‑refundable). If withdrawal is less than one term prior to commencement, the Application Fee, Enrolment Confirmation Fee and 25% of the Annual Tuition Fee are non‑refundable; health insurance fees may be refundable. If a visa application is rejected by the Department of Home Affairs and evidence is provided, Annual Tuition and Health Insurance Fees are refundable (Application and Enrolment Confirmation Fee are not). Refunds to international families are processed in Australian dollars to the party that made the original payment and, where approved, are processed within the timeframe set out in the international refund procedure. Fee payment options and methods - Accepted payment methods include: BPay; Credit Card (Visa and MasterCard — overseas credit cards for international students may be restricted per policy); Debit Card transactions; and electronic funds transfer (bank transfer). Cash payments are not accepted. Credit card details are taken for application payment (Visa/MasterCard only). For international students, a tuition deposit (50% of the annual tuition for the first study period) and other charges are payable on acceptance, and thereafter fees are payable term in advance or as specified in the international offer. Sibling discounts and concessions - Sibling discounts on consolidated fees apply where two or more children from the same family attend concurrently: 5% discount for the second sibling, 15% for the third sibling, and 50% for the fourth and subsequent sibling. The greatest discount applies to the fees for the lowest year level; sibling discounts do not apply to additional charges (non‑tuition items) and do not apply to international student fees. Key administrative notes on fee timing and obligations - Fees are subject to annual review and change; parents receive notice in advance of any change. Invoices are normally issued termly (one quarter of consolidated annual fees) and are payable within the College's stated payment terms; Year 12 fees are invoiced in three instalments. Failure to pay accounts or to provide required notice of withdrawal will result in fees being charged in accordance with the College's Terms of Business and may lead to collection action for overdue amounts.
Diving deeper	Diving deeper
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.	Boarding arrangements —
Uniform requirement	Uniform requirement The PLC Uniform Shop offers uniforms, school bags, accessories, stationery and crested goods. A new uniform collection was launched in 2023.	Uniform requirement The Uniform Shop provides the full range of St Leonard's College uniforms. The Uniform Shop is located at Dobsons, 348 Centre Road, Bentleigh, and online shopping is available with click-and-collect and home delivery. There is also a Secondhand Uniform Shop on Tuesdays during term time from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm.
Food options	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.	Food options Two in-house cafeterias offer a diverse menu including salads, soups, pastas and sandwiches with daily specials. The Middle School cafeteria operates on school days from 7:30 am to 2:00 pm (Years 5–9) and the Senior School cafe provides the same services plus barista-made coffee; Lunch orders are placed via the FlexiSchools online portal.
House system	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.	House system There are six Houses – Allen, Cullen, Forster, McMeekin, Munro and Newman – with students from Prep to Year 12 belonging to a House community. Students participate in House Events such as swimming, cross country, athletics and House Music to foster teamwork and House spirit.
Governance and ownership	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.	Governance and ownership The College is a registered Company limited by Guarantee. The College Council is responsible for the strategic direction of St Leonard's College, with Members largely drawn from current or past parents and alumni; The Council consists of at least nine and up to 12 members, and the Principal, Deputy Principal and Director of Finance attend meetings as executives. The Chair of College Council also serves as Chair of the Foundation; The Council operates eight committees, including Finance and Audit and Building and Property.
Academics	Academics
Curriculum details	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.	Curriculum details Prep to Year 4 follows the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme (IB PYP) for ages 3 to 12, focusing on inquiry, independence, and international-mindedness. The Junior School uses specialist teachers across English, Science, Mathematics, Humanities, Languages, Wellbeing, DigiSTEM, Drama, Art and Music. The Cove (Years 5 and 6) is a bespoke upper-primary program with dedicated teachers across English, Science, Mathematics, Humanities, Languages (Chinese, French or Spanish), Wellbeing, Self and Society, DigiSTEM, Physical Education, Drama, Art and Music. Middle School (Years 7 to 9) offers elective options and a Year 9 experiential learning SEA program, with curriculum informed by Harvard GSE and Monash and participation in the OECD 2030 project. In Years 10 to 12, students choose between VCE and IBDP, with Year 10 Course Guide 2026, Year 11 Course Guide 2026, and VCE Course Guide 2026 available.
Student teacher ratio	Student teacher ratio —	Student teacher ratio —
Exam results	Exam results —	Exam results Class of 2025 achieved a median ATAR of 95.5 for IBDP, 81.0 for VCE, and 87.45 combined. In 2025, 46% of students achieved 90+ in the combined results, 31.25% achieved 90+ in VCE, and 68.13% achieved 80+ in combined results; 54.69% of VCE students achieved 80+.
Higher education progression	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.	Higher education progression Monash University, University of Melbourne, RMIT University, Deakin University and Swinburne University of Technology were the most popular destinations for Class of 2025 VCE/IBDP graduates, with offers also made interstate to ANU, Bond University, University of Sydney and University of Queensland, and international offers from Harvard University and the University of the Arts London.
Gifted and talented	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.	Gifted and talented St Leonard's College offers High Potential Learning for Prep to Year 12 with opportunities to extend and enrich learning. The program includes enrichment activities such as OzClo, BrainSTEM Innovation Challenge, Computational and Algorithmic Thinking, da Vinci Decathlon, Ethics Olympiad, Future Problem Solving, Informatics, Mooting and Tournament of the Minds.
Academic calendar	Academic calendar —	Academic calendar —
Wellbeing & support	Wellbeing & support
Social & emotional learning	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.	Social & emotional learning The WISE Wellbeing framework is used across the College from the Early Learning Centre to Year 12, guiding student wellbeing through four domains: Warm Hearts, Inspired Futures, Strong Minds and Engaged Beings. Mentors and Heads of Year provide individualized support and monitor academic and personal progress to ensure each student feels known, nurtured and supported. The Cocurricular program supports students' intellectual, personal, physical, social and emotional growth through a wide range of activities. The Wellbeing Centre, opened in 2023, provides a dedicated space for group activities and peer connections, reinforcing a nurturing environment. Wellbeing initiatives include the Personal Development Program (PDP), external presenters and SchoolTV resources for students and parents, supporting a holistic approach to wellbeing.
Special educational needs (SEN)	Special educational needs (SEN) —	Special educational needs (SEN) Counselling Services address cognitive and emotional strengths, provide educational support, and assist with social and behavioral concerns; they also offer support for family difficulties and special needs. This indicates the College provides direct support for students with special educational needs through its counselling team.
English as an additional language	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.	English as an additional language The Program for Language Acquisition and Cultural Engagement (PLACE) supports students from non-English speaking backgrounds to transition into mainstream classes and life in Australia. PLACE offers Intensive English Language (IEL) entry streams and English as an Additional Language (EAL) entry streams to support language development and transition to mainstream classes. IEL provides targeted English development embedded in the timetable, with small class sizes and transition timeframes to entry mainstream. EAL classes bridge the gap between current English level and the demands of mainstream subjects for eligible students in Year 8 or above, with AEAS testing and external EAL eligibility guidelines. PLACE staff assist with subject selection and university entrance information; intake begins at the start of Term 1 or Term 3.
Mental wellbeing	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.	Mental wellbeing The Wellbeing framework (WISE) is used across the College to foster holistic development in four domains: Warm Hearts, Inspired Futures, Strong Minds and Engaged Beings. The framework supports student agency and wellbeing as central to thriving at school. Mentors and Heads of Year provide individualized support and monitor academic and personal progress, ensuring students feel known, nurtured and loved. The College Psychologists and Chaplain offer counselling services addressing cognitive, emotional and social challenges, and assist families with special needs. The Wellbeing Centre opened in 2023 to provide a space for wellbeing activities and peer connections; PDP, external presenters and SchoolTV resources support wellbeing for students and parents.
Safeguarding	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 The College has a zero-tolerance policy for child abuse and prioritises children's safety through a comprehensive Child Safety and Wellbeing Framework. The Framework includes a Child Safety and Wellbeing Policy, a Code of Conduct, a Complaints and Concerns Procedure, and a Response and Reporting Procedure. Staff and volunteers complete mandatory child safety training upon commencement. There are formal reporting procedures for concerns, including mandatory reporting channels and steps to contact authorities if a child is in danger; in emergencies, the Police should be called at 000. Any member of the College community has a responsibility to raise concerns about a child's safety under the policy.
Safeguarding policy	Safeguarding policy —	Safeguarding policy —
Facilities	Facilities
Facilities overview	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.	Facilities overview St Leonard's College has a performing arts centre, systems engineering laboratories, and sports complexes, along with collaborative learning spaces. There are well-equipped libraries and a visual arts centre. Expansive grounds support outdoor learning and recreation. A Facilities Virtual Tour is available to explore the campus.
Sports facilities	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.	Sports facilities Interschool Sport is offered for Years 5 to 12 with ACS competition. A broad roster of sports is offered, including athletics, Australian Rules football, badminton, basketball, cricket, cross country, futsal, hockey, netball, soccer, softball, swimming, table tennis, tennis, touch football and volleyball. Facilities and coaching staff support the program.
Academic facilities	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.	Academic facilities Systems engineering laboratories support hands-on technology learning. Collaborative learning spaces support group work and cross-subject projects. A well-equipped library supports study and research. A visual arts centre provides dedicated spaces for art education. Expansive grounds facilitate outdoor learning opportunities.
Extra curricular facilities	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.	Extra curricular facilities The Hart Theatre Company offers five annual productions, including three musicals and two plays. The music program provides solo performances, choir, bands, jazz ensembles and orchestras. The Visual Arts cocurricular program covers drawing, painting, sewing, construction and design, with exhibitions across the year. The Swimming Club and Swim School run learn-to-swim, club-based squad training, interschool competition, and adult fitness squads.
Parent experience	Parent experience
History	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.	History The school began in 1914 with eight enrolled students in a church hall. Miss Cullen purchased the school in 1915 and moved it to Were Street in 1930. In 1946 the Presbyterian Church purchased the school. Coeducation began in 1972, marking a major milestone in the College's history. In 2022 the College celebrated the 50th anniversary of coeducation and 50 years of Outdoor Education, alongside 40 years of offering the International Baccalaureate Diploma.
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.	Community St Leonard's College has a vibrant community that includes parent volunteering, seminars, social activities, and programs supporting international families. The English Language Conversation Club helps international parents improve English and connect with the community. The Community Day Fair is a flagship yearly event with rides, food stalls, performances, and family activities. The Amiel Society coordinates social responsibility initiatives, including Lennie's Van, linking students, staff and families in community outreach.
Parent teacher association	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.	Parent teacher association St Leonard's College maintains a robust parent volunteer network that engages with College life through class representatives, the College Council, and a range of volunteering roles. Examples of volunteer opportunities include joining the College Council, serving as a team manager for Club Sport, helping with productions, working on the Community Day Fair, becoming a Class Rep, baking for Lennie's Van, accompanying on excursions, and sharing your knowledge as a guest speaker. Parent volunteers staff the Secondhand Uniform Shop and help with a variety of parent-led events. The College offers Parent Seminars and social activities such as welcome mornings teas, twilight picnics, guest speaker breakfasts, and year-level gatherings. A Volunteer Registration process ensures compliance with the Victorian Child Safe Standards.
Extra-curricular	Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual	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.	Academic & intellectual The school offers a broad cocurricular program with numerous academic competitions and clubs. Students participate in OZCLO (Australian Computational and Linguistics Olympiad), Brain STEM Innovation Challenge, the da Vinci Decathlon, the Computational and Algorithmic Thinking Competition, Future Problem Solving, and the Informatics Club. Debating, Mooting, Public Speaking, and Chess are also available to develop critical thinking and communication skills. Model United Nations is offered for senior students, supporting opportunities in diplomacy and policy discussion.
Arts & creative	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.	Arts & creative Arts thrive through the Hart Theatre Company, which produces five performances annually, including three musicals and two plays, with students involved on stage and behind the scenes. The Music Program offers solo performances, choir, bands, jazz ensembles, and orchestras. The Visual Arts cocurricular program covers drawing, painting, sewing, construction and design, with ceramics, exhibitions of student work, and opportunities to explore open studio and design lab activities.
Cultural & language	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.	Cultural & language Languages offered by the College are Chinese, French and Spanish. Language study is undertaken by all students from Prep through to the completion of Year 9, becoming optional from Year 10 onward. PLACE (Program for Language Acquisition and Cultural Engagement) supports international students with English language development and cultural transition, including Intensive English Language and English as an Additional Language entry streams. There are English Language Conversation Club and International Friends Group to help families engage with the community.
Social & hobbies	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.	Social & hobbies The cocurricular program includes social and hobby groups such as Art Club, Board Games, Chess, Debating, Model United Nations, and Public Speaking, fostering collaboration and social connections across year levels. House-based Competitions and the Junior School Running and Fitness program provide ongoing team-based activities. Ethics Olympiad and Future Problem Solving are among the additional clubs and competitions that broaden student interests.
Community & service	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.	Community & service Service is an integral part of Experiential Education at St Leonard's College. The program emphasizes action, reflection and community engagement across Junior to Senior years, guiding students to contribute meaningfully to society.
Leadership & professional	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.	Leadership & professional The Duke of Edinburgh Award is offered for Years 9 to 12. Student leadership programs and personal development activities are central to the cocurricular program, providing opportunities to build leadership, teamwork and career-related skills.
Lifestyle & wellbeing	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.	Lifestyle & wellbeing Outdoor Education runs across Years 2 to 10 with overnight camps and year-level experiences that blend adventure with personal growth and environmental education. Yearly programs include the Year 2 Sleepover, Year 3 Anglesea camp, Camp Ibis for Years 4–8, and the Year 9 Big Experience, followed by a Year 10 hike. The College is affiliated with Outdoors Victoria to support outdoor learning, and students participate in Interschool Sport, Club Sport, and Swimming Club to promote physical wellbeing.
Language provision	Language provision
Language provision	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.	Language provision Languages offered by the College are Chinese, French and Spanish. Language study is undertaken by Prep through to Year 9, becoming optional from Year 10 onward. Eligible students from non-English speaking backgrounds may study English as an additional language (EAL) in Years 7 to 12. PLACE (Program for Language Acquisition and Cultural Engagement) provides language development and cultural preparation, including Intensive English language (IEL) entry streams and EAL entry streams.
Bilingual teaching	Bilingual teaching —	Bilingual teaching —
Immersion programs	Immersion programs —	Immersion programs —
Reputation	Reputation
Awards	Awards —	Awards null
Accreditations	Accreditations —	Accreditations null
Admissions	Admissions
Admissions	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.	Admissions 1. Families apply online via the Application for Enrolment and pay a $200 non-refundable application fee. Admission depends on the availability of places, a satisfactory interview and assessment, the College's capacity to provide an appropriate program for the child, and acceptance of the College Terms of Business. Upon receipt, the child's name is added to the waiting lists for the nominated year levels. Families should read and understand the College Terms of Business and the Admissions Policy prior to submitting.
Scholarships	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.	Scholarships Aspire Scholarships comprise Leonardian Scholarships, Global Citizen Scholarships, and Indigenous Scholarships. Leonardian Scholarships may be awarded to prospective students entering Years 7 to 11; applicants must meet financial eligibility criteria via a means test and must be Australian citizens or permanent residents. Applications close on 1 August each year and should be sent in writing to the Head of Engagement with a written statement, references, two most recent school reports, testing results, and proof of citizenship or permanent residency; shortlisted applicants may be invited to interview. Global Citizen Scholarships are for prospective students entering Years 7 to 11 who immigrated to Australia on a refugee visa in the past 24 months; applicants must demonstrate sound academic ability and a commitment to completing secondary studies and contributing to the College community; financial eligibility criteria apply and permanent residency is required. Applications close on 1 August and should be sent to the Head of Engagement with a written statement and two school reports, plus evidence of permanent residency; shortlisted applicants may be invited to interview. Indigenous Scholarships are for Indigenous students entering Years 7 to 11; eligibility includes meeting financial criteria and demonstrating commitment to the College community; applications close on 1 August and should be sent to the Head of Engagement with supporting documentation; shortlisted applicants may be invited to interview. All Aspire Scholarships are tenable to the completion of Year 12 and cover tuition costs and charges for the standard program, including technology access and excursions; the number of awards varies and awards are made at the Principal's discretion; a full list of fee inclusions is available in the handbook.
Waitlist	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.	Waitlist Names are added to the waiting lists for the nominated year levels upon receipt of the online Application for Enrolment. Waitlist priority is given to children who are permanent staff members, to siblings of enrolled students, and to children of Old Collegians. Admission remains subject to place availability and to a satisfactory interview and assessment.
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