St Mary's College
• Adelaide SA 5000, Australia
• Teaching and Lecturing
Closes
Located at 253 Franklin Street, Adelaide, SA, St Mary's College is a prestigious Catholic secondary school dedicated to providing a holistic education for young women. Established in 1869 by the Dominican Sisters, this institution has a long-standing history of fostering academic excellence, spiritual growth, and personal development within a supportive school community. As a leading independent girls' school in South Australia, St Mary's College caters to students from Years 5 to 12, offering a nurturing environment that empowers students to achieve their full potential.
The educational philosophy of St Mary's College is rooted in the Dominican tradition of 'Veritas' (Truth), emphasizing the pursuit of knowledge, critical thinking, and social justice. The school is committed to delivering a comprehensive curriculum that balances academic rigor with co-curricular opportunities, ensuring students develop as well-rounded individuals. Programs include a strong focus on STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics), humanities, arts, and sports, catering to diverse student interests and talents. The college also offers specialized pathways such as the International Baccalaureate (IB) Middle Years Programme, alongside the South Australian Certificate of Education (SACE), preparing students for tertiary education and beyond.
St Mary's College prides itself on its teaching excellence, with a dedicated team of approximately 80 staff members, including experienced educators and support personnel, who are committed to fostering a culture of learning and innovation. The school maintains small class sizes to ensure personalized attention, allowing teachers to tailor their approach to meet individual student needs. Professional development for staff is a priority, ensuring that teaching practices remain at the forefront of educational trends and methodologies.
The student body at St Mary's College reflects a rich student diversity, with enrolments of around 800 students from varied cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds. The college actively promotes inclusive practices, creating a welcoming environment where every student feels valued and supported. Pastoral care programs are integral to the school’s ethos, providing emotional and spiritual guidance to students throughout their educational journey.
The campus at Franklin Street boasts modern facilities designed to enhance learning and personal growth. These include state-of-the-art science laboratories, a performing arts center, a well-equipped library, and extensive sports facilities such as courts and ovals for netball, basketball, and other activities. The school also offers access to technology-rich learning spaces, ensuring students are prepared for a digital future. Recent upgrades to infrastructure reflect the college’s commitment to providing a contemporary and inspiring environment for education.
St Mary's College has earned numerous accolades for its commitment to excellence, including recognition for academic achievements and community engagement initiatives. The school consistently performs above state averages in NAPLAN and SACE results, with many graduates securing places in top universities across Australia and internationally. Additionally, the college is known for its vibrant co-curricular programs, with students excelling in music, drama, debating, and sports at regional and national levels. These achievements underscore the school’s reputation as a leader in girls’ education in South Australia.
The school community at St Mary's College is a tight-knit network of students, families, staff, and alumni who share a commitment to the values of faith, integrity, and service. Parents are encouraged to be active participants in their daughters’ education through various committees and events, fostering strong partnerships between home and school. The college also maintains a strong connection with its alumni, many of whom contribute to mentoring programs and school initiatives, further enriching the community spirit.
For educators and jobseekers, St Mary's College represents an opportunity to join a dynamic and forward-thinking institution that values professional growth and collaboration. The school seeks passionate individuals who align with its mission to inspire young women to make a positive impact on the world. Working at St Mary's College means being part of a supportive environment where innovation in teaching and learning is encouraged, and contributions to the broader school community are celebrated.
In summary, St Mary's College stands as a beacon of educational excellence in Adelaide, offering a transformative experience for students and staff alike. With its rich history, modern facilities, diverse programs, and unwavering commitment to fostering an inclusive and empowering environment, the college continues to shape the leaders of tomorrow. Whether you are an educator seeking a meaningful career or a family looking for a nurturing educational setting, St Mary's College embodies the values and vision of a truly exceptional Catholic school.