2026 International Student Handbook

International Student Handbook

PERTH COLLEGE | INTERNATIONAL STUDENT HANDBOOK

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Contents OUR STORY

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VISION 4 EMPOWERING YOUR DAUGHTER TO THRIVE

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ENGLISH LANGUAGE PROFICIENCY REQUIREMENTS 5 LEVEL OF ENTRY AND COURSE REQUIREMENTS 7 ARRANGING VISAS

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ACCOMMODATION 9 NOMINATION OF GUARDIAN BASED IN PERTH

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HOW TO APPLY

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ORIENTATION 12 UNIFORM GUIDELINES

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COMMUNICATION AND CONTACT

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POLICIES 15

Acknowledgement of Country Perth College is honoured to be situated on the ancestral Lands of the Whadjuk Noongar people. We acknowledge the First Australians as the Traditional Custodians of the Lands we stand on and pay respect to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Elders past, present and future for they hold the memories, the traditions, the culture and hopes of Australia’s First Peoples.

PERTH COLLEGE | INTERNATIONAL STUDENT HANDBOOK

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Our Story Perth College is one of the oldest independent girls’ schools in Western Australia. It was founded in 1902 by the Community of the Sisters of the Church. The Community of the Sisters of the Church is an Anglican religious order established in 1870 in England by Emily Ayckbowm, whose vision was to develop women’s freedom through ‘higher education.’

Sister Emily’s vision of a ‘higher education’ led us to the development of our InsideOut program that nurtures whole person and where personal success is not just defined by academic achievement. A Perth College education is underpinned by our values: being capable, courageous, and caring. Our girls pursue learning and excellence whilst striving to fulfil their potential with confidence and resourcefulness.

When Sisters Vera, Rosalie and Susannah founded Perth College in 1902, they turned Emily’s vision of great futures of young women into reality. In 1916, their prospectus stated the aim for their pupils was that they ‘may not merely gain distinction in examination lists, but also be fitted to gain distinction in the greater business of life.’

The knowledge and opportunities imparted to each Perth College girls cultivates a sense of faith, connection belonging, and of capability. They depart our gates at the end of their time at Perth College, ‘fit to gain distinction in the greater business of life,’ and with the courage and self-confidence to shape their own future.

With 122 years of experience and knowledge, Perth College continues to chart the founding Sisters’ course.

We are a proud Anglican school that is committed to educational excellence and fostering academic strength and empowerment. Our community is grounded in faith and celebrates our rich history while balancing an approach to education that fosters collaboration, creativity and innovation.

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Vision Perth College Girls: Remarkable Women Perth College women shape heir own futures and positively influence society.

PURPOSE Weactivelypursueandembracenewapproachesandwordclass education excellence within an inclusive and vibrant community.

VALUES OurvaluesaretheessenceofaPerthCollegeeducationand defining character traits of each student.

A PERTH COLLEGE GIRL IS: • Capable:pursuinglearningandexcellencewhilststriving tofulfilourpotentialwithconfidenceandresourcefulness.

• Courageous: embracing and navigating challenges with strength, purpose and resilience.

• Caring: living generously, valuing relationships, and contributingtoourcommunitywithintegrity,respectand compassion.

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Empowering your daughter to thrive Perth College is proud to welcome international students from all parts of the world to our School, helping us to create a thriving multicultural community with a focus on inclusivity, respect, and positive education.

Perth College is registered with the Commonwealth Government, CRICOS listing 00445D, and offers the following courses: • 0215 0 9 G P R I M A R Y E D U C A TIO N Year 1 to Year 6 (girls only, accompanied by parents) • 0101 2 9 7 J UNI OR S E C O N D A R Y E D U C A TIO N Years 7 to 10 (girls only, including boarders) • 0101 2 9 8 SEN I O R S E C O N D A R Y E D U C A TIO N Years 11 to 12 (girls only, including boarders) As a provider of education and training services to overseas students, the school is required to comply with the National Code of Practice for Providers of Education and Training to Overseas Students 2018 and Education Services for Overseas Students Act 2000 (ESOS Act).

English Language Proficiency Requirements ENGLISH AS AN ADDITIONAL LANGUAGE/DIALECT (EAL/D) At Perth College, we are committed to supporting the wellbeing and academic success of all students, including those for whom English is an Additional Language or Dialect (EAL/D). To achieve this, we require international students to demonstrate a satisfactory level of English language proficiency prior to enrolment.

PERTH COLLEGE | INTERNATIONAL STUDENT HANDBOOK

INSTRUCTION AND CURRICULUM All teaching at Perth College is delivered in English.

Therefore, English language competency is essential for students to effectively engage in classroom learning, meet the curriculum standards, and fulfil academic requirements. Furthermore, minimum literacy and numeracy standards are mandated by the Western Australian education authority to meet graduation expectations.

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ENGLISH ASSESSMENT – AEAS OR EQUIVALENT As part of the pre-enrolment process, students whose first language is not English must undertake an English proficiency assessment conducted by a recognised organisation such as the Australian Education Assessment Services (AEAS).

This assessment provides the School with a comprehensive overview of the student’s English proficiency and academic readiness, including areas such as reading, writing, listening, speaking, mathematics, and general reasoning.

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Students may complete the AEAS test in their home country if a testing centre is available.

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Test results should be submitted at the time of application to Perth College.

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Please visit the AEAS website for more information on available testing locations and practice exams.

EAL/D SUPPORT AND TRANSITION While Perth College offers EAL/D classes from Years 7 to 12 and provides small-group support where appropriate, it is not an intensive English language centre. Students who require significant English language support may be referred to a dedicated English language school (such as Phoenix Academy) before commencing at Perth College.

In these cases a conditional offer may be issued, contingent upon the successful completion of the recommended English program and re-assessment of English proficiency before the student begins classes at Perth College.

LEARNING DISCLOSURES AND ACADEMIC INTEGRITY To ensure the best possible support, parents must disclose any known learning difficulties, academic support needs, or relevant psychological, speech, or medical reports during the application process. All relevant documentation must be submitted alongside the student’s application.

A student’s final placement, including year level and subject selection, will be determined based on the English assessment results, academic history, and an enrolment interview (conducted online if overseas).

ELICOS in Perth If a student is required to complete an intensive English course prior to starting at Perth College, the School refers students to Phoenix Academy or another reputable ELICOS (English Language Intensive Course for Overseas Students) provider located in Perth. These

PERTH COLLEGE | INTERNATIONAL STUDENT HANDBOOK

programs are designed to build the student’s English language proficiency and help prepare them for entry into mainstream schooling.

For more information about Phoenix Academy, please visit: Phoenix Academy Please carefully note the following: Towards the end of the ELICOS course, and prior to enrolling at Perth College, students will be required to sit a follow-up AEAS assessment to confirm that the required level of English proficiency has been achieved.

In some cases, the student may also be asked to complete a Perth College-based assessment or participate in an interview to assess readiness.

If the student has not met the required English level, Perth College will request that the student extend their ELICOS program until the appropriate standard is achieved.

Perth College may not progress the enrolment if it is determined that the student cannot reach the required level of English proficiency.

After enrolment, if a student would benefit from ongoing or additional intensive English support beyond what Perth College offers through its EAL/D program, families will be responsible for arranging and covering the cost of any external ELICOS tuition or tutoring.

Perth College makes these decisions in the best interests of the student, to ensure they are well-positioned to succeed both academically and socially.

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Level of Entry and Course Requirements The level of entry for international students, along with course selection in the Senior School, will be determined in close consultation with the Director of Learning and Teaching and staff from English as an Additional Language or Dialect (EALD). Key factors such as the student’s age, English language proficiency (both verbal and non-verbal), and academic reports will be taken into account during the decision process.

Students in the Senior School are required to maintain at least a ‘C’ grade average each semester. In Years 11 and 12, students must achieve and engage at a level that supports the successful attainment of the Western Australian Certificate of Education (WACE).

SENIOR SCHOOL COURSE SELECTION Course programs for the Senior School are finalised each September. The timetable for these courses will influence course availability for students finalising enrolment after this date. All students must meet specific prerequisites for entry into Year 11 and Year 12 courses.

Perth College provides every opportunity for success through its comprehensive academic programs and support structures (both academic and pastoral).

THE SCHOOL CURRICULUM AND STANDARDS AUTHORITY (SCSA) The School Curriculum and Standards Authority (SCSA) is an independent statutory authority responsible for setting standards of student achievement, as well as for the assessment and certification of those achievements in Western Australia. The SCSA develops and accredits courses and defines curriculum and assessment guidelines for schools.

WESTERN AUSTRALIAN CERTIFICATE OF EDUCATION (WACE) The WACE is awarded to students upon successful completion of their senior secondary education. It is recognised by universities, industry, and training providers across Australia and internationally as part of the Australian Qualifications Framework (AQF). University entry scores obtained at Perth College are transferable to universities across Australia, as well as many accredited institutions in the United Kingdom, USA, and Canada.

WACE REQUIREMENTS To qualify for the WACE, students must meet the following requirements: • Demonstrate a minimum standard of literacy and numeracy, as determined by SCSA through NAPLAN or OLNA testing.

• Complete at least twenty course units (or the equivalent) over Years 11 and 12.

• Fulfill one of the following options in Year 12: – Complete at least four ATAR Courses, – Complete at least five General Courses (or a combination of General and up to three ATAR courses), or – Complete a Certificate II (or higher) VET qualification in combination with ATAR, General, or Foundation Courses.

WESTERN AUSTRALIAN STATEMENT OF STUDENT ACHIEVEMENT (WASSA) At the conclusion of Year 12, all students will receive a Western Australian Statement of Student Achievement (WASSA). This document provides a formal record of all achievements for Year 12 students upon completing their secondary education in Western Australia.

PERTH COLLEGE | INTERNATIONAL STUDENT HANDBOOK

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Arranging Visas

Most international students intending to study in Australia require a student visa. However, some visa holders may also be eligible to study as overseas students. Many students choose to apply for a visa themselves online, but the application process can be complex. For students from certain countries, it may be beneficial to seek assistance from an accredited agent, who has experience with the visa process and requirements.

To apply for a student visa, you will need: • A valid passport, • An electronic Confirmation of Enrolment (eCoE) from Perth College, and • Any other documentation required by the Australian diplomatic post where you submit your application.

Please ensure that you allow sufficient time for visa processing between lodging your application and the start of the academic program, as the processing time can vary depending on your country of origin.

Perth College staff are not qualified to provide visa application advice and cannot influence, or guarantee the outcome of the visa.

DEPARTMENT OF HOME AFFAIRS The Australian Government’s Department of Home Affairs (DHA) provides detailed information about student visa requirements, the application process, and a document checklist to assist you. For the latest information, please visit: www.homeaffairs.gov.au.

EDUCATION AGENTS Perth College is pleased to communicate directly with families or collaborate with nominated agents. We will only engage with reputable, registered agents that a school representative has personally met and has an agreement with, in line with Standard 4 of the National Code of Practice for Providers of Education and Training to Overseas Students 2018.

VISA CONDITIONS If you are granted a visa, it is essential to abide by its conditions. Failure to comply may result in the cancellation of the visa. Conditions include, but are not limited to: • Completing the course within the duration specified in the CoE, • Maintaining satisfactory academic progress, • Maintaining approved Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) while in Australia, • Remaining with the principal education provider for at least six calendar months unless granted a release to attend another institution, and • Notifying the School of your Australian address and any changes within 7 days.

For a full list of student visa conditions, visit: www.homeaffairs.gov.au/trav/complying-with-yourobligations.

OVERSEAS STUDENT HEALTH COVER All international students on student visas must have Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) in place before entering Australia to ensure they are covered for medical and hospital care throughout the duration of their visa.

Parents are responsible for arranging OSHC for their daughter and must provide a copy to Perth College. This step must be completed before the Certificate of Enrolment can be issued for the student visa application.

PERTH COLLEGE | INTERNATIONAL STUDENT HANDBOOK

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Accommodation

Perth College will not act as a Guardian for international students entering the School. All students must nominate a guardian based in Perth, Western Australia. Perth College will not issue a CaaW (Confirmation of Appropriate Accommodation and Welfare) for any students entering the School.

For full fee-paying International students entering the Perth College Junior School (Year 1 to Year 6), students must live with their parents or an approved student guardian at a Perth address (as approved by the Department of Home Affairs).

PERTH COLLEGE | INTERNATIONAL STUDENT HANDBOOK

For full fee-paying International students entering the Perth College Senior School (from Year 7 to Year 11), students must live with their parents or an approved student Guardian (as approved by the Department of Home Affairs) at a Perth address; or alternatively, students must live in the Perth College Boarding House, and have an approved Student Guardian (as approved by the Department of Home Affairs on their student visa) who is living locally in Perth. This guardian must also act as their local carer.

For more information, please refer to our Young Overseas Accommodation and Welfare Policy on our website.

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Nomination of Guardian based in Perth All International Students enrolled in the Perth College Boarding House must have a blood relative as a local guardian living in Perth for the duration of their schooling.

This welfare arrangement can consist of either or a combination of: • A parent that is travelling with the student under a parent-guardian visa issued by Department of Home Affairs

The parent of blood relative must be over the age of 25 years. They must agree to the below conditions: • Contactable 24 hours a day – 7 days a week • Able to collect the student from the Boarding House within 2 hours of being contacted.

• A blood relative that is an Australian Citizen or permanent resident that is listed as the guardian on the International Students visa application approved by the Department of Home Affairs.

PERTH COLLEGE | INTERNATIONAL STUDENT HANDBOOK

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How to Apply

STEP 1: ENQUIRY AND APPLICATION

STEP 5: FINALISE VISA CONDITIONS

To begin the enrolment process, please complete the Enrolment Application Form via our website.

You will then need to finalise your daughter’s visa application with the Department of Home Affairs and inform Perth College of her local guardianship arrangements as approved by the Department.

You will need to upload a translated copy of your daughter’s Birth Certificate, her recent School Reports (a minimum of 2 full years), and any other certifications/awards, including her English Proficiency Test score (AEAS).

STEP 2: INTERVIEW AND OFFER Once the Enrolments Team has reviewed your daughter’s application and documents, they will arrange an interview.

You must attend the interview with your daughter. A video conference is also available if you cannot visit Perth College.

The School will provide recommendations on her entry year and level, as well as any ELICOS (English Language Intensive Course for Overseas Students) requirements.

If your daughter is successful in securing an enrollment offer at Perth College following the interview, you will receive a Letter of Offer. If an ELICOS course is required, the offer will be conditional upon your daughter reaching the necessary level of English proficiency.

STEP 3: STUDENT ACCEPTANCE To accept the offer, please return all signed forms, including the School’s Conditions of Enrolment form and the Student Written Agreement. You will also need to pay the International Student Entry Fee.

STEP 4: ENROLMENTS TEAM AT PERTH COLLEGE Once your acceptance is confirmed, the Enrolments Team will issue an electronic Confirmation of Enrolment (eCoE) to you and/or your appointed agent.

PERTH COLLEGE | INTERNATIONAL STUDENT HANDBOOK

Please also arrange for her Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) for the duration of her visa and notify Perth College once it has been purchased.

STEP 6: TRAVEL ARRANGEMENTS Once the visa is finalised, please arrange your daughter’s travel to Perth and provide her travel details to Perth College.

STEP 7: ARRIVAL IN PERTH Upon arrival, your daughter will either move into the Perth College Boarding House or stay with her local guardian or family member, as specified on her visa. Please note that Perth College requires all international students to have a local guardian or family member in Perth; Homestay arrangements are not approved.

STEP 8: INTERNATIONAL STUDENT ORIENTATION The International Student Coordinator will arrange inductions with our Perth College staff, ensuring a welcoming experience for our International students.

They’ll also be introduced to their student buddy, who will help make the transition smooth and enjoyable.

STEP 9: CLASSES BEGIN Once orientation is complete, your daughter will commence classes at Perth College.

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Orientation

All future students will be invited to attend an orientation program during October-November before they commence.

Boarders are invited to stay and sleep in the Boarding House. This event is coordinated by the Leadership Team and supporting staff. It includes year-group activities, all meals and an introduction to opportunities at the school.

PERTH COLLEGE | INTERNATIONAL STUDENT HANDBOOK

Students can tour the campus, make friends, meet relevant staff and their “buddy”, and learn more about the history, values and routines to be expected when they arrive the following year.

Attending Orientation is highly beneficial for future students, but if they are unable to do so, there will also be an Orientation session on the first day of school.

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Uniform Guidelines

The Perth College school uniform helps shape our students’ sense of identity and belonging to the School. The uniform reflects the grounded nature of our community and promotes a sense of inclusiveness.

Perth College students represent the School with pride and, as such, it is expected that students wear the full school uniform with no embellishments. The expectations are that uniform items are in good repair, clean, ironed and wellfitting. The School uniform is worn on all School excursions.

Students are expected to have each article of their uniform clearly labelled with their name.

The School does not accept responsibility for the loss of any possessions.

ONLINE UNIFORM SHOP The Uniform Shop is located at 38 Queens Crescent, Mount Lawley, WA, 6050.

The Uniform Shop is open on the following days: • Tuesday 12.00 pm to 5.00 pm • Wednesday 12.00 pm to 6.00 pm • Thursday 12.00 pm to 5.00 pm Parents and students are encouraged to make an appointment. If you have any questions, please email uniform.shop@pc.wa.edu.au.

You can order uniform items via our Online Shop and collect your order from Main Reception after you receive a confirmation email.

You can make an appointment or shop online via this link.

PERTH COLLEGE | INTERNATIONAL STUDENT HANDBOOK

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Communication and Contact

For questions or concerns, the communication flowchart below provides the process to follow.

Inquiry or concern I N TE R N A T IO NA L S T U D ENT / P A R ENT

ACA DEMI C

I N TE R N ATI O N A L S T U D ENT C O -O R D INA T O R

P A S T O R A L C A R E / HEA L T H

Parent emails or phones Subject Teacher.

Contact our International student co-ordinator who will direct you to the appropriate person if they are unable to assist.

Parent emails or phones Kaya Teacher.

ISSUE RESO LV E D ?

YES - No further action required

IS S U E R ES O L V ED ?

NO

NO

Parent emails or phones Head of Department of subject area.

YES - No further action required

NO

Parent emails or phones appropriate Head of Year.

NO

Parent emails or phones Head of Learning and Teaching.

YES - No further action required

NO

Parent emails or phones Head of Student Wellbeing.

NO

Parent emails or phones Director of Learning and Teaching.

YES - No further action required

NO

Parent emails or phones Director of Wellbeing.

NO

Contact the Vice Principal to discuss your concern.

If unresolved, please contact the Principal.

EMAIL CONTACT

PARENT-TEACHER CONTACT

Staff can be contacted by email using the following: firstname.surname@pc.wa.edu.au

Learning Conferences are held once a year and offer an opportunity for feedback and discussion between parents and teachers about each student’s progress.

It is reasonable to expect a reply to a parent communication within two working days.

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Policies

Perth College has a number of policies specifically relating to International Students, including our refund policy.

You can find all relevant policies on our website.

These policies ensure a smooth transition and understanding of the expectations within our school community.

In addition to these, there are also whole-school policies that are important for both students and families to read and be familiar with before commencing at Perth College.

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31 Lawley Crescent, Mount Lawley WA 6050 PO Box 25, Mount Lawley WA 6929 (08) 9471 2100 | info@pc.wa.edu.au perthcollege.wa.edu.au ABN 60 629 470 092

CRICOS Code 00445D