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Narrabundah College

Australia, Canberra

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The school at a glance
Instructs in English
Fees A$11,100 - 14,500
Ages 16 - 18 years
Pupil numbers 922
Type Co-educational
Bus Service No
Academic offering
Curriculum Australian Curriculum, IB (DP), French Curriculum
Taught languages Mandarin, Hindi, Indonesian, Japanese, Korean, French, German, Italian, Spanish
Strengths STEM, Languages, Visual and Creative Arts
Clubs Arts and Creative, Cultural and Language, Community and Service
Stages Senior Secondary School
Introduction

Narrabundah College is a senior secondary college in Canberra offering three pathways for students aged 16–18: the Australian Senior Secondary Certificate with ATAR, the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IB DP) for Years 11–12, and a French Baccalaureat pathway delivered in a French-language stream. The college educates about 1,000 Year 11–12 students and provides a curriculum anchored in the Australian framework while offering IB and French-language routes to broaden university options. The IB Diploma is a two-year program with six subjects (three Higher Level and three Standard Level) plus core components—Extended Essay, CAS, and Theory of Knowledge. In Year 12, ATAR and IB assessment tasks are integrated within timetabled courses. The French Baccalaureat pathway is taught in French as part of the French-stream pathway. A new Design, Arts, Technology and Science building (DATS), valued at about $31.9 million, is under construction with completion planned for 2027 and a subsequent move-in for staff and students. Seven languages are taught, and the school hosts students from more than 60 countries.

The Essentials

Narrabundah College has 922 pupils, instruction in English.

Location
Located on Jerrabomberra Avenue in Narrabundah, Canberra, ACT 2604. The ACT Government's integrated public transport network provides bus and light rail options to access the campus. Walking or cycling to school is encouraged to reduce traffic and improve safety.

Stages
Senior secondary college for Years 11 and 12

Type
Senior secondary college; offers ACT Senior Secondary Certificate, International Baccalaureate, and French Baccalaureate

Pupil Nationality Mix
Over 60 countries represented; international atmosphere

Additional learning support
Targeted and strong student support over the two-year college program
Diving Deeper

Uniform Requirement
CLOTHING must be inoffensive and appropriate for a school setting.

Food Options
The college has a canteen on site. The canteen operates between 9:00am and 2:00pm and supplies a large variety of hot and cold foods, drinks and vegetarian meals. A lunch ordering service is available each morning; profits from canteen sales go to the college and help buy equipment you use.

Governance and Ownership
Governance is via the Narrabundah College Board and the Narrabundah College Parents and Citizens Association; the P&C Constitution provides for community members to be elected to the College Board and to provide for a canteen.
Fees

Annual tuition at Narrabundah College ranges from AUD 11,100 to AUD 14,500 for 2026/27.

Application fees

- Application (non-refundable): AUD 265.

Tuition fees by year group (annual and per term)

- Primary (Kindergarten – Year 6): AUD 11,100 per year (AUD 2,775 per term, calculated on a four-term year).

- Secondary (Years 7 – 10): AUD 14,500 per year (AUD 3,625 per term).

- College (Years 11 – 12): AUD 16,200 per year (AUD 4,050 per term).

Billing schedule and payment terms

- Tuition fees are payable in Australian dollars and are charged for the academic year; payment is required in advance for the year of enrolment. Continuing students will receive an invoice for the following year during Term 4. Acceptance of an offer requires payment as specified on the offer. Requests for payment plans by temporary residents may be considered, but payment plans are not available for students on visa subclass 500 (school sector).

Boarding / Accommodation (homestay) fees (where applicable for international students)

- The college does not operate a boarding house. Homestay services are arranged through the ACT homestay provider (AHN) and include:
- Homestay matching fee: AUD 340 (payable at acceptance of offer).
- Homestay weekly payment (example rate listed): AUD 400 per week (payable to AHN).
- Family-nominated homestay program matching/payment: AUD 340 matching fee and AUD 50 per week family-nominated homestay payment where applicable.
- Airport pick-up (optional): AUD 160 (payable to AHN).

Other costs and fees

- Parent contributions:
- General contribution: AUD 200 per year.
- Resources contribution (paid on enrolment): AUD 100 (covers ID card, yearbook, textbook hire, printing allowance).

- Subject consumables and curriculum-related charges (examples; invoiced at the start of each session):
- Ceramics: AUD 60 (session 1), AUD 120 (session 2); Design: AUD 40 / AUD 80; Photography: AUD 65 / AUD 130; Food and Technology: AUD 60 / AUD 120; Graphic Design / Architecture / Engineering: AUD 40 / AUD 80; Information Technology: AUD 40 / AUD 80; Media: AUD 30 / AUD 60; Music: AUD 30 / AUD 60; Textiles and Fashion: AUD 50 / AUD 100; Visual Art: AUD 60 / AUD 120; Wood Technology: AUD 60 / AUD 120; Dance: AUD 80. These fees are charged per subject session and may change.

- International Baccalaureate (IB) programme fees:
- IB entrance contribution (payable prior to starting the IB course): AUD 1,200 in addition to normal parent contributions.
- IB external examination charges (students pay their own exam fees): a full IB Diploma (six subjects plus Theory of Knowledge, Extended Essay and CAS) is approximately AUD 1,100 (amount depends on exchange rates and exact exam entries).

- French Baccalauréat fees (where applicable): approximately AUD 530 in Première for the online second language platform (LVB) and AUD 830 in Terminale. Amounts are approximate and may vary with exchange rates.

- Additional items not covered by tuition: school uniform, book packs, personal materials used to make items taken home, non-curriculum excursions, private tutoring, canteen purchases, optional trips and activities (international excursions, holiday trips). Fees for optional activities are charged separately.

Refund information

- The initial application fee (AUD 265) is non-refundable. Tuition refunds for enrolment withdrawal are handled by the International Education Unit and follow a pro-rata schedule depending on when written notification is received:
- Withdrawal before 9:00 am on day 1 of the academic semester: 90% of the unused portion of tuition refunded.
- Withdrawal before 5:00 pm on Friday of Week 4 of the academic semester: 50% of the unused portion of tuition refunded.
- Withdrawal in Week 5 or later of the academic semester: no refund.
- No refund applies if enrolment is cancelled because of breaches of visa conditions (for example attendance below 80%, unsatisfactory academic progress or non-compliance with welfare conditions). Refunds to overseas bank accounts take longer (approximately four weeks after processing); domestic electronic funds transfers typically take two to three weeks.

Fee payment options

- Payments can be made by electronic funds transfer (EFT) to the ACT Education Directorate bank account; international telegraphic transfers may be used and should include the student name as payment reference. Bank details (example provided for payments) include Westpac BSB 032‑777, Account Number 000065 and SWIFT code WPACAU2S. Evidence of payment should be provided with application materials where required. Credit card (Visa and Mastercard) payments are accepted for application and other fees. Payments for parent contributions can also be made in person at the college reception (Visa/Mastercard), by telephone, or via the college's online payment system (Quickweb).

Important administrative notes (fees-related)

- Tuition fees are set by the ACT Minister or delegate and are charged on a cost-recovery basis for temporary visa holders; the Directorate publishes the applicable rates and manages fee waivers and exemptions according to policy. Fee-exemption, waiver and refund requests are managed by the International Education Unit.
Academics

Narrabundah College teaches Australian Curriculum, IB (DP), French Curriculum for students aged 16 to 18.

Curriculum
Curriculum Handbook 2026 provides the current course and subject offerings. Narrabundah offers the Australian Senior Secondary Certificate with ATAR, the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme for Years 11–12, and a French Baccalauréat pathway through a French-language stream. The IB Diploma is a two-year program for students aged 16–18, with six subjects (three Higher Level and three Standard Level) plus core components including Extended Essay, CAS and Theory of Knowledge, designed to prepare students for university study. Classes in Year 12 combine ATAR and IB assessment tasks. The French Baccalaureat is taught in French as part of a French-stream pathway.

Exam Results
IB Diploma uses a 45-point scale; a minimum of 24 points is required to be awarded the Diploma; the IB Diploma score is converted to an equivalent ATAR for entry to ACT/NSW/VIC universities and is recognised by Australian universities.

Higher Education Progression
Universities recognise the IB Diploma for entry; the Diploma score can be converted to an ATAR for ACT/NSW/VIC universities; the IB Diploma provides direct and recognised entry to tertiary education both in Australia and worldwide.
Wellbeing

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)
Targeted and strong student support is provided over two years. The School Psychologist is available to assist students or their parents with issues that may affect learning, including health problems, family or relationship conflicts and motivational difficulties. The Transition and Careers Officer supports students with transitions from high school, career planning, work experience and post‑college options. N Groups meet weekly to develop study skills, time management and self-care and to help students access available resources. There is an Indigenous Contact Officer available to support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students. International Private Students are supported by the Languages Centre Coordinators who assist with enrolment, course choices and other issues relating to Narrabundah College. If you are worried about academic performance, attendance or other problems, you can speak with a Student Adviser or the Psychologist.

Special Educational Needs (SEN)
Special education needs are overseen by the Special Needs Committee. The School Psychologist provides support to students and parents for issues that may affect learning, including health problems, family or relationship conflicts and motivational difficulties. The Transition and Careers Officer and Student Advisers offer academic and personal support as part of the college's SEN framework. N Groups meet weekly to build study skills and self-care. Indigenous Contact Officer provides support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students. International Private Students' coordinators in the Languages Centre assist with enrolment and course choices.

English as an Additional Language (EAL)
ESL – English as an Additional Language units are offered within English and Literature, including ESL (AC) 1.0 unit from English/Literature. ESL is integrated into English/Literature courses, with ESL/English combinations forming integrated courses. The college offers seven languages and encourages language study. International Private Students are supported by Languages Centre coordinators who assist with enrolment and course choices.

Mental Wellbeing
The School Psychologist is available to assist students or their parents with issues that may impact learning. If you are worried about academic performance, attendance or other problems, you can speak with a Student Adviser or the Psychologist. N Groups meet weekly to support study skills, time management and self-care. Mental health crisis resources are listed, including Headspace, Lifeline and other services for crisis support (phone numbers and online options are provided).

Safeguarding
Your Welfare indicates that if you are worried about academic performance, attendance or other problems you should see a Student Adviser or the Psychologist. The School Psychologist and Student Advisers are available to support safeguarding needs. N Groups provide ongoing self-care and access to resources. There is an Indigenous Contact Officer available to support Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students. International Private Students are supported by Languages Centre coordinators with enrolment and course choices. The college also uses a mediation pathway for resolving student concerns, including Student Mediation and meetings with Parents/Carers to address issues.
Parent Experience

Community
Narrabundah College delivers a senior secondary curriculum to approximately 1000 year 11 and 12 students and welcomes many international students each year. The college has an international atmosphere with students from many different cultural backgrounds from over 60 countries of origin. There are strong partnerships with parents/carers and the community.

Parent Teacher Association (PTA)
The Narrabundah College Parents and Citizens Association Incorporated is a non-profit organisation (Association No: A00693) that supports Narrabundah College and provides a forum to further the educational and social needs of the students and the community at large. It notifies the College Board and other authorities of administrative and other matters relating to the education and wellbeing of the college community. It raises funds by any appropriate practical means to effect its aims and initiates projects while cooperating with other organisations in projects involving Narrabundah College. It provides for community members to be elected to the Narrabundah College Board in accordance with the Act and Regulation. It provides a canteen in accordance with current guidelines and requirements. Membership is open to parents and/or guardians of a student enrolled at Narrabundah College or any other interested citizen, with no annual membership fee; the College Principal may be appointed as an Ex-Officio member.
Facilities

Facilities Overview
Brand-new Design, Arts, Technology and Science (DATS) building is under construction as part of the Narrabundah College modernisation. Works are underway on the DATS building and it is a $31.9 million investment toward modernisation. Learning areas will include Food Technology and Hospitality, 2D and 3D Art, Digital Media and Digital Technology, six Science Labs and Flexible General Learning Areas. The DATS building is expected to be completed in 2027. February 2026 update notes progress ahead of schedule and a 2027 move-in for students and staff. The learning spaces are designed to be inclusive and dynamic for all students.

Academic Facilities
Two chemistry labs, a biology lab, two dry labs, a physics lab, flexible spaces, Hospitality/Vocational Education Training and Food Technology, 2D and 3D art, Digital Media and Digital Technology.

Extra Curricular Facilities
Opportunities to develop into global citizens and to engage in leadership, health and well-being, volunteering and community connections.
Extra-Curricular Activities

Academic & Intellectual
Narrabundah College delivers a senior secondary curriculum for approximately 1000 year 11 and 12 students. The college offers the ACT Senior Secondary Certificate, the International Baccalaureate and the French Baccalaureat. Students choose from English, Mathematics, Science, Languages, History, Philosophy, Humanities, Social Sciences, Media, IT, Visual and Performing Arts, and seven languages are taught. The college challenges trends in STEM and Languages and supports students to excel academically while developing global citizenship.

Arts & Creative
Visual and Performing Arts are among the subjects offered. Media and IT are available to support creative expression. The college focuses on developing creativity and giving students opportunities to express themselves outside of academic classes and to engage in creative projects.

Cultural & Language
The college has an international atmosphere with students from over 60 countries. Seven languages are taught at the college, with high engagement in language study. International Private Students can do a full Year 11 and Year 12 program with bridging courses.

Social & Hobbies
The college values sporting and cultural endeavours. It encourages students to engage in creativity, leadership, volunteering and community connections beyond the classroom. Students are supported to thrive socially and emotionally.

Community & Service
Leadership, health & well-being, volunteering and community connections are part of the college journey. Students develop into caring global citizens. The college maintains strong partnerships with parents/carers and the broader community.

Leadership & Professional
Leadership opportunities are part of the college journey. Students embrace leadership experiences as they learn and contribute to their communities. The college supports development of skills and global citizenship.

Lifestyle & Wellbeing
Sporting endeavours are valued at Narrabundah College. Health and well-being are a focus of student development. The college provides strong student support to help students thrive socially and emotionally.
Languages

Language Provision
Nine languages are taught at all levels in the International Program. Native speakers can maintain their languages through the advanced language courses. The college also reports offering seven languages across the college overall.

Immersion Programs
French Baccalaureat is a pre-university diploma following the French Ministry of Education curriculum and is taught entirely in French. In Canberra, the Lycée Franco-Australien delivers the French curriculum from Kindergarten to Year 12, with students starting at Telopea Park School and finishing at Narrabundah College. This arrangement provides a French-language education pathway within Narrabundah College.
Admissions

Admissions
The school enrolls students living in its Priority Enrolment Area. The ACT Education Directorate provides online enrolment and key dates for applicants. For the IB Diploma Programme, enrolment must be lodged with the ACT Education Directorate (enrolling in an ACT School) and the IB Application Form must be completed and returned by the Directorate's due dates.

Scholarships
Music Scholarship through auditions in March each year.
School Events
The school has not added events
Compare Narrabundah College with
vs Telopea Park School - Lycee Franco-Australien de Canberra
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