International Student Handbook
Perth College is honoured to be situated on the ancestral Lands of the Whadjuk Noongar people.
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.’
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.’
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.
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.
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.
Vision
Perth College Girls: Remarkable Women
Perth College women shape heir own futures and positively influence society.
PURPOSE
We actively pursue and embrace new approaches and word-class education excellence within an inclusive and vibrant community.
VALUES
Our values are the essence of a Perth College education and defining character traits of each student.
A PERTH COLLEGE GIRL IS:
• Capable: pursuing learning and excellence whilst striving to fulfil our potential with confidence and resourcefulness.
• Courageous: embracing and navigating challenges with strength, purpose and resilience.
• Caring: living generously, valuing relationships, and contributing to our community with integrity, respect and compassion.
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:
• 021509G PRIMARY EDUCATION
Year 1 to Year 6 (girls only, accompanied by parents)
• 0101297 JUNIOR SECONDARY EDUCATION
Years 7 to 10 (girls only, including boarders)
• 0101298 SENIOR SECONDARY EDUCATION
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).
Empowering your daughter to thrive English Language Proficiency Requirements
Perth College carefully considers school reports, awards, and an interview before issuing a Letter of Offer. Our primary concern is the wellbeing of each student, and we ensure that decisions regarding entry are made in the best interests of the student.
To ensure that students can effectively engage with the curriculum, Perth College requires students to meet a satisfactory level of English proficiency before enrolling. This is essential for a smooth transition into mainstream classes. While the School offers EAL/D classes and some support groups, it does not have an intensive language centre.
As part of the application process, parents must disclose any potential learning difficulties, and students must submit results from an English assessment test administered by an organisation such as the Australian Education Assessment Services (AEAS). This test can often be completed in the student’s home country, and the results should be included with the initial Enrolment Application.
Admission to Perth College is conditional upon reaching the required standard of English proficiency prior to enrolment. In some cases, the School may issue a conditional offer based on the successful completion of an intensive English program before the student commences classes at Perth College.
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 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.
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.
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.
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).
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.
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
• 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.
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.
How to Apply
STEP 1: ENQUIRY AND APPLICATION
To begin the enrolment process, please complete the Enrolment Application Form via our website.
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.
STEP 5: FINALISE VISA CONDITIONS
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Communication and Contact
For questions or concerns, the communication flowchart below provides the process to follow.
Inquiry or concern
INTERNATIONAL STUDENT/PARENT
ACADEMIC
Parent emails or phones Subject Teacher.
INTERNATIONAL STUDENT CO-ORDINATOR
Contact our International student co-ordinator who will direct you to the appropriate person if they are unable to assist.
ISSUE RESOLVED?
Parent emails or phones Head of Department of subject area.
Parent emails or phones Head of Learning and Teaching.
Parent emails or phones Director of Learning and Teaching.
-
- No further action required
- No further action required
PASTORAL CARE / HEALTH
Parent emails or phones Kaya Teacher.
ISSUE RESOLVED?
Parent emails or phones appropriate Head of Year.
Parent emails or phones Head of Student Wellbeing.
Parent emails or phones Director of Wellbeing.
Contact the Vice Principal to discuss your concern.
If unresolved, please contact the Principal.
EMAIL CONTACT
Staff can be contacted by email using the following: firstname.surname@pc.wa.edu.au
It is reasonable to expect a reply to a parent communication within two working days.
PARENT-TEACHER CONTACT
Learning Conferences are held once a year and offer an opportunity for feedback and discussion between parents and teachers about each student’s progress.
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.
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.
These policies ensure a smooth transition and understanding of the expectations within our school community.
