Robert Brennan, principal of Caroline Chisholm Catholic College, says the pros and cons of single-sex and mixed education are constantly being debated but his college offers a practical solution.
“We focus,” he says, “on a concentrated single-sex education from years 7-9 for our young girls and boys at separate campuses, and a co-educational experience from years 10-12.
“This allows students to experience and take advantage of the best of both settings.”
The college is seeing a rise in the number of girls taking physics, chemistry, and specialist mathematics and maths methods in their senior years, as well as design and technologies and performing and visual arts subjects.
Mr Brennan says the preparatory years for girls are fundamental in setting study habits and academic skills.
“The single-sex setting encourages girls to challenge a national trend indicating they are less likely to take Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths (STEM) and Vocational Education Training (VET) subjects at an early age.
“Our female students are encouraged to develop strong skills in theory and practical subjects throughout their early years of secondary education.
“The all-girls Christ the King Campus offers girls a safe space that prepares them for the co-educational setting in year 10 and beyond.Starting off at an all-girls campus creates a focused environment for girls to learn, but never feeling alienated from the college’s junior boys who learn on a separate all-boys campus.
“The college promotes student voice and agency, where students stand up for themselves; and a sisterhood that unites all the girls around important movements such as actions against bullying and International Women’s Day.
“We also promote strong females without labels. Christ the King is a unique community built around educational choices, empowerment and identity.”
Mr Brennan also notes that the college collaborates with students to deliver a pastoral program that addresses the issues immediately at hand.
“The aim is to empower young women with the skills and attitudes needed to be their best, to overcome the obstacles and challenges society places before them, and to embrace their inner power. In addition to our programs, our all-girls campus has undergone a major refurbishment, with a new Arts Centre and Science Wing, as well an updated Design Lab.”
Caroline Chisholm Catholic College’s inner-west location is ideal for families wanting the best of both worlds. All campuses are close to public transport and the college runs a dedicated bus from Derrimut every morning.
“I believe the college provides an environment which allows all students to develop a sense of belonging, to flourish and become successful life-long learners, ready to meet the challenges of the 21st century.”
Call the College to organise a personalised tour or email admissions@cccc.vic.edu.au. Caroline Chisholm Catholic College, 65 and 204 Churchill Avenue, Braybrook. Enquiries: 9296 5311 or visit
