Presbyterian Ladies' College Melbourne vs St Margaret's Berwick Grammar

	P Presbyterian Ladies' College Melbourne Melbourne, Australia	S St Margaret's Berwick Grammar Melbourne, Australia
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year A$27,960 - 43,420	Fees / year A$8,708 - 36,696
Age range	Age range 0 - 18 years	Age range 3 - 18 years
Type	Type Girls School, Girls School (boarding)	Type Co-educational, Girls School, Boys School
Curriculum	Curriculum IB (DP), Australian Curriculum	Curriculum IB (PYP), Australian Curriculum
Pupils	Pupils 1,550	Pupils 801
Typical class size	Typical class size —	Typical class size 18
Instruction language	Instruction language English	Instruction language English
Opened	Opened 1875	Opened 1926
Bus service	Bus service No	Bus service No
Essentials	Essentials
Location	Location 141 Burwood Highway, Burwood, Victoria 3125, Australia	Location Berwick Campus (27-47 Gloucester Avenue, Berwick, VIC 3806, Australia) is home to the Early Learning Centre, Junior School and Senior Girls. Officer Campus (80 Tivendale Road, Officer, VIC 3809, Australia) is the Senior Boys campus.
Stages	Stages Early Learning to Year 12	Stages ELC and Junior School are co-educational. Senior School is single-sex with Senior Girls on the Berwick Campus and Senior Boys on the Officer Campus; Year 7–12 form the Senior School levels.
School type	School type Independent day and boarding school for girls	School type Independent private day school. ELC and Junior School are co-educational; Senior School is single-sex with Senior Girls and Senior Boys on separate campuses.
Pupil nationality mix	Pupil nationality mix —	Pupil nationality mix —
Additional learning support	Additional learning support —	Additional learning support English as an Additional Language (EAL) support is available as needed.
Country affiliation	Country affiliation Australia	Country affiliation Australia
Religious affiliation	Religious affiliation Presbyterian (Christian)	Religious affiliation Non-denominational
School day structure	School day structure —	School day structure —
Bus service details	Bus service details —	Bus service details Chartered bus services are provided by Alston Coaches, including SMBG1 Transfer between Berwick and Officer campuses and additional routes SMBG2 Warragul, SMBG3 Emerald, SMBG4 Cranbourne, SMBG5 Clyde. A free campus bus allows drop-off and pick-up at a single campus.
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 and Acceptance Fees - A non-refundable and non-transferable New Student Application Fee of AUD 130 (incl GST) per child is payable when lodging an enrolment application. - An Enrolment Acceptance Fee of AUD 2,200 per child is payable within 14 days of an offer of a place to confirm enrolment; Enrolment Acceptance Fees are neither refundable nor transferable. - For families transitioning a 4‑Year‑Old ELC child to Prep, a non-refundable deposit of AUD 2,000 is payable in Term 1 and is applied against the child's Prep fees the following year. Tuition Fees (annual and per term, by year level) Note: the annual Total School Fee shown below is the school's stated Total School Fees (Tuition Fees plus Consolidated Charges). Per‑term figures are calculated by dividing the Total School Fee by four (four school terms). - Pre-Prep (2 days): Tuition/A nnual total AUD 8,708 — Per term AUD 2,177. - Pre-Prep (3 days): Tuition/A nnual total AUD 13,059 — Per term AUD 3,265. - Pre-Prep (4 days): Tuition/A nnual total AUD 17,416 — Per term AUD 4,354. - Pre-Prep (5 days): Tuition/A nnual total AUD 21,767 — Per term AUD 5,442. - Prep: Tuition Fees AUD 19,372; Consolidated Charges AUD 3,799; Total School Fees AUD 23,171 — Per term AUD 5,793. - Year 1: Tuition Fees AUD 19,372; Consolidated Charges AUD 3,799; Total School Fees AUD 23,171 — Per term AUD 5,793. - Year 2: Tuition Fees AUD 21,971; Consolidated Charges AUD 3,960; Total School Fees AUD 25,931 — Per term AUD 6,483. - Year 3: Tuition Fees AUD 21,971; Consolidated Charges AUD 4,592; Total School Fees AUD 26,563 — Per term AUD 6,641. - Year 4: Tuition Fees AUD 21,971; Consolidated Charges AUD 4,592; Total School Fees AUD 26,563 — Per term AUD 6,641. - Year 5: Tuition Fees AUD 23,964; Consolidated Charges AUD 5,862; Total School Fees AUD 29,826 — Per term AUD 7,457. - Year 6: Tuition Fees AUD 23,964; Consolidated Charges AUD 5,862; Total School Fees AUD 29,826 — Per term AUD 7,457. - Year 7: Tuition Fees AUD 28,053; Consolidated Charges AUD 6,307; Total School Fees AUD 34,360 — Per term AUD 8,590. - Year 8: Tuition Fees AUD 28,053; Consolidated Charges AUD 6,307; Total School Fees AUD 34,360 — Per term AUD 8,590. - Year 9: Tuition Fees AUD 28,053; Consolidated Charges AUD 8,461; Total School Fees AUD 36,514 — Per term AUD 9,129. - Year 10: Tuition Fees AUD 29,505; Consolidated Charges AUD 7,191; Total School Fees AUD 36,696 — Per term AUD 9,174. - Year 11: Tuition Fees AUD 29,505; Consolidated Charges AUD 6,580; Total School Fees AUD 36,085 — Per term AUD 9,021. - Year 12: Tuition Fees AUD 29,505; Consolidated Charges AUD 6,580; Total School Fees AUD 36,085 — Per term AUD 9,021. Billing schedule and payment terms - Full‑year accounts are issued in December; account statements are available monthly via the School's Nexus system. All fees and charges are to be paid in advance. - Payment frequency options: annual (single payment), quarterly, or monthly instalments. Specific available options include: - Annual — by 31 January (single payment). - Quarterly — due 10 January, 10 April, 10 July, 10 October. - Monthly — 10 instalments on the 10th of each month commencing in January (10th of the month). - Any outstanding balance is to be settled by the School's stated final due date for the year (examples of instalment due dates and final settlement dates are provided on school accounts). Late payment administration charges of AUD 100 per instalment may be applied where an instalment is not paid by the due date. Fee payment options and finance - Primary payment is by Direct Debit from a bank account or by credit card via the School's Direct Debit arrangement. - The School works with an education payment provider (Edstart) that allows families to package school fees and education‑related costs and pay over extended periods. Edstart can include fees for uniforms, textbooks and extra‑curricular activities. Consolidated charges, levies and other compulsory/additional fees - Consolidated Charges: amounts are included in the Total School Fees and vary by year level (shown alongside Tuition Fees above). Consolidated Charges cover costs outside direct tuition (details vary by year level). - Building Levy: AUD 1,050 charged annually per family (families with children only in Pre‑Prep are exempt). - Payroll Tax Levy: a levy is charged to cover payroll tax where applicable; an example levy of AUD 1,600 per student (maximum AUD 3,200 per family) is applied in the School's stated schedule. Families with children only in Pre‑Prep are exempt from these levies. - Optional and other charges: charter bus services, music tuition, specialist coaching (e.g., tennis), booklists (purchased via Campion), uniforms (purchased via Noone Imagewear or the School's second‑hand uniform shop), and before/after school care provided by an external provider. Charges for optional activities and services are billed in January or as applicable. Boarding - Boarding is not provided as a school residence option. Homestay arrangements are used for international students requiring accommodation. Refunds, withdrawal and fee obligations - Application fees are non-refundable and non-transferable. Enrolment Acceptance Fees are neither refundable nor transferable. The ELC to Prep deposit is non-refundable and is applied to Prep fees the following year. - Written notice of one full term must be provided to the Principal when withdrawing a student before the end of an academic year. If required notice is not provided, one full term's school fees will be charged. Students who receive Scholarships must remain enrolled until the agreed completion date; if a student leaves early the family may be obliged to repay any tuition fee discounts granted under the Scholarship Agreement. Overdue accounts may result in withdrawal requests or restriction from participating in optional activities until accounts are brought up to date. - Where accounts are handed to debt collection, parents/guardians are liable for all costs including legal and collection fees. Late payments and penalties - A late payment administration charge of AUD 100 per instalment may be applied for instalments not paid by the due date. Students with overdue instalments may be prevented from attending voluntary camps or tours and families may be asked to withdraw children where fees remain outstanding. Legal recovery costs may be charged where matters are referred for collection.
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 Homestay is offered for international students as full-board accommodation with a host family. The arrangement provides a single room, three meals a day, utilities, cleaning services of common areas, study facilities, and use of living spaces, for a full school year (End Jan – Mid Dec).
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 school has two uniforms: Summer Uniform (Terms 1 and 4) and Winter Uniform (Terms 2 and 3). Uniforms are supplied by Noone Imagewear and can be purchased at Beaconsfield or Officer locations. A Second-Hand Uniform Shop on the Berwick Campus offers pre-loved uniform items.
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 —
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 The House System comprises Campbell (blue), Cunningham (red), Gipson (yellow). It is run across the School from Prep to Year 12 as a vertical, multi-age structure with Heads of House and Wellbeing leadership, enabling participation in a wide range of House-based sports and activities.
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 Governance is led by the School Council, which consists of up to 10 councillors. St Margaret's School is a Company limited by guarantee, trading as St Margaret's Berwick Grammar, and is a not-for-profit organisation. The St Margaret's Berwick Grammar Foundation Limited coordinates philanthropy and fundraising for the school.
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 The Junior School uses the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme (PYP). Specialist programs include learning two languages (French and Mandarin) alongside music, information literacy, art and more. The Senior School (Years 7–12) provides a broad curriculum with core subjects such as English, Health/Physical Education, Humanities, Languages (Chinese or French), Mathematics and Performing Arts, plus Science and a wide range of electives. Years 10–12 follow the Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE) with Units 1–4, and some VCE units may be offered off-campus via cross-campus arrangements. The Odyssey Year 9 Leadership and Character Development program runs into Year 10, and the Duke of Edinburgh Award program provides leadership experiences. A Careers/outcomes and university focus supports progression to tertiary study, with cross-campus pathways expanding subject choices.
Student teacher ratio	Student teacher ratio —	Student teacher ratio Small class sizes.
Exam results	Exam results —	Exam results Class of 2025 VCE Results: Duces of 2025 are Bridie Craig and Kiara Gunasekara (ATAR 99.25) and Oliver Pinnock (ATAR 96.2). Three students achieved an ATAR of 99+; 17% achieved 95+; 39% achieved 90+. 100% of students passed the VCE and 95% received offers from their top 3 course preferences.
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 2025 graduates had 95% of students receiving offers from their top 3 course preferences. Fields of study include Science (17%), Law (14%), Management/Business/Commerce (13%), Health (11%), Education (10%), Society/Culture (10%), Information Technology (7%), Architecture/Construction (4%), Engineering (4%), Psychology (4%). Tertiary destinations include Australian Catholic University, ANU, Bond University, Collarts, Deakin University, Monash University, Melbourne University, RMIT, Swinburne University, University of Melbourne, University of New South Wales, University of Queensland, and Victoria University, among others.
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 ASPIRE provides support and INSPIRE provides extension for students in the Learning Diversity program; the Junior School Learning Diversity department serves Prep to Year 6 with ASPIRE (support) and INSPIRE (extension).
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 school provides high-quality wellbeing programs that integrate pastoral care with academic progress. The Wellbeing program is anchored by the House System, which provides longitudinal pastoral support to students throughout St Margaret's Berwick Grammar journey. Through House and Mentor programs, every student has a designated teacher who is directly responsible for their wellbeing, supported by Heads of House and the Head of Wellbeing as part of a wider network of wellbeing staff. The program links academics, athleticism, artistry and adventure to progressively build relationships, strengths, purposes and resilience from a wellbeing and educational perspective. The Wellbeing team includes Directors of Academic Growth, school psychologists, and international student coordinators, with assemblies contributing to wellbeing and a program that is age-appropriate. The 5c's of Wellbeing—Communication, Community, Care, Connection and Curriculum—shape the approach, and the Growing Good Men program sits within this framework.
Special educational needs (SEN)	Special educational needs (SEN) —	Special educational needs (SEN) The Junior School Learning Diversity department supports identified learning needs with ASPIRE for support and INSPIRE for extension, providing personalised learning from Prep to Year 6. Staff work with classroom teachers, specialist teachers and Learning Assistants to tailor learning to individual needs and to stretch students' learning. Learning Diversity staff differentiate learning across all subject areas and enhance communication between students, parents, teachers and external agencies. They also write Individual Education Plans and undertake internal school assessments in English and Mathematics as required. Learning Diversity is a shared responsibility, with a commitment to knowing students and equipping them to reach their personal summit of success.
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 If required, students enrol in the English Language Intensive Course for Overseas Students (ELICOS) with a School‑selected provider, and evidence of enrolment is provided to St Margaret's Berwick Grammar. On completion of ELICOS, the school may request that the student extend their studies at the ELICOS provider or enrol in additional English as an Additional Language (EAL) classes upon commencement. Students are allocated approximately two EAL study sessions with a qualified teacher during a fortnightly study cycle, with the cost of the EAL program detailed in the International Fees.
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 Mental wellbeing is addressed as part of the wellbeing program. The Senior Boys Wellbeing Program aims to nurture and guide students to discover the best version of themselves, informed by the latest research and tailored to the needs of adolescents. The program brings together pastoral care and academic progress, with the House System providing longitudinal support and a designated teacher for wellbeing. The wellbeing framework includes Directors of Academic Growth, two school psychologists, international student coordinators, assemblies, and a structured framework that includes the school's 5c's of wellbeing: Communication, Community, Care, Connection and Curriculum. The Growing Good Men program is integrated into the wellbeing strategy.
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 St Margaret's Berwick Grammar provides a Child Safe and Wellbeing Policy, emphasising safety and wellbeing as the primary concerns and maintaining a zero-tolerance stance on child abuse. The policy commits to providing a child-safe environment where children feel safe and their voices are heard, with particular attention to Aboriginal children and children from culturally and/or linguistically diverse backgrounds, as well as students with disabilities or vulnerabilities, international students, and LGBTIQ+ students. The policy applies to all members of the School Community, including staff, council, volunteers, contractors and visitors, across all settings including excursions, camps, online environments and international student contexts. It aligns with safeguarding standards and outlines reporting obligations and duty of care responsibilities; Appendix 1 of the policy applies the standards at SMBG. The policy reflects the School's safeguarding commitments and the inclusive safety framework for all students.
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 The school has facilities that support learning from Early Learning to Year 12. Classrooms are equipped with technological tools and an individual laptop and device program enhances learning. The facilities include Rosanove Auditorium, a Performing Arts School, an Art and Design Technology Centre, and a High-Performance Centre. There are gymnasiums, sporting ovals, a VCE Centre, specialty science labs, food technology kitchens, and extensive libraries to support a broad curriculum.
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 Gymnasiums and sporting ovals are available for a range of team and individual sports. The High-Performance Centre provides dedicated training and facilities for athletic development. Outdoor ovals support field sports and PE activities. The facilities support sport and physical education across the school.
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 Rosanove Auditorium, Art and Design Technology Centre, and VCE Centre form core academic facilities. Specialty science labs and food technology kitchens support science and culinary subjects. Libraries are extensive. Classrooms are equipped with technological tools and the school operates an individual laptop and device program.
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 Performing Arts and Music offers co-curricular performance opportunities. There is an instrumental music program and an ensemble program including Junior Orchestra, Junior Vocal Ensembles and Choirs, and Junior School Productions. Private tuition is available from specialist music teachers. Artistry provides opportunities across art, design, dance, debating, drama and music.
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 St Margaret's Berwick Grammar began as St Margaret's School for Girls, founded in 1926 by Dora Gipson in the Toorak Presbyterian Church manse, and named for Queen Margaret of Scotland. The school moved to Malvern in 1927 and purchased the Berwick campus in 1929, opening at Berwick in 1930 with Campbell House as a boarding house. In 1941 the school consolidated onto a single Berwick campus, and in 1947 it was purchased by parents and Old Girls; the school was incorporated and a School Council was established in 1948. In 2009 a purpose-built boys' campus, Berwick Grammar, was established on Tivendale Road, Officer, to support growth and sporting facilities. In 2021 the two schools were formally brought together as St Margaret's Berwick Grammar, with a Diamond Education Model and a new visual identity.
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 Margaret's Berwick Grammar has a broad community framework including an Old Girls and Boys Association with over 2,000 life members. The Old Girls and Boys Association provides a link for former students to maintain friendships and participate in social activities. The St Margaret's Berwick Grammar Foundation coordinates philanthropy across the school community. News and Podcasts share school happenings, and the House Jog-a-thon is held as a community fundraising event for the Junior School.
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 The Parents' and Friends' Association is active and growing and runs a range of social and fundraising events. Mothers' Day Stalls and a Mothers' Day Lunch are held, with Chantelle Baxter as guest speaker. The Mothers' Day Lunch was sponsored by Peake Real Estate. The SMS and BGS Presentation Ball is hosted at The International Brighton, and a Bunnings Sausage Sizzle runs at Bunnings in Pakenham. The Second Hand Uniform Shop operates with volunteers to support families. The Twilight Fair is held every two years, with a Twilight Family Movie Night on the alternate year, and additional events include Fathers' Day Stalls, a Wine Night, a Dad's Breakfast, a Car Show and a Trash and Treasure Car Boot Sale; volunteers are encouraged to attend meetings.
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 an extensive range of co-curricular activities beyond the classroom. These opportunities include extensive academic enrichment programs, Drama, Music, Debating, and participation in sports carnivals and weekly competitions. The Year 9 Odyssey Leadership and Character Development Program provides leadership development and culminates in Year 10. The Odyssey program includes the Duke of Edinburgh Awards pathway with community service components.
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 The Arts program offers a broad Co-Curricular Arts menu: printing, painting, drawing, ceramics, photography, woodwork, and design, plus debating. The Performing Arts and Music program provides an instrumental music program and an ensemble program, with private tuition available. The Junior Orchestra, Junior Vocal Ensembles and Choirs, and Junior School Productions are among co-curricular opportunities.
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 Chinese and French are offered as languages within core studies. Global opportunities and cross-campus electives provide cultural exposure and field experiences. The Mungo/Central Australia Cultural and Community Service Journey is an optional cultural journey, and the Duke of Edinburgh Awards include a community service component.
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 Pupils can choose from a range of activities including Music and Performing Arts, Chess Club, Bricks for Kids, robotics, and Writers Club. These activities extend beyond the classroom and are designed to foster community, belonging and personal development. The program also includes cross-campus electives and curiosity pods to broaden 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 Mungo/Central Australia Cultural and Community Service Journey is an optional cultural journey with a community service component. The Duke of Edinburgh Awards are integrated into the program and include community service elements.
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 Year 9 Odyssey Leadership and Character Development Program leads students in leadership and personal development, culminating in Year 10. It focuses on organisation, independence, curiosity, goal setting, and leadership, supported by cross-campus elective opportunities and global experiences.
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 A broad physical education program and sport offering includes specialist sports staff, basketball, cricket, netball, soccer, softball, tee-ball, and tennis, with carnivals such as Athletics, Cross Country and Swimming. Health and Physical Education are part of core studies, and many co-curricular options supplement the sports program. Activities outside class include Music and Performing Arts, plus clubs like Chess Club and Writers Club that promote wellbeing through creativity and social engagement.
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 French and Chinese (Mandarin) are taught. In the Junior School, two languages (French and Mandarin) are offered as specialist programs under the IB Primary Years Programme. In the Senior School, languages are available as core subjects with Chinese or French in Years 7–10, and in Years 11–12 Chinese Second Language and Chinese or French are available as part of the VCE.
Bilingual teaching	Bilingual teaching —	Bilingual teaching —
Immersion programs	Immersion programs —	Immersion programs —
Reputation	Reputation
Awards	Awards —	Awards —
Accreditations	Accreditations —	Accreditations —
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 Online Enrolment Application begins the admissions process. The school is open entry and enrolls students throughout the year at all year levels, with main intakes at the start of the academic year in Early Learning (3-year-olds), Prep, Year 5, Year 7 and Year 10; there is no cut‑off. Expressions of interest are encouraged early, and current intakes include 2026, 2027 and 2028. Applicants must provide birth certificate, immunisation history statement for applications to ELC–Year 6, latest school reports, and visa documents if applicable; AEAS test results are required for English language entrants to Year 5 and above. An entrance interview with a senior staff member occurs when a place becomes available. Offers are typically sent about one week after the interview (two to three weeks after assessments for scholarship candidates), and acceptance requires signing the Offer, paying the Enrolment Confirmation fee and submitting required forms. Joining information is provided in the term before entry and joining details appear on the parent portal; tours and personal visits can be booked.
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 St Margaret's Berwick Grammar offers merit and means-tested scholarships. General Excellence Scholarships are available for Years 8–11; expressions of interest for 2027 are open. These scholarships support new students who would not otherwise attend SMBG and who demonstrate strong alignment with the 4 As (Academics, Athleticism, Artistry, Adventure). The remission amount varies according to need and availability; applications involve Apply and Interview. Academic scholarships (open in 2027 for 2029) and other categories (Music, Dance, Art and Design, Sport) have specific eligibility, audition/portfolio requirements and may be closed in some years; 2026 opportunities closed on 12 October 2026. Timelines for scholarship processing span from early March (open) to late June (offers). Register your interest for 2027 Scholarships; 2026 process includes milestones from March to June with offers in late June.
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 Waiting List: After receipt of a completed enrolment application, the child's application is added to the waitlist for the nominated year level based on the date of submission. Priority is given by date of application, then by sibling of a current student, then by children and grandchildren of old girls and boys. All joining students have an entrance interview with a senior staff member. If an offer is made, there is a 14‑day acceptance window. Offers are typically sent about a week after the interview; scholarship candidates may receive offers two to three weeks after assessments.
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