By Carole Levy
With a community of 1500 students representing more than 62 nations, and 180 teachers and support staff, Caroline Chisholm Catholic College is considered one of the best in the west, according to principal Marco DiCesare.
He says as part of achieving learning excellence, the college has world-class facilities.
“These include an indoor swimming pool, an 800-seat auditorium, and a trade training centre [with 3D printing facilities], cutting-edge science labs, two cafeterias, as well as two libraries and a college-owned outdoor education campus,” Mr DiCesare says.
All students are given laptops and IT infrastructure is leading among schools in the area.
“Our digital technology studies offer students the chance to learn coding and programming – and, if interested, they can participate in the VEX Robotics Challenge and demonstrate their robotics skills.”
Students have access to online platforms that enhance learning and, through the college’s networks that include University of Melbourne and Victoria University, students can gain insights into study and work opportunities.
“Our reading program, developed in association with the University of Melbourne, challenges each student to set individual goals and monitor their reading progress,” Mr DiCesare says. “This builds upon literary skills gained in primary school and enhances skills required for success in the senior pathways.”
Although students achieve excellent academic results, the college team believes education is more than just a score.
“Driven by a personalised learning philosophy, the classroom is differentiated, learning intentions are explicit, and teaching is scaffolded to allow students to build skills and knowledge,” Mr DiCesare says.
“Educating for the future starts with putting the needs of our students front and centre, accompanied by our values of faith, acceptance, compassion and excellence.”
Extension programs include:
• International exchanges with schools in Japan and Italy
• Aspire, an accelerated education and enrichment program
• Encore Music for students in years 7-9
• Partnership with Australian Catholic University, enabling year 12 students to study tertiary subjects
Enrolments for year 7 in 2021 are open, and tours of the three campuses easily arranged.
An Open Day, 11am-2pm on Sunday, May 19, will allow parents and students to see first-hand why the college is considered one of the best.
Caroline Chisholm Catholic College, 65 and 204 Churchill Avenue, Braybrook. Inquiries: 9296 5311 or cccc.vic.edu.au
