PROSPECTUS
XAVIER CATHOLIC COLLEGE BALLINA
Xavier Catholic College acknowledges the Nyangbul people of the Bundjalung Nation, who are the traditional custodians of this land that the College resides on.
We pay our respects to the connection they have with the land and water that surrounds us, and pay our respects to any elders past, present and emerging.
Welcome to
Xavier Catholic College
Xavier Catholic College is a co-educational school nestled in the beautiful Northern Rivers region of New South Wales. As part of the Diocese of Lismore Catholic Schools network, we provide a nurturing environment for students from Years 7 to 12, guided by the principles of the Ignatian tradition:
• Educating the whole person — heart, mind and soul
• Seeking God in all things
• Becoming men and women for others.
Here, students are at the heart of everything we do. We believe in fostering growth that extends beyond the classroom, encouraging curiosity, a love of learning, and a sense of purpose that stays with students throughout their lives.
Our approach encourages students to develop their personal best, academically, personally, and spiritually, guided by values that emphasise balance and reflection. Our Jesuit heritage offers generations of educational and pastoral experience to support learners as they grow into adulthood. With the support of passionate teachers, students are free to explore their interests, take on new challenges, and discover what truly drives them.
Surrounded by inspiring natural beauty, Xavier Catholic College draws on the unique coastal lifestyle of our area to enhances our students’ educational experience. Our region’s stunning beaches and lush landscapes not only provide a serene backdrop for learning but also foster a strong sense of community. This vibrant environment nurtures both wellbeing and academic growth, allowing students to thrive in all aspects of their lives.
At Xavier, students are encouraged to pursue their passions, whether through spiritual programs, community engagement, or extracurricular activities. These experiences, along with the wider support of our Diocesan network, help students to shape their journey and unlock new opportunities.
We believe education opens doors to new possibilities, and we’re here to support each student along the way.
From the
Principal
At Xavier Catholic College, we are immensely proud of our vibrant community and the remarkable growth we've experienced over the years.
Our College offers a caring and supportive environment where every student is encouraged to reach their full potential. Guided by the Gospel values, we are committed to providing a holistic education that nurtures the mind, heart, and spirit.
Our students have access to a wide range of opportunities that inspire and empower them, helping them grow into compassionate and responsible young men and women ready to take their place in the world. We work closely with parents and carers, fostering a partnership that supports the development of each student academically, socially, and spiritually.
Our strong academic results reflect our commitment to excellence, and we take pride in helping students achieve their best. At Xavier Catholic College, we believe that education is a journey, one that is enriched through a blend of rigorous learning, faith-based values, and a deep sense of community.
I invite you to join us in building a future of promise and possibility, where every student is seen, valued, and encouraged to flourish.
mr lee macmaster college principal
The year 2000 always promised to be a year of great adventure and excitement — the new millennium, the Church’s Jubilee year, and the new Xavier Catholic College.
eric littler, foundation principal
Story Our
The Xavier Catholic College story begins with a thirty-year dream to provide world-class Catholic education in the Ballina Parish.
A site only moments away from the coastline would soon become Xavier Catholic College: a secondary high school named for St Francis Xavier, a Spanish Catholic missionary who also co-founded the Society of Jesus.
On January 31 2000, Xavier Catholic College welcomed its first students: 118 Year 7 students from across the region, ready to make the leap to high school under the guidance of nine teachers and foundation Principal, Eric Littler. By 2005, we were farewelling the first graduating class of Xavier Catholic College, as well as teaching 840 students across six year levels. We received our first HSC results, with students acknowledged for their outstanding academic performance in a range of subjects. It would set the tone for our success in years to come. We first began teaching students in our Jubilee and Satterthwaite blocks, with an administration building alongside to accommodate our front office and staff room. As the years progressed, we would add a purpose-built technology centre (the Farrelly block), additional classrooms (the Carroll and Doyle Blocks), specialist digital technology spaces, creative arts rooms, a library, and sporting facilities to our grounds, as well as a multipurpose hall to complete our expansion.
Over the past decade, Xavier Catholic College has experienced a period of remarkable growth and transformation. We’ve seen the completion of significant building projects, creating wonderful spaces for learning and the arts.
Our students have consistently achieved outstanding results, including our first-ever First in State placement in 2011, and continued success in the years following. We are incredibly proud of our students’ achievements across academic, sporting, spiritual, and extracurricular areas, which have solidified our position as a leading school in the region.
This journey has also been marked by a deepening connection to our Jesuit identity, leading to our formal recognition as a Jesuit Companion School in 2016. This connection has enriched our community, fostering a spirit of service and reflection, and has extended our reach globally through partnerships like our sister school relationship with Our Lady of Fatima High School in Timor-Leste.
Now, in 2025, we offer education to approximately 900 students in Years 7 to 12, with over 100 teaching and ancillary staff on hand to support our College community. We continue to be a pioneering centre of education in the Northern Rivers, developing graduates of competence, commitment, conscience and compassion in the spirit of our Jesuit roots.
From the outset, we have always been a College that aspires to make a difference in our world. We invite you to join us on our journey and to be part of our future.
Our
Faith
Faith is at the heart of life at Xavier Catholic College. As a Jesuit Companion School, we are part of a global community of schools in the Ignatian tradition whose mission is to provide an education that nourishes the whole person.
Our Religious Education curriculum, studied in the junior years, builds our students’ spiritual literacy in the Ignatian Catholic tradition, fostering personal growth and a deeper understanding of their faith. Senior students can then choose to deepen their practical understanding of Christian teachings through the Catholic Faith in Action course, which takes students out into the community to serve others, or they can choose to develop their understanding of world faiths through Studies of Religion courses.
Students engage in various faith-based activities at the College, from College Masses and liturgies to small-group prayer and reflection activities. Integrated retreat experiences in each year level give our students an opportunity to grow as young people who are committed to living for others, while discovering their passions, strengths and dreams for the future.
Students are also encouraged to become involved in our extensive Diocesan and Ignatian ministry experiences, including our Immersion Program in Timor-Leste. Through these programs, our students can learn more about the world in which they live and develop their sense of community, generosity, and reaching out to those less fortunate.
Closer to home, our College outreach program celebrates students who offer their time to their local community, be it through volunteering, community work, or parish-based activities. Each House Group also fundraises for a cause close to their hearts each year, with all funds going to benefit causes large and small.
By the time a student graduates from Xavier Catholic College, we hope that they will have a strong sense of integrity and a heart filled with compassion for others.
And what does the Lord require of you?
To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.
micah 6:8 — our college motto
Jesuit education has always been worldaffirming, encouraging a study of all reality and seeking to produce wisdom.
jesuit education
australia
Ignatian An Education
Xavier Catholic College has been a Jesuit Companion School since 2016. Our Jesuit tradition is foundational to our educational philosophy, and helps to guide our future steps as we grow as a College.
The Jesuit educational philosophy is grounded in the values of reflection, balance, and service. It encourages students to grow intellectually, emotionally and spiritually, helping them develop into well-rounded individuals with a heart for others. Entrenched in the teachings of St Ignatius Loyola, this approach emphasises critical thinking, self-discovery, and a commitment to justice.
Jesuit education is founded on the principle of cura personalis — or, care for the whole person. Our focus is not only on what happens in the classroom, or what knowledge our students can find in the pages of a textbook. Instead, we want to encourage our students to learn about the world, learn about themselves, and learn about others.
At Xavier Catholic College, we want to inspire our students to, in the words of St Ignatius Loyola to his followers, “set the world alight.” We want our students to spark change in the world, bring light to their community. Most of all, we hope to ignite their hearts and minds to being students of compassion, competence, commitment and conscience.
In an Ignatian learning environment, students are supported in exploring their passions and interests while being guided by caring educators. The focus is not only on academic excellence but also on fostering a sense of purpose and connection to the wider community. Through service and engagement, students learn the importance of making a positive impact in the world around them.
The College’s holistic approach to learning and teaching is grounded in the Ignatian Pedagogical Paradigm (IPP). Inspired by the educational philosophy of St Ignatius of Loyola, this model focuses on intellectual and personal growth. Our teachers look at each student’s needs and use this to develop engaging and thoughtful learning experiences with realworld applications. Through this, we aim to develop lifelong learners who are not only academically intelligent, but spiritually and emotionally intelligent, too.
Ultimately, Ignatian education prepares students to be open to growth, intellectually competent, faith-filled, loving, and dedicated to justice, shaping them into compassionate leaders for the future.
Care for thewhole person
Each student has come to us on their journey, and it’s our responsibility to meet our students where they are at on their path, then accompany them along the way.
What is Pastoral Care?
Pastoral care refers to all actions within our school to promote and enhance physical, social, emotional, psychological, intellectual and spiritual wellness. Xavier Catholic College’s pastoral care and wellbeing approach is governed by the Jesuit belief of cura personalis — that is, care for the individual. Our students are more than another face in the classroom. To us, each student is an individual with their own talents, passions, and future hopes, and our aim is to nurture all of these as we support our young people on their journey of growth.
The Wellbeing Team
The Wellbeing Team works closely with students, parents and teachers to provide our College community with a system of care and support that is responsive to individual student needs. Led by our Leader of Pastoral Care, the team includes teaching staff, allied health professionals, and experienced support staff with a passion for ensuring our students thrive throughout their time at the College, both individually and as part of our wider community.
I like the inclusive atmosphere and the support from everyone.
carina, student
Our House System
From the beginning of their journey at the College, students are placed into one of six Houses — Campion, Faber, Ignatius, MacKillop, McAuley, or Nagle. They remain in the same House throughout their time at the College, thus fostering a sense of community across different year levels.
Each House is led by a dedicated Head of House, who ensures that each student’s experience at the College embraces one of the central ideals of Jesuit education: the well-rounded person.
By understanding and guiding the students, the Heads of House support them in identifying their unique abilities, nurturing them, and using them to serve others in a faith-centred community on a path towards God.
Pastoral Care Program
Xavier Catholic College has built on years of pastoral care to create and deliver a bespoke Pastoral Care program for students in Years 7 to 9. Created with our students in mind, this program gives our young people the tools to tackle life, both in the classroom and beyond. It also focuses on providing meaningful opportunities to develop knowledge and skills that promote a greater sense of wellbeing for teenagers.
Seasons for Growth & Stormbirds
We have long associated with MacKillop Seasons programs, which are designed to support young people in responding to experiences of change, loss, and grief. Students can access these programs in small group settings, strengthening their sense of resilience.
Lifelong
Learners
Since opening our doors, Xavier Catholic College has set the standard for academic success in northern NSW, with our students achieving outstanding results across all areas of their studies.
Student learning is built upon the principles of a broad and balanced education, ensuring students experience a diverse range of subjects. We strive to create a stimulating environment where students are encouraged to ask questions, think critically, and develop a genuine love for learning.
Our curriculum at Xavier Catholic College provides a comprehensive and balanced education, where students engage in core subjects like English, Mathematics, Science, and Religious Education. These foundational subjects foster strong literacy, numeracy and critical thinking skills within our Jesuit ethos.
Through Human Society and Its Environment (HSIE) studies, including History and Geography, students gain a deeper understanding of the world and their role within it. We also encourage cultural awareness through language studies in French and Italian.
We offer opportunities for creativity and self-expression through studies in Creative Arts, including Visual Arts, Drama, Music, and Dance. Students can also engage in hands-on learning through Technologies subjects, such as Food Technology, Industrial Technology, and Textiles Technology. Studies in Digital Technologies teach essential technological skills, equipping learners for the digital age.
We prioritise physical and mental wellbeing with our Personal Development, Health and Physical Education (PDHPE) program, ensuring the holistic development of each student.
In addition to the range of subjects on offer at the College, we also support our students with studies in Distance Education or Vocational Education & Training (VET) subjects in their later years of learning. This gives them the opportunity to truly tailor their learning to their interests, as well as give them qualifications and knowledge to support their post-school aspirations.
CurriculumJunior
(Years 7–1`0)
The junior years are a time for exploration and growth as our students develop a lifelong passion for learning.
Our Year 7–10 curriculum is designed to inspire curiosity and excitement in our students while preparing them for the world that awaits them after graduation.
In Years 7 and 8, our students study courses from a range of faculties, learning the fundamental skills and knowledge that will support them in their future learning. More importantly, they’re taught how to learn — how to ask questions, seek out answers, and discover more about themselves and their world.
Practical learning complements classroom studies, giving our students a deeper understanding of how what they learn can be applied in real life.
In Years 9 and 10, our students get their first taster of elective courses, choosing some subjects that really speak to their passions. They study these courses alongside a suite of courses that continue to build on the foundations set in Years 7 and 8.
We understand that students learn in diverse ways, which is why we offer flexible learning environments tailored to individual needs. In our mixed ability classrooms, teachers are skilled at differentiating instruction, ensuring every student is challenged and supported at their appropriate level. This personalised approach allows students to progress at their own pace, maximising their individual growth.
Conversely, our streamed classes provide tailored instruction, enabling students to explore subject matter in greater depth at an accelerated pace. This focused approach allows for advanced exploration and a more rigorous academic experience, catering to students who thrive in a fast-paced environment.
We prioritise class structures that facilitate strong teacher-student connections. This allows for increased individual attention and a deeper understanding of each student's progress. We recognise diverse learning styles, and our approach allows teachers to integrate:
• Direct instruction for foundational knowledge.
• Collaborative learning via group projects.
• Project-based learning for real-world application.
• Practical application through hands-on activities.
By building strong relationships and using varied teaching, we ensure every student can thrive.
CurriculumSenior
(Years 11–12)
The senior years at Xavier Catholic College are a time of focused academic pursuit, personal growth, and preparation for life beyond school.
Xavier Catholic College offers a comprehensive range of HSC courses, aligned with NSW Education Standards Authority (NESA) requirements and designed to cater to the diverse interests and aspirations of our students. Our experienced and dedicated teachers provide expert guidance, ensuring students are well-prepared for the challenges of the HSC and beyond. We provide personalised academic support, including study skills workshops, individual mentoring, and access to resources, to help students along this stage in their learning journey.
We strive to offer a curriculum that balances traditional academic subjects with contemporary and vocational pathways, allowing students to pursue their passions and explore potential career options. Students can choose from a wide array of subjects, including English, Mathematics, Sciences, HSIE, Languages, Creative Arts, Technologies, and Vocational Education & Training (VET). For students interested in vocational pathways, we offer VET courses that provide industry-recognised qualifications and practical skills, preparing them for entry into the workforce.
Xavier Catholic College prides itself on a culture of academic excellence, consistently demonstrated by our students' outstanding HSC results. Each year, a significant number of our students achieve top band results, placing them amongst the state's highest achievers. We celebrate numerous students earning places on the Distinguished Achievers list and attaining exceptional ATAR scores. This success is underpinned by the unwavering support and dedication of our experienced teachers, who provide personalised guidance and encouragement to each student. Our students' talents are further showcased through nominations and selections for prestigious HSC exhibitions and showcases, highlighting their creative and practical skills.
Beyond traditional academic pathways, Xavier Catholic College also champions vocational excellence. Our robust VET programs equip students with industry-recognised qualifications, ensuring they are well-prepared for diverse career opportunities.
We are committed to guiding our students through this crucial phase of their school journey, providing them with the support and resources they need to achieve their academic and personal goals.
PathwaysAlternate
At Xavier Catholic College, we believe in providing pathways that extend beyond traditional academics. These pathways blend practical skills with academic achievement, giving students a distinct advantage as they prepare for their future.
For students hoping to develop practical, industry-relevant skills and qualifications, Vocational Education and Training (VET) courses and School-Based Apprenticeships and Traineeships (SBATs) are a fantastic way to complement their studies. These programs provide students with the opportunity to gain nationally recognised qualifications while completing their Higher School Certificate (HSC).
Designed to provide students with the skills and knowledge required for specific industries, VET courses combine theoretical learning with practical experiences. Upon successful completion, students receive a nationally recognised qualification (typically a Certificate II or III) and contribute towards their senior studies. All VET courses are aligned with the standards set by the NSW Education Standards Authority (NESA).
Students at Xavier Catholic College can choose from a range of VET courses, including:
• Construction
• Entertainment
• Fitness
• Hospitality
Students can study VET courses through TAFE, or aother industry-recognised courses that may interest them. Our students have studied everything from fashion to marine science, and aviation to tourism.
For those students who want a head start on their future career, an SBAT may be of interest. Students undertake an apprenticeship or traineeship with an employer while also attending school, providing invaluable real-world experience they can take into their post-school journey. SBATs are available in various industries, depending on employer availability and student interests.
LeadershipStudent
At Xavier Catholic College, we are committed to forming leaders in the Ignatian tradition, rooted in the values of service, reflection, and discernment. We believe that leadership is not merely about holding a title, but about using one's gifts to serve others and build a more just and compassionate world.
Our Student Voice Council, a student-led initiative, embodies the Ignatian practice of discernment. Students in Years 7—11 come together to reflect on the needs of the College community, engage in thoughtful dialogue, and collaboratively develop solutions. This process fosters critical thinking, empathy, and a commitment to the common good. We encourage students to see their voices as instruments for positive change, aligning with the Ignatian call to "set the world on fire."
Our senior students can also be elected as College Captains, whether for their House or for the wider College. Our Captains are called to be "men and women for others," embodying the Ignatian ideal of service. They lead by example, fostering a spirit of unity and collaboration within the College community. Their roles are not about personal recognition but about using their talents to serve their peers and contribute to the flourishing of the whole College.
We encourage students to represent the College at various events and in the wider community, seeing these opportunities as moments for reflection and engagement with the world. Through community service, sporting events, and public speaking, students learn to apply their Ignatian values to real-world situations. They are challenged to consider how their actions can contribute to a more just and equitable society, reflecting the Ignatian call to be "contemplatives in action."
Our student leadership program is designed to develop leaders of integrity and purpose, grounded in the Ignatian tradition. We strive to cultivate students who are not only academically successful but also deeply committed to serving others and making a positive impact on the world. We believe that by nurturing these qualities, we are preparing students to become transformative leaders who will contribute to the betterment of our society.
Each one of you has the seed of leadership inside you. Be leaders... leaders of thought, leaders of action, leaders of joy, leaders of hope, leaders of the construction of a better world. pope francis
Beyond the classroom
Our co-curricular activities support student learning and wellbeing and helps them to build connections and confidence throughout their time at Xavier Catholic College. Whether your child’s interests lie in the arts, on the sporting fields, or in extended learning opportunities, there’s a program to suit them.
Clubs and Groups
Students can join a variety of clubs and groups at the College to learn new skills and form new friendships. We offer a wide range of activities that might interest students, and each year, new and different activities are offered at the request of our College community. Students are also welcome to start their own groups or clubs for issues and interests they’re passionate about.
Throughout the year, these clubs and groups give students a chance to participate in competitions, community activities, and more, guided by our College staff. This gives them a well-rounded school experience that builds their confidence and gives them new skills as young people.
The Arts
Xavier Catholic College’s Arts program is built on the foundations learned in class and is fueled by passionate staff and students.
Our Dance Troupe Program offers students the opportunity to strengthen their skills outside of the classroom under the guidance of our specialist Dance teachers. They can then take their talents to the stage at local Eisteddfods and other community events.
Our Instrumental Program gives budding musicians the chance to learn an instrument outside of their regular Music classes. They can also take part in our Music Tuition program, learning from some of the region’s best music tutors right here at the College. Students also have the opportunity to join our College Band and Choir, where they can perform at community and College events alongside their peers.
Sport
Xavier Catholic College offers a wide range of competitive and non-competitive sporting activities for all abilities. Students are encouraged to take part in any sports they choose, and we’re always looking for new ways to challenge our students on the field!
Our sporting programs give students an appreciation of sports, encouraging them to build positive skills such as teamwork and a sense of fair play. These team sports are also a great way for students to build camaraderie with their peers and build on some of the traits we emphasise in a Jesuit education: working in partnership with others, and always striving for excellence in everything we do.
We are active participants in our area’s interschools sporting competitions, as well as in Catholic Interschools programs within our Diocese and NSW. Our students regularly compete in elite sporting competitions, including renowned national events, and represent our College proudly.
Students can participate in a variety of sports, including hockey, rugby league, volleyball, netball, AFL, touch football, soccer, and rugby. Our students have also recently revived our surfing program, hitting the waves at the Australian Interschools Surfing Championships with outstanding results.
As part of our junior curriculum, students from Years 7 to 10 also participate in a variety of community sports. These programs include school-based sessions delivered by personal trainers and activities at local sporting facilities.
We want to make sure our students are physically active — it’s the foundation of health and wellbeing.
Year 9 Program
Year 9 presents a wonderful opportunity to introduce students to more innovative and dynamic learning approaches. Our Year 9 Program is designed to engage students and provide real-world connections to their classroom learning, providing life experiences they’ll remember for the rest of their lives.
The program is linked to syllabus learning outcomes in Religious Education and PDHPE and extends students’ learning in both key learning areas. Students are involved in a variety of community and school-based activities with a different focus each term, learning from their peers, staff members and community members. Not only do they gain a deeper understanding of what they’re learning in the classroom, they discover more about themselves as young people: their emotions, their dreams, and their passions.
The Year 9 Program is a feautre of Xavier Catholic College’s curriculum delivery and sets students up for success throughout their high school and life journey.
at Xavier Belonging
At Xavier Catholic College, we’re committed to making sure every student is supported, included, and able to thrive, no matter their needs.
We believe that every student belongs and deserves to be recognised for their unique gifts. We know that some may need extra support to reach their personal best at school. That’s why we’re committed to providing the right assistance and guidance to every student, no matter the need.
The Inclusion & Diversity Team
Our dedicated Inclusion & Diversity team works closely with students and teachers to make sure our students get all the support they need. Whether it’s making small adjustments in class, or offering more specialised guidance, our teachers’ aides, intervention specialists, and inclusion teachers are here to assist, every step of the way. And we do all of this in partnership with parents and students, creating a real sense of collaboration between home and the College.
The Learning Centre
Any student is welcome to visit the Learning Centre should they require assistance with any aspect of their learning. Whether that be catching up on a lesson or working through an assignment, our team is ready to assist, ensuring students can return to class feeling confident and calm.
The Rodriguez Room
The Rodriguez Room serves as a dedicated space for pastoral care and student support, offering a safe and welcoming environment for students to access guidance from our Wellbeing team.
Education Indigenous
Choosing Xavier means joining a College that walks together with families, fostering belonging, achievement, and cultural pride.
At Xavier Catholic College, Ballina, we proudly recognise that we learn, live, and grow together on Bundjalung Country. We honour the rich cultures, histories, and spiritual connections of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and are deeply committed to fostering a welcoming and supportive environment for all students. For families considering Xavier, know that your child will be embraced by a College community that values cultural identity, respect, and strong partnerships with parents and community.
Our dedicated Aboriginal Education staff work closely with students and families, offering personalised support, mentoring, and advocacy to ensure every young person feels proud, connected, and empowered to thrive. In-class support is tailored to individual needs, with student voice playing a strong role in developing these learning goals. Each student receives the attention needed to thrive in the classroom, and to achieve their personal, academic and cultural goals.
We actively engage with our local Bundjalung Elders and Indigenous community members to enrich learning and create meaningful cultural experiences for all students. Together, we celebrate and honour Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures throughout the year. Important occasions such as NAIDOC Week, National Reconciliation Week, and Sorry Day are recognised with respect and participation from our whole College community.
Xavier Catholic College is committed to equity of educational opportunity for every student. We strive to ensure that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students are supported academically, socially, and spiritually, within a culturally safe environment where their stories and voices are valued.
Our
Community
Our parents and families are an essential part of the Xavier Catholic College community. We work in partnership with families to support our students’ growth, but also to support how our College continues to evolve to meet the demands of 21st-century education.
Xavier Catholic College Parent Group
Our Parent Group meets each term to discuss important issues at our College, working with our Leadership Team to ensure we’re always working towards being the best we can be. We know that parents are the best advocates for their children — by involving them in discussions about our College, we know that we’re all committed to the same goal of nurturing our students’ academic, pastoral and spiritual growth.
All parents are invited to join the Parent Group, no matter what year level their child is in.
The Diocesan Parent Assembly
The Diocesan Parent Assembly walks alongside families throughout their child’s educational journey in the Diocese of Lismore. Parents can take part in a range of workshops and presentations, meet other Diocesan families at Parish events, and learnmore about the school/family partnerships that are foundational to each school within our Diocese. These partnerships work to give our learners the best possible advantage in their education.
The Parent Assembly works with the College’s Parent Group in supporting our community of families. Activities and events for each stage of the parenting and school journey are regularly shared in our College newsletter and social media. All families are more than welcome to sign up for any events of interest, whether online or in person.
Our facilities
Our modern and well-equipped facilities are designed to foster a love of learning and providing an enriching educational experience.
Learning Spaces
Our contemporary classrooms are equipped with the latest technology to enhance learning, while our specialised science laboratories provide handson opportunities for exploration and discovery. The Technologies workshops offer students the space and resources to develop practical skills in design and technology, including industry-standard kitchens to support our Hospitality students. Our well-stocked library serves as a hub of knowledge, encouraging research and independent learning.
The Magis Centre
The College’s Magis Centre is our multipurpose building, drawing together sporting facilities, classrooms, performing arts spaces, and a hall.
Sports & Physical Education
Our extensive sporting fields, courts and facilities provide ample opportunities for students to engage in physical activity and develop teamwork skills. These are complemented by the Magis Centre, our large multipurpose hall that includes fully-surfaced playing fields catering to a range of indoor sports and practical PDHPE classes. Students studying VET: Fitness courses can also get hands-on experience in our College gym, which features commercial-grade exercise equipment. Outdoors, we have several basketball courts, covered outdoor learning areas, cricket nets, and an expansive oval for team games and athletics.
Creative & Performing Arts
Creative expression is key to a well-rounded education. Our performing arts spaces, including Drama and Music rooms, provide students with the opportunity to explore their talents and passions. Our Visual Arts studios are bright and inspiring, allowing students to develop their artistic skills and express their creativity.
Spirituality & Sustainability
In Jesuit education, spirituality and sustainability go hand in hand. The Manresa Chapel is a peaceful space for reflection and growth, used by students in all year levels for classroom activities and lunchtime prayer activities. We also have ample green spaces throughout the College for students to use as part of learning and social activities. Most recently, we have built a yarning circle at the College, giving all students a place to talk, share, discuss and build respectful relationships, enriching their learning experience.
Canteen
Our Canteen staff and volunteers take pride in preparing a diverse menu of fresh, healthy, and delicious food that caters to a range of dietary needs. The College Canteen is open daily and offers convenient online ordering via our College’s school management app, Compass, and also provides a walk-in service for lunch and recess on the go.
Ourlocation
Xavier Catholic College is tucked along the northern NSW coastline in the small town of Skennars Head, only 10 minutes from Ballina.
Where we are
Xavier Catholic College is located in Ballina, within the stunning Northern Rivers region of New South Wales. Nestled between lush green hills and pristine beaches, our campus benefits from a peaceful, coastal setting that inspires both learning and wellbeing. The vibrant community of Ballina offers a rich blend of natural beauty and local amenities, making it an ideal environment for students to grow academically and personally.
Getting Here
Students can get safely to and from the College using our local bus network which services beyond Byron Bay to Lismore and everywhere in between. Buses are scheduled to arrive by 8:45am and leave the College each afternoon following the end of classes at 3:15pm.
Walking and bicycle tracks are also available, and students can securely store their bikes each day in dedicated areas around the College.
Primary Schools
We are close to several primary schools in our local region. Holy Family Catholic Primary School, Skennars Head, and St Francis Xavier Primary School, Ballina, are nearby; families in Byron Bay can enrol younger siblings at St Finbarrs, Byron Bay.
For more information about primary schools in the Diocese of Lismore, visit their website: lism.catholic.edu.au/schooldirectory
Your begins... journey
We offer education for young men and women from Year 7 to Year 12. While our main entry is into Year 7, we welcome all applications for other year levels. Entry into other year levels is subject to availability at the time of application.
Tours
Join us for a College Tour and experience a day at Xavier Catholic College. Our Principal will guide you through a tour of our grounds, sharing insights into our school’s community, culture, and education. We highly recommend that prospective students join their parents on a tour to get a firsthand look at life at the College.
Tours are offered twice per term and can be booked via our website or by contacting our Enrolments Team.
Enrolments
Families interested in applying for a place for their child at Xavier Catholic College are encouraged to complete the online application form on our website.
After you have completed your application, you will be invited to the College for an enrolment interview with our Principal. Should your application be successful, our Enrolments Team will contact you to confirm your child’s enrolment at the College, and provide you with all the information you need for your child’s first day.
College Fees
Please visit our website for up-to-date information about our College fee schedule and payment methods.
Contact our Enrolments Team
Our Enrolments Team is here to support you throughout your enrolment journey, from your first enquiry to your child’s first day and beyond. For more information about what Xavier Catholic College can offer your child, please contact the Enrolments Team:
• Email: xccenrolments@lism.catholic.edu.au
• Phone: 02 6618 0121
Other Information
For more information about the enrolments journey, please visit our website using the QR code below. Our website has up-to-date information about opportunities to visit the College, application deadlines, and more. If you need any other assistance, our Enrolments Team is more than happy to answer any enquiries you may have.
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