International Student Prospectus

INTERNATIONAL STUDENT PROSPECTUS

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF COUNTRY

Peace Lutheran College proudly acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the land.

We acknowledge the Djabugay, Yirrganydji people as the traditional custodians of the lands where Peace Lutheran College now stands – and recognise that these have always been places of teaching and learning. We pay respect to their Elders – past, present & emerging – and acknowledge the important role Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People continue to play within the Peace Lutheran Community.

FROM THE PRINCIPAL

I would like to extend a warm welcome to you and your family.

I trust that the information you discover by navigating our prospectus will provide you with an insight into our college and enable you to determine ways that we, as a learning-centred community can contribute to the educational, social, emotional, and developmental growth of your child.

At Peace Lutheran College, we believe every student is a special gift from God each with unique gifts, skills, and talents, which when nurtured enable them to become active citizens beyond our college. Every child is treated with care, dignity, and respect and encouraged to have control over their learning. Each is challenged to discover, develop and use their gifts and abilities for personal growth and service to others. We hope that the enriching and fulfilling opportunities experienced in our community stay with students for life.

Deciding about your child's educational future is one of the most important decisions parents need to make. You need to choose a school that works in partnership with your own personal beliefs and values in raising your child.

I firmly believe Peace Lutheran College is a school community where our children can grow and develop, knowing we are grounded in the Gospel of Jesus Christ and surrounded by His love.

I look forward to welcoming you to our school.

Mr Shane Jurecky

Principal – Peace Lutheran College

ABOUT PEACE LUTHERAN COLLEGE

Peace Lutheran College is a Kindergarten to Year 12 co-educational day and boarding school located in Cairns.

Peace Lutheran College is a place of Christian faith and excellence in learning where people are inspired, cared for, and equipped to be active contributors to society. We strive for every person to achieve their personal excellence every day – to be better today than they were yesterday, in all aspects of life.

WE DO THIS BY BEING:

• Learning-centred – focusing on the holistic needs of each student

• Spiritually sensitive – understanding that life has a spiritual dimension

• Environmentally aware – we are called to care for the world we live in WE DO THIS WITH:

• A conscience – striving for personal integrity in all circumstances

• A heart – focusing on our relationships with one another and caring for those in need

• A heritage – celebrating the diversity of our personal and national backgrounds. Peace Lutheran College is widely regarded as a caring school. We place a high priority on pastoral care. Our staff works hard at developing nurturing relationships with students because encouraging and affirming relationships lie at the heart of effective learning.

OUR MISSION

To develop resilient and compassionate young people who use God’s guidance to contribute positively to our community and the world.

It is through this mission we aim to offer a quality schooling experience where God’s love for every person is evident,and informs all that we do.

OUR VALUES

PEACE – We nurture grace and harmony EXCELLENCE – We encourage high aspirations RESPECT – We value all COMMUNITY – We build positive relationships

OUR VISION

To be at the forefront of effective and innovative education; empowering tomorrow’s citizens, today.

This is achieved through our education model, which is a progressive approach to learning; adopting modern-day education transformations that connect classroom learning to real life, better preparing students for their future after school.

THE PEACE LUTHERAN COLLEGE DIFFERENCE

It has been said that the pastoral care and support offered to our students is unmatched. We pride ourselves on the genuine care and nurture of every child in our care; we are concerned for each individual; providing a safe place for them to learn and grow.

Developing the whole person – academically, socially, emotionally and spiritually is at the heart of what we do. We foster a culture of excellence, encouraging everyone to strive to give their absolute best effort in everything they set out to do.

It is for this reason, students at Peace Lutheran College are confident learners and creative thinkers, equipped with the skills necessary for success both at school and beyond the classroom.

WE BELIEVE WHEN A CHILD IS SURROUNDED BY NURTURE, RESPECTED FOR WHO THEY ARE AND MADE TO FEEL IMPORTANT, KNOWN AND VALUED, THEY WILL HAVE SOLID FOUNDATIONS, GROUNDING THEM FOR FUTURE SUCCESS.

THE HISTORY OF PEACE LUTHERAN COLLEGE

Founded in 1994, Peace Lutheran College has been providing quality education, developing students academically, socially, physically, emotionally and spiritually for more than 25 years. We are now educating the children of some of our very first students.

We are also privileged to have some of our past students who are now employed as part of our teaching team, educating the next generation. This is a true testament to the strong sense of community at our school, where staff, students and their families are all a part of our College family.

Peace Lutheran College is part of the larger system of Lutheran schools in Queensland (Lutheran Education Queensland) and Australia (Lutheran Education Australia). Peace is a school which purposefully serves other Christian and non-Christian families in providing a quality Christian education for all.

Peace Lutheran College opened its doors on 1st February 1994 amid red mud and tropical rain, but with infectious enthusiasm and a clear sense of direction under the founding Principal, Michael Gladigau.

With approximately 250 people in attendance, the official opening ceremony occurred on Sunday, 12th June 1994, performed by Sir William Knox, Chairman of the Association of Independent Schools Queensland. Pastor John Vitale, President of the Lutheran Church of Australia Queensland District dedicated the school to the glory of God.

Today, the College is a testimony to a task that has had many hands to the wheel, developing every aspect of the school into its current niche in the Cairns Community.

The school provides the Cairns community with a further choice of quality education for children from the local area, as well as those who join us from within Australia and around the world.

ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE & ACHIEVEMENT

At Peace Lutheran College we value excellence and we encourage our students to have high aspirations for in all that they do. As a result, we are one of the top performing independent schools in our region.

Achievements

✔ 100% of our fulltime Year 12 students are consistently awarded a Queensland Certificate of Education (QCE)

✔ One of the highest performing ATAR schools in Cairns

✔ Counted among the top performing high schools for the National Assessment Program – Literacy and Numeracy (NAPLAN)

✔ Counted among the top performing primary schools for the National Assessment Program – Literacy and Numeracy (NAPLAN)

✔ Highly competitive and well-known for outstanding sportsmanship in Junior and Senior Inter-school sports competitions

✔ Reputation for representation in District, Regional, State and National level sport

Our graduating seniors also achieve outstanding university entrance scores, which has seen the school establish a fine record in Cairns for our students being accepted on their tertiary course of choice.

The College is extremely proud of its students’ achievements and successes in both the tertiary and vocational educational areas. We invite you to view our latest success stories via our website.

LIVING AND STUDYING IN CAIRNS, AUSTRALIA

The school grounds of Peace Lutheran College are representative of the natural beauty and relaxed coastal lifestyle of Cairns – gateway to Australia’s Great Barrier Reef and the perfect location for your international study.

Students who study in Cairns have the benefit of experiencing a quality education whilst enjoying the many natural wonders of the area including the reef and the rainforest, all located within close proximity to the school.

Studying in Cairns offers students an exceptional education and healthy lifestyle within a warm, tropical climate.

Location

Cairns is located on the east coast of Cape York Peninsula, a narrow coastal strip between the Coral Sea and the Great Dividing Range.

The city is the gateway to two of the world’s greatest natural attractions – the Great Barrier Reef and the Wet Tropics Rainforest.

Landscape

Cairns has a diverse tropical landscape, home to mountains, beaches, wetlands, lakes, mudflats, mangroves, rivers and estuaries, as well as Queensland’s highest mountain – Mount Bartle Frere (1,622 metres high); and home to the world’s longest lava tubes – Undara lava tubes (160 kilometres long and 20 metres wide).

Employment

Cairns is a regional hub for North Queensland, with tourism and hospitality being two of the main industries, along with retail, as well as agriculture and mining.

Cost of Living

In comparison to other states in Australia, Queensland has a relatively low cost of living. Australian Education International estimates that an international student living in Queensland will spend approximately $380 per week on items such as accommodation, food, clothing, entertainment, transport and communication.

Universities

Two world-class universities – Central Queensland University (CQU) and James Cook University (JCU), both of which offer practical education courses.

SCHOOL LOCATION AND TRANSPORTATION

Peace Lutheran College is nestled in the picturesque hills in the suburb of Kamerunga, only 14 kilometres from Cairns city, which is a 15-minute trip by car or bus.

The school has a safe and reliable transport system, owning a private fleet of buses and employing its own drivers. The buses are used to transport students, who are Boarders of the school, to activities, outings, sports training and events, etc. These buses are also used to transport all students to school activities and excursions.

Public bus transport is also available if required, with bus stops located directly opposite the school.

Cairns CBD

Peace Lutheran College

10.0 COLLEGE FACILITIES

Located at the foothills of World Heritage rainforest, our school is set on spacious grounds with beautiful gardens. Our facilities include:

✔ Airconditioned classrooms with interactive white boards and modern learning equipment

✔ Personal locker for every student

✔ School library

✔ Student Tuckshop fully catered for lunch breaks by our in-house Chef

✔ Peace Centre, hall with raised stage and seating for up to 500

✔ Multi-Purpose Centre including two undercover areas for basketball, netball and volleyball

✔ Spacious sports fields including two rectangular fields and one oval

✔ Primary School playgrounds

✔ Four boarding houses with the capacity to accommodate 86 people

✔ Boarder’s dining hall and recreation centre

✔ Health Centre operated by a registered nurse who attends to students who are unwell

✔ Privately owned and operated bus fleet whichtransfers students to-and-from school, to sporting fixtures and excursions and weekend activities for our Boarding students

Performing Arts Centre

This state-of-the-art, contemporary building facilitates music, drama and dance students with the latest equipment and performance space.

✔ Boutique theatre with stage and sound room

✔ The latest AV and lighting

✔ Fully equipped recording studio

✔ Two customised music teaching rooms

✔ Seven practice rooms for instrumental music tuition

Hospitality Centre

This leading-edge building consists of:

✔ A large, fully equipped commercial kitchen

✔ The latest equipment, appliances and utensils

✔ A well-appointed, modern café – Café Garna – serving barista coffee as well as an assortment of other beverages and baked goods

Industrial Technology & Design Centre

A modern, purpose-built facility which includes:

✔ A technology and design computer room

✔ Two spacious, well resourced woodwork workshops, including break-out rooms

✔ Large outdoor fabrication workshop

TEACHING AND LEARNING

At Peace Lutheran College we understand each child is different and they won't necessarily develop in the same way or at the same rate as another. It is for this reason we treat each child's progress as a unique journey, working with them every step of the way to reach their full potential.

Through collaborative learning groups and a focus on individual learning, we are able to ensure your child is receiving the attention that will see them grow and be successful learners.

Our dedicated teaching and pastoral care team will be on your child's learning journey with them, providing them with a complete education – academically, socially and spiritually – providing them with the skills they need to be successful in life. This is achieved by:

✔ Establishing solid foundations for future success through respecting individual learning, embracing and encouraging every child's unique skill set, developing the whole person.

✔ Fostering a culture of inclusiveness by embracing the diversity of our multicultural fabric, offering an environment where every student feels valued.

✔ Empowering tomorrow's citizens today through the introduction of dynamic learning environments, specifically designed to accommodate individual learning styles, integrate digital technologies, and promote collaborative learning, all of which ready our students for the world of tomorrow.

The curriculum

The curriculum aligns to the Australian Curriculum and the Queensland Curriculum and Assessment Authority (QCAA) documents. Being a Lutheran school, our students in Prep to Year 9 also engage in a Christian Studies program and students in Year 10, Year 11 and Year 12 participate in a Queensland Certificate in Education (QCE) credited Religion and Ethics course.

Method of study

All year levels are fulltime study with lessons delivered on-site at Peace Lutheran College. Some specialist lessons may be delivered via distance education or other means as required.

Duration of study

Two Semesters per year for each year level. Semesters are broken down into 9 and 10 week Terms, with two weeks holiday break in between each term and seven to eight weeks holiday break at the end of each year.

Outcomes

All students who successfully complete their Senior studies with Peace Lutheran College will achieve a Queensland Certificate of Education (QCE) upon graduation.

The QCE is Queensland’s senior secondary schooling qualification. It is internationally recognised and provides evidence of senior schooling achievements.

The QCE allows students to choose from a wide-range of learning options to suit their interests and career goals.

To receive a QCE students must achieve the set amount of learning, in the set standard, in a set pattern, while meeting literacy and numeracy requirements. (QCAA, 2020)

THE PRIMARY SCHOOL YEARS

Primary School – Prep to Year 6

The Primary School years pave the way to cultivate active and interested learners, establishing strong foundations which aim to equip every child for their learning journey.

Endorsing Lutheran Education Australia’s established Life-long Qualities for Learners, Peace Lutheran College students are encouraged to be:

✔ Self-directed, insightful investigators and learners

✔ Resourceful problem solvers and implementers

✔ Creative producers and contributors

✔ Open and responsive communicators and facilitators

✔ Resilient leaders and collaborators

✔ Caring and steadfast supporters and advocates

What is different about Primary School at PLC ?

✔ Classrooms are designed as flexible learning environments with open spaces allowing students to work in different areas

✔ Students can stand at tables, sit in booths or on the floor, or sit on wiggle stools or bean bags – whichever suits their learning style best

✔ Classrooms equipped with interactive whiteboards, iPads and laptops and whiteboard table tops

✔ Unique delivery where staff team-teach making for enjoyable and effective student learning

✔ Team-teaching allows teachers to target specific student needs, guiding them through directed learning

✔ Sporting, cultural and special interest activities

✔ Access to the school’s high school facilities – science laboratories, Hospitality Centre, Technology & Design Centre, Performing Arts Centre

✔ Refrigerators and lockers in every classroom

Social and emotional wellbeing

The social and emotional wellbeing of our Primary students is supported through “Program Achieve –You Can Do It”. This program teaches children the skills that contribute to their happiness through five foundational skills:

1. Confidence

2. Persistence

3. Organisation

4. Getting along

5. Emotional resilience

Curriculum

We focus on the core subjects of:

• English

• Mathematics

• Science

• Humanities

We offer specialist lessons in:

• Japanese

• The Arts – Music, Drama and Art

• STEM

• Health & Physical Education

JUNIOR SECONDARY STUDIES

Junior Secondary – Year 7 to Year 9

The important Junior Secondary years serve as a transition between childhood and young adulthood. We understand students in these year levels have needs distinct from other age groups and therefore pastoral care continues to be a vital part of our service to these students.

Due to rapid changes in brain development, how this age group learns and manages emotional, social and moral challenges is a key focus at Peace Lutheran College .

We have high expectations of our students’ attitude to their education; our approach fosters a willingness to learn and opportunities to succeed. This is achieved through:

✔ Building character, establishing trust and creating resilience

✔ Practicing mutual respect, acceptance of difference, consideration and forgiveness

✔ Encouraging students to dream big and take risks in their learning

✔ Supporting students through moral challenges and teaching them how to make responsible choices

✔ Fostering productive, respectful teacher-student relationships

What is different about Junior Secondary at PLC?

✔ Stimulating, practical academics program tailored to make learning experiences relevant, challenging and interesting

✔ Structure and boundaries for a safe environment

✔ Smaller learning communities for individual attention

✔ Connecting classroom learning to real life, better preparing students for their future

✔ Flexible, stimulating learning spaces

✔ Developing the skills necessary for success in their senior studies

Curriculum

Studies align with the Australian curriculum and Queensland Authority syllabus, with Peace Lutheran College curriculum following sound educational theory and practice and also evaluating and responding critically to current educational trends.

Core Subjects Specialist Subjects

All Year Levels (7-10) All Year Levels (Yr 7-10)

English

Mathematics

Science

Humanities

Industrial Technology & Design

Digital Technology

Food Technology

Drama

Languages –Choice of Japanese OR Spanish Music

Christian Studies

Health & Physical Education

Sport

Visual Art

Years 7 & 8 only

STEM

Textiles

Years 9 & 10 only

Languages – Choice of Japanese OR Spanish

Business Studies

SENIOR SECONDARY STUDIES

Senior School – Year 10 to Year 12

Peace Lutheran College has one of the finest records in Cairns for graduating seniors being accepted on their tertiary course of choice.

The College offers an outstanding program of academic, vocational, sporting, cultural and social experiences, in line with the most modern educational thinking of today.

Through careful monitoring of student progress and specialist teachers, we are able to give more time to the individual needs of our students. The school's professional, caring teachers offer advice and wellinformed direction to make sure every senior student graduates, having had the best support to embark on their adult lives and careers.

As a boarding school, our students have the opportunity to mix and forge friendships with people from a diverse range of backgrounds and cultures, making for a richer and more rewarding experience for students in their senior school years.

What is different about Senior School at PLC?

✔ An experienced and committed subject specialist team provide the highest level of instruction to ensure students are challenged and successful in their final years of study.

✔ A dedicated pastoral care team carefully monitors student progress and provides the guidance and support necessary for future success.

✔ Our programs maximise teaching time, track student performance and provide extensive opportunities for extended study and tutorials ensuring students are thoroughly prepared for summative assessment success.

✔ Our student welfare and careers team provide robust emotional support and advice for struggling students and families.

✔ Our careers team provides students with industry informed advice on careers and vocational education.

Curriculum

Senior subject choices continue to align with the Australian curriculum and Queensland Authority syllabus whilst ensuring our delivery is engaging and relevant, cultivating a desire for each child to work towards reaching their full potential.

Compulsory Subjects

(Students must choose one English and one Mathematics option)

General Subjects* Applied Subjects^

General English

Mathematical Methods

General Mathematics

Religion & Ethics

Essential English

Essential Maths

Sport

Year 11 and 12

Year 11 and 12 students are offered a broad choice of subjects. All senior students undertake Religion & Ethics and must select one English and one Mathematics subject, as well as three to four other subjects depending on their chosen academic pathway.

Students are assisted with their subject selections by our Careers Guidance Officer, and our Director of Secondary.

Elective Subjects

General Subjects* Applied Subjects^

Biology

Visual Arts in Practice

Physics Sport & Recreation

Chemistry

Legal Studies

Business

Modern History

Drama in Practice

Furnishing Skills

Music in Practice

Aquatic Practices

Geography Hospitality Practices

Visual Art

Physical Education

Drama

Music

TAFE / Vocational Studies / Distance

General* subjects are suited to students who are interested in pathways beyond senior secondary schooling that lead primarily to tertiary studies and to pathways for vocational education and training and work. General subjects include Extension subjects.

Applied^ subjects are suited to students who are primarily interested in pathways beyond senior secondary schooling that lead to vocational education and training or work.

Results in General and Applied subjects contribute to the awarding of a QCE and may contribute to an Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR) calculation, although no more than one result in an Applied subject can be used in the calculation of a student's ATAR.

Extra-curricular

The College offers a variety of extra-curricular activities and all students are encouraged to be involved in an activity that best suits their individual interests.

Camps & Excursions

Class camps help build positive relationships between teachers and students and create a spirit of togetherness. There is no additional cost to attend these camps:

✔ Year 6 Leadership Camp

✔ Year 7 Orientation Camp

✔ Year 8 Outdoor Education Camp

✔ Year 9 Aquatic Camp

✔ Year 10 Work Experience

✔ Year 11 Leadership Camp

✔ Year 12 Leadership Retreat

Voluntary Excursions allow students the opportunity to be involved in cultural experiences and adventure programs:

✔ Adventure Under Sail – sailing adventure available for Year 10 and 11 students

✔ Borneo Service Trip – outreach opportunity for Year 9 and 10 students

✔ Spanish Cultural Trip – cultural experience for Secondary students

✔ Japanese Cultural Trip – cultural experience for Secondary students

✔ New Zealand Ski Trip – adventurous experience for Year 11 and 12 students

Clubs

Our students are offered a wide range of extra and co-curricular activities outside of the classroom. Some areas of opportunity include drama, music and visual art, through to experiences that challenge their STEM, engineering and creative skills.

Recess Activities

In response to the school’s policy of ‘no mobile phones during school hours’, the student leadership run a weekly calendar of activities during second lunch break. Regular weekly activities include:

✔ Chess

✔ Table Tennis

✔ Boardgames

Community Groups

Environment Group – This is a motivated, energetic group of students who plan and coordinate the school's initiatives to reduce our carbon footprint. From managing the school's recycling program, to establishing butterfly gardens and planting trees, this group of students is always excitedly planning for improvement.

Rosies – Friends on the Street – This is a not-for-profit organisation that provides acceptance and friendship to people who are homeless or at risk of homelessness. Our Senior students help out regularly by providing ongoing support to the project and going out with the van to serve meals for the homeless. This dedicated group of students work to make a difference in the lives of others through generously giving their time to serve.

Service Group – Secondary students are invited to participate in a variety of service activities in response to needs within the school and wider community.

Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme

This structured youth development program offers students the opportunity to demonstrate initiative, organisation and leadership skills by participating in challenging outdoor activities and community service initiatives.

Leadership

Student Representative Council (SRC) - The SRC consists of the College Captains, Vice Captains and Year Level Representatives who serve the school community by representing student interests and providing a forum for student opinions and ideas. They also represent the school and student body at school and community events.

Music

Private music tuition is offered in piano, drums, percussion, vocals, guitar, bass guitar, string, woodwind and brass instruments.

The Junior Choir (Primary School) offers students the opportunity to sing and perform at school functions as well as enter local Eisteddfod competitions.

The Concert and Jazz bands comprise our Instrumental Music students and offers students the opportunity to perform at school functions and for local community organisations.

Performing Arts

The College engages in school and public performances. Students may audition for the annual school production and engage in Drama performances for school and public appearances.

Public Speaking

The College offers debating and public speaking opportunities and enters literary competitions. Students work with their English teachers out of school time to prepare for these events.

PLANNING FOR LIFE AFTER SCHOOL

Careers Guidance

Through career information and counselling, we prepare students for life beyond the classroom. We employ an experienced Careers Guidance Officer who can support students and their parents, assisting with:

✔ Individualised careers counselling

✔ Vocational Education & Tertiary (VET) pathways

✔ School-based apprenticeships and traineeships

✔ The job search process, including resume preparation, job seeking and interview tips

✔ Sourcing and advice relating to work experience

✔ Insight into workplace expectations and etiquette

All senior students attend the annual Careers and Employment Expo, which brings together a vast array of education and career providers to inspire students and help them with their decision making.

From Year 10, students start their Senior Education and Training (SET) plan, which is used as a guide to inform subject selection and identify vocational pathways.

Work Experience

All Year 10 students participate in a structured work experience program enabling them to sample real work in an industry of their choice. In years 11 and 12 students are encouraged to source work experience during their school holidays if they have a particular career interest.

To broaden their knowledge of careers, the school invites a range of guests to talk to our students about their career pathway. These engaging sessions allow students to interact with industry experts from our region.

University Pathways

Peace Lutheran College has an exceptional record of producing academically talented students in readiness for entry to university.

Our students have access to experienced staff who can support and guide them towards achieving the necessary requirements for entry into their chosen university course.

During Year 12, students attend university experience days to gain greater insight and understanding about university life and expectations. University representatives also visit our students to offer first-hand advice and knowledge about specific courses and entry requirements.

SPORT AT PEACE LUTHERAN COLLEGE

Peace Lutheran College is well-known for its sporting achievements with our students having competed at State and National levels.

A wide range of opportunities are available including carnivals, district and regional sport, inter-school sport and College teams. Our core sports program introduces students to various activities and provides the skills for them to then participate in various games and team sports.

School Carnivals

✔ Cross Country – Primary and Secondary students

✔ Swimming – Secondary students

✔ Athletics – Primary and Secondary students

Inter-school Sport

Two competitions are played throughout the year:

✔ Cairns Inter-school Secondary Sporting Activities (CISSA) – for students in Years 10, 11 and 12, played in Terms 1 and 2.

✔ Junior Secondary Sport (JSS) – for students in Years 7, 8 and 9, played’ in Terms 3 and 4.

Team training takes place each week. Students travel off campus, during school time, to compete against other schools in the Cairns region. The different sports include:

✔ AFL (boys)

✔ Basketball (boys and girls)

✔ Football - Soccer (boys and girls)

✔ Netball (girls)

✔ Touch Football (boys and girls)

✔ Volleyball (boys and girls)

District & Regional Sport

Students can nominate for District trials which are held throughout the year. Students who attend District trials may be selected in a Regional team. The College has had a consistent record of award recipients at District level and has had several students progress through the Queensland Schools State Team which is the highest possible achievement in Australian School Sport.

Sports include:

✔ AFL

✔ Basketball

✔ Cricket

✔ Football (Soccer)

✔ Netball

✔ Rugby League

✔ Touch Football

✔ Volleyball

INTERNATIONAL STUDENT ACCOMMODATION

Our school offers co-educational boarding facilities for domestic and international students across four smaller-sized boarding houses – two boy’s house and two girl’s houses that can accommodate 86 students in total

Boarding Houses

The boarding houses are located on our school grounds and each house has its own House Parent who aims to make the house a home-away-from home for the students.

Each house features:

✔ A common lounge and dining area

✔ Kitchenette

✔ Laundry

✔ Shared, cubicle-style bedrooms

✔ Cubicle-style bathrooms

The setup of the houses provides students with their own private, individual space. Younger students are accommodated together, allowing for connections to be made. Senior students’ accommodation is individual cubicle-style bedrooms allowing for more privacy and independence.

Boarding Facilities

✔ Dining room where students come together for meals. The boarder’s dining menu is managed by our own qualified chef.

✔ Recreational swimming pool

✔ Volleyball, basketball and netball courts

✔ Sports fields

✔ Recreation Centre, including games room and media room

Boarding Staff

Our boarding staff are dedicated individuals who bring a strong commitment to their boarding houses. Our staff consist of:

✔ Heads of Boarding – Girls & Boys

✔ House Parent for each house

✔ Boarding Supervisors

✔ School Nurse (Registered Nurse)

✔ Student Welfare Officer on campus

Routines

Boarding students have a set routine to help them get the most from their academic studies.

✔ A certain amount of study must be undertaken each week

✔ Dedicated study is supervised in classrooms and boarding House Parents liaise with teaching staff to ensure students are working to achieve their best.

✔ Set meal times

Further information on Boarding at Peace can be found in our Boarders Information Handbook located on our website.

STUDENT HEALTH & WELLBEING

Our dedicated teaching and pastoral care team will be on your child’s learning journey with them, providing them with a complete education.

Our Christian ethos informs relationships between staff and students and shapes the whole school environment, providing a safe and secure atmosphere in which students can learn effectively.

The school’s pastoral care program looks to build life skills and equip students for challenges they may encounter. Focus areas include:

✔ Having high expectations of self and others

✔ Respectful relationships with caring adults

✔ Moral values that enable young people to discern right from wrong

✔ Social boundaries and opportunities for social service

These traits build resilience when these young people face life's challenges.

Our pastoral care staff and teaching team work closely together to ensure our students are settled, feel safe and can concentrate on their studies.

Pastoral Care Team College Pastor

Our College Pastor is actively involved in the school’s pastoral care programs and student welfare services. Students regularly attend chapel which is led by the Pastor and students are also encouraged to be involved. The College Pastor also serves the College’s boarding community through church services, bible studies and devotions.

Director of Culture

Our Director of Culture is actively involved in the connection between wellbeing and academics to support our holistic approach to the education we provide to our students.

Year Level Focus

Strong relationships are developed with year level groups helping to establish a sense of identify and belonging as students journey through their time at Peace Lutheran College.

Vertical House Focus

Our House System see students from Years 7 – 12 coming together, in their individual Houses, for their morning Home Group, two to three times per week. This system helps to develop a sense of community and fosters a ‘whole school’ culture.

Student Welfare Officer

Our Student Welfare Officer provides support, assessment and advice to all students from Prep through to Year 12 in relation to student wellbeing. They work alongside other support staff to provide pastoral care and support for staff and parents of the College Community. When necessary, upon ascertaining the level of support required for a student, they will connect students and parents to external agencies and providers who can offer expert advice to assist students as they overcome emotional and personal struggles.

School Nurse

We have a Health Centre located on campus which is operated by a registered nurse to care for our students in times of illness or accident. The nurse is also responsible for storing and administering prescription medication required by students.

Leadership & Teaching Team

Our leadership and teaching team carefully monitor each student’s progress, addressing individual needs. Our teachers are caring and are dedicated to our students, providing them with the advice, direction and support they need along their learning journey.

Supporting our teachers in the pastoral care of our students are our Home Group Teachers, Heads of House and Boarding House Parents.

Staying Connected

The College has a strong sense of community and we strongly encourage families of international students to become involved with our college community.

The school has several platforms that keep families informed and engaged with the activities and happenings at the school:

✔ Peace Lutheran College Instagram

✔ Peace Lutheran College Facebook

✔ Peace Lutheran College Boarding Facebook

✔ College Newsletter

✔ Peace Lutheran College School App

Direct communication between the school and home is considered vital as we value your ongoing involvement with your child’s educational development. This communication is either by email or phone.

You can also have access to your child’s student information such as academic reports, school calendar, event and excursion information and permissions and parent/teacher interviews through the school’s Peace Parent Portal. You will be provided access to this program once your child’s enrolment has been accepted and confirmed with the school.

INTERNATIONAL STUDENT ENROLMENT

The school offers the following CRICOS approved courses:

Course Code Course Name

086286C Junior School Studies Prep to Year 6

086287B Junior Secondary Studies Year 7 to Year 10

018202J Senior Secondary Studies Year 11 and Year 12

We will consider enrolment applications from students wishing to apply for a Student Visa 500, subject to compliance with conditions set by Peace Lutheran College, and with legislative requirements of the State of Queensland and the Commonwealth of Australia

Application Process

Step 1: Application

Complete and submit the Peace Lutheran College Online International Student Application form and make payment of the $300 application fee. This processing fee is non-refundable. Your application cannot be processed until the application fee has been paid.

Please note: The following documents will need to be uploaded to your Online International Student Application form before it can be submitted:

✔ Birth Certificate - certified copy

✔ Current Passport - copy of passport page with name, photo identification, passport number and expiry date

✔ Visa/s - previous visas held for study in Australia

✔ Character reference (required for children enrolling into Years 7 - 12 and Boarding)

✔ Letter of Release (if applicant is already currently studying in Australia)

✔ School/academic reports (translated in English) - latest certified copies

✔ Photograph of student (NOT the Passport photograph)

Once the application and documents have been received, our Enrolments team will acknowledge receipt of your application via email and will contact you should any additional information be required.

Step 2: Interview

An interview and/or assessment with either the Principal, or appropriate Director of School, will be arranged with you and your child. This can be arranged via Zoom where necessary.

Step 3: Letter of Offer

A Letter of Offer from the school will be sent to you should your application be successful. You will be required to sign and return your acceptance of this Offer and make payment of the $400 enrolment deposit.

Step 4: Confirmation of Enrolment

You will receive an invoice from the school requesting payment of one Semester’s tuition fees in advance. Once this payment is received, a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) will be issued. You will require a CoE before you are able to apply for a student visa.

Step 5: Receipt of Visa Application

Once you have received and viewed your child’s visa application, you must notify the school that it has been received.

Step 6: Overseas Health Cover

Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) is an Australian Government requirement for all students studying on a student visa. Day students are required to organise their own OSHC. Boarding students can arrange their own OSHC, or the school can do this on their behalf through BUPA Overseas Student Health Cover - this is the school's preferred overseas health provider.

Step 7: Before You Arrive

Our Enrolments team will contact you about arrangements for your child’s arrival and commencement.

Step 8: Welcome to Peace

Your child commences their studies at Peace Lutheran College with an orientation of the campus and introduction to their teacher and student buddy.

English Language Entry Requirements

Prep to Year 6

International students applying for entry to the Primary School will require a personal interview with the Principal or Director/s of Primary. An English language proficiency assessment and academic ability assessment is also required and this will be conducted by approved teachers at the College. This assessment assists in determining whether students have age-appropriate achievement in literacy/numeracy areas of our curriculum, and to determine their level of English.

Year 7 – 12

International students applying for Junior Secondary or Senior Secondary studies will need to provide academic reports (translated in English) from their most recent school/s for the previous two years, including an explanation of the reporting procedures applied.

International students must also meet the minimum Bandscale appropriate to their entry year level as outlined below:

FEES

Our international tuition and non-tuition fees are an all-inclusive fee. We feel it is important you know that at Peace Lutheran College you will not be billed for extra levies, school excursions or school delivered extra-curricular costs throughout the year.

We invite you to view the College’s comprehensive list of International Tuition & Nontuition School Fees and Boarding Fees. Information on Additional Fees relating to uniforms, stationery, etc. can be viewed under the Fee Schedule page of the Peace Lutheran College website.

Boarding Fees (per student)

Behaviour Management Policy

Complaints and Appeals Policy

Critical Incident Policy

Deferment, Suspension & Cancelation of Enrolment Policy

Entry Requirements Policy

International Student Refund Policy

International Student Transfer Policy

Student Progress, Attendance & Course Duration Policy

Student Welfare & Accommodation Policy

Boarding Fees (per student)

Boarding fee includes:

Accommodation | All Meals | School & Sport Transport | Weekend Activities & Transport

Some Recreational Activities | Laundry Service (for school uniforms only)

School Fee Credit Policy

• Failure to pay fees by the due dates, or not honouring your payment arrangement will result in cancellation of enrolment.

• Withdrawal of a student from Peace Lutheran College requires ten (10) school weeks’ notice in writing to be provided to the Principal. If insufficient notice is provided, payment of ten weeks school fees (and boarding fees in lieu of notice if applicable) is payable.

For further details please see our School Fees Credit Policy.

• All fees are reviewed annually and may be subject to change.

• All fees are quoted in Australian dollars (AUD).

Additional Fees – Day and Boarding Students (per student)

The following additional fees are not covered in the tuition fees and are the responsibility of the parent and/or carer. The majority of these additional non-tuition fees are compulsory requirements. Please note: The costs noted below are approximate costs only, provided as a guide. We recommend you check with the supplier for more accurate cost information.

Item

School uniforms

Book and stationery pack

Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) Program

Student Overseas Health Cover (OSHC)

Additional Information

Uniform requirements can be viewed on our website. Approximate cost is AUD $500 - $700. See the supplier’s website for more information.

Lists can be viewed on our website. Approximate cost is AUD $200+ per year. The cost varies according to year level and subjects taken. Payment is made directly to the stationery supplier.

Students in Years 7 – Year 12 are required to bring their own device to school. Information will be provided upon enrolment.

It is an Australian Government requirement that all students studying on a student visa are covered by OSHC. Day students are required to organise their own OSHC. Boarding students may organise their own OSHC and provide details to us of their own private health cover, OR we can organise OSHC on your behalf through Bupa. Approximate cost is AUD $600 - $800 per year.

QCAA fees (Year 11 & 12 students only)

Special activities, courses and excursions

Bus transport to and from school (Day Students only)

Additional Fees

This is a mandatory government fee for the Senior External Examination which may contribute to the awarding of a Queensland Certificate of Education (QCE) and contribute to ATAR calculations. Approximate cost is AUD $800.

Other charges may apply throughout the year for these items, although the school endeavours to keep these charges to a minimum.

Transport fees for day students who elect to use the school’s bus service for transport to and from school can be found on the School Bus page of the College’s website.

– Boarding Students Only (per student)

The following additional fees are not covered in the tuition fees and are the responsibility of the parent and/or carer.

Item Additional Information

Medical expenses

Your OSHC may not cover the full cost of doctor or specialist visits and does not cover medications or pharmaceutical costs. Minor medication expenses will be added to your school account as required. However, you must pay major medical expenses directly to the health provider.

Personal belongings

Vacation transportation

Pocket money AUD $30 per week is recommended

You are requested to purchase all the personal belongings required for boarding, as outlined in the Boarding Information Handbook.

The school has a designated drop-off time to the International Airport at the end of each term. Outside of this, you are responsible for your child’s transportation at the beginning and end of each term (including transportation to and from the school).

You are responsible for ensuring your child has enough pocket money for the term. We recommend opening an Australian bank account and providing your child with a debit card to cover extra expenses for personal items and activities.

PEACE • EXCELLENCE • RESPECT • COMMUNITY

50-60 Cowley Street, Kamerunga PO Box 72F, Freshwater QLD 4870

P: 4039 9000, F: 4039 1623, E: enrolments@plc.qld.edu.au

W: www.plc.qld.edu.au