| Principal | Mrs Michelle Carroll |
|---|---|
| Year levels | P to 12 |
| Enrolment numbers | 641 |
| Boarding or day | both |
| Website | http://www.stcatherines.net.au |
| Phone | (03) 9822 1285 |
| Fax | (03) 9822 7595 |
| Postal address | 17 Heyington Place, Toorak |
St Catherine’s School, Toorak has as its motto, ‘Nil Magnum Nisi Bonum’ – Nothing is great unless it is good. Established in 1896, the School combines a proud history with contemporary thinking. It seeks to provide a culture in which girls are educated intellectually, spiritually, emotionally and physically to the highest personal and collective level possible. St Catherine’s girls are always encouraged to achieve their personal best. A non-denominational Christian school, St Catherine’s is coeducational at ELC and girls from Prep to Year 12. Our core philosophy is to nurture independent and thoughtful young women with strong values, women who are confident in their ability to lead and make a difference. The School Values are: Curiosity, Perseverance, Integrity and Empathy. St Catherine’s is renowned for its extensive programs: over 55 VCE studies, together with a range of co-curricular programs, including, Sports (GSV), Gymnastics, Snowsports, Rowing, Music, Drama, Outdoor Education, Debating and Public Speaking. Our girls may choose to participate in a range of exchanges, cultural trips and programs which enhance learning and development. They are also encouraged to engage in community service and most complete a Leadership Diploma in Years 9 and 10. Leadership at St Catherine’s School encompasses formal positions held by senior students in both the Junior and Senior Schools, but also encourages a culture of civic responsibility for all. St Catherine’s parents are widely involved through the Parents’ and Friends’ Association and a range of auxiliaries, in support of the School’s programs through fundraising and activities in sports, music, drama and the arts. In 2011, our Sports and Aquatic Centre, including an all-weather sports field and a 25 metre indoor swimming pool, opened, and the ‘St Catherine’s Centre for Ethics and Enterprise’ commenced with its focus on the fascinating world of commerce. Through a genuine understanding of each girls’ educational and personal needs, and flexible individualised programs, we have the capacity to respond to the specific learning needs of our students. Innovation is exemplified in our extensive pastoral, leadership, community service and differentiated curriculum programs, including the distinctive Independent Learning Classes, along with extensive academic enhancement. A dedicated student support program at all levels provides testing, and additional literacy and numeracy support as required. Our students excel academically. In 2011, 4% of our VCE students achieved a score of 99 or higher (in the top 1%); 43% attained scores of 90 and above, (top 10%); whilst approximately 70% were ranked in the top 20% of the state. Students have the option of completing VET subjects and traineeships, and our success is measured by student pathways from school to diverse tertiary courses and programs. St Catherine’s is a proudly inclusive and dynamic community with a strong understanding of the individual.