Simonds Catholic College

Situated across two campuses in the heart of the City of Melbourne, Simonds Catholic College is in a unique position of being the only Catholic school for boys on the doorstep of the CBD. 

Our Year 7-9 students start at the St Mary’s Campus, West Melbourne which is just two blocks away from the Queen Victoria Market. Students move to our Year 10-12 Campus in Fitzroy North for their senior studies. 

The College commenced in 1996 following the amalgamation of St Mary’s Boys’ Regional School, West Melbourne, and Cathedral College, East Melbourne both of which were Year 7-10 schools. The West Melbourne location was chosen for the school because of its accessibility by public transport. Our students come from all areas of Melbourne. We have expanded to become a Year 7-12 school, offering a broad range of VCE subjects and now occupy classrooms in what was St Mary’s Primary School (closed in 1996) and St Brigid’s Primary School (closed in 2009), on the grounds of the two landmark churches after which the campuses are named. 

In 2020 we celebrate our 25 year anniversary. 

Transition to secondary school 

Moving from primary to secondary school is a big change, that whilst exciting, can also be challenging or worrying for many students. Year 7 is the first time where students are experiencing individual subjects, taught by specialist teachers, as the norm. Students are eased into this transition from primary school to this next level of learning. Most subjects are taught in the familiar environment of students' Homeroom with their Homeroom Teacher taking them for more than one subject. Your son will be supported to build organisational and study skills, develop strong peer relationships and to build a connection to the school community. 

The Power of Reading 

We are very proud of our reading program (REP) which is now two years old. It has already dramatically changed the reading habits of our students.  REP stands for Reading Equals Power. It’s an appropriate title given the link between wider reading and educational outcomes. Research on the importance of wider reading is very clear – reading develops crucial cognitive skills, expands vocabulary and develops general knowledge. Reading really does give students power in the classroom and power in life. 

During four 30-minute sessions per week, straight after recess, Year 7-9 students silently read a novel they have chosen from those available in their reading range. To ensure the novels chosen are not too hard and not too easy, students read books derived from their reading comprehension results. When students finish a novel, they complete an online comprehension quiz. The results of completed quizzes are fed back to teachers, parents and the student. This system allows students to read appropriately levelled material of their choice, whilst allowing teachers to track their students’ progress and provide extra support where necessary. At the end of each semester, our students’ achievements in REP are celebrated through the presentation of awards for “most improved”, “most books read” and “most quiz points scored”. There is also healthy competition between Homerooms to see who can score the most points. 

We believe that its regularity, student choice in books they read, as well as the competitive aspect are important features that make it work for our boys. When our Year 7 students were asked what was best about REP, their answers were simple but profound. 

“It’s the perfect way to settle down after recess snacks” 

“It’s the chance to be in your own world for a bit. I love it!” 

Known, Supported, Inspired 

The College motto, ‘Known, Supported, Inspired’ conveys the essence of our mission. Our school is a learning community that promotes student wellbeing, safety and positive relationships so that students can achieve success and reach their full potential. 

“Dear Young People ... Do not be afraid to dream of big things” -- Pope Francis 

We are a small school by design and have outstanding teachers. Our point of difference is that we deliberately limit the size of classes and this translates to increased learning opportunities for our students and big opportunities for your son.  Simonds’ close proximity to the inner city means we are able to take advantage of the many excellent cultural and sporting facilities to support and enhance our students' learning. We are fortunate that many activities are only minutes away.  

Join us for a Talk and Tour and discover the Simonds difference for yourself.