Inspired by the Gospels’ values, John Paul College provides an exemplary and holistic education within the Catholic tradition.
Our community welcomes students and their families from the parishes and communities of the greater Frankston region. We believe every student’s success is grounded in quality learning and teaching, and a school culture that fosters wellbeing, promotes resilience, and inspires faith in action.
Our Values
We treasure our spirit of community and the values that flow from it — courage, perseverance, and generosity. The strength of our House system is anchored in these values and the charism we inherit from the lives of our founders. Today, we live by our values and animate them within a culture that:
• Respects the dignity of every person
• Is inclusive, compassionate, just and forgiving, and
• Honours the integrity of creation through careful stewardship
Our History
Our College has a rich heritage in the tradition of the FCJ Sisters and the Marianist order. These men and women were instrumental in establishing a community inspired by faith in the good news of Jesus. We too are inspired to continue the journey of faith and are nurtured and guided by the charisms of these two orders, as we work together for the benefit of our young people.
Our decision to join John Paul College has been one of our best. The fact that both our children look forward to going to school speaks volumes. We see our children thrive academically, socially, and personally and you can’t ask for more.
LINDSEY, John Paul College parent
John Paul College operates with the consent of the Catholic Archbishop of Melbourne and is operated and governed by Melbourne
Explore John Paul College With Us
Dear Parents, Guardians and Students,
John Paul College celebrates a rich history of providing students with a comprehensive education in a catholic environment. Our mission drives us to develop a culture that fosters wellbeing, promotes resilience, and inspires faith in action. We are dedicated to nurturing individuals beyond simple measures of academic achievement, creating an environment that values emotional intelligence, critical thinking, and social responsibility. In partnership with you, we aim to equip our students with the knowledge and skills they need to find their place in the world.
Choosing the right education for your child is one of the most significant decisions you will make, and I am pleased that you are considering John Paul College. Our College aim is to create a place where every student feels supported and cared for - a place where every student is known and where faith and community are integral to our identity. This is how we live out our mission: “With Him is the fullness of life.” (Jn 10:10)
Inspired by Gospel values, it is our spirit of community and the values that flow from it—courage, perseverance and generosity that you will see in our staff and students every day, shaping our behaviours and our teaching practice. Our dedicated teachers work together to deliver engaging learning experiences. Their expertise ensures the provision of a tailored and future-focused education that recognises each students’ unique needs, goals, and talents. It is within this supportive and enriching environment, that your child will thrive, develop a love of learning, and realise their full potential.
I invite you to visit us and experience firsthand the warmth and connection that make John Paul College such a unique place to be. It is then that you will witness the strong sense of community and you will begin to imagine how your child could thrive within our College.
Kind Regards,
MR JOHN VISENTIN College Principal
LEARNING AND TEACHING
Engaging Learners
At John Paul College we work in partnership with parents to provide our students with a well-rounded education that incorporates both academic learning and personal development.
Our educators foster a love of learning, creating vibrant classroom environments filled with curiosity and mutual respect. Recognising the diverse needs of each student, we ensure every learner has the flexibility, agency and choice needed to develop the positive academic habits required for their study, learning, and academic performance.
We understand that learning and teaching are not just about delivering or understanding knowledge and content, but also encompass emotional and intellectual growth. Guided by our Learning and Teaching Vision, our curriculum is designed around developing the elements of knowledge, capabilities, and self and is structured to build skills in critical thinking, problem solving, collaboration, creativity, and communication.
Elements of Learning Knowledge Capabilities Self
John Paul College is such a vibrant and welcoming community. We have so many opportunities to participate, so no matter where your interests lie, John Paul College has something to offer.
BRIDIE, John Paul College student
LEARNING AND TEACHING
Engaging Learners
Middle School
The Year 7 and 8 curriculum offers students a wide range of subjects, providing them with exposure to a variety of disciplines to help them discover their interests and strengths. Designed to facilitate a seamless transition to secondary school, the Year 7 and 8 curriculum focuses on building foundational knowledge and study skills across core subjects of English, Art, Mathematics, Humanities, Physical Education and Health, Religious Education and Italian.
In addition to core subjects, students experience a range of specialist subjects such as Food Studies, Dance, Textiles, STEM and Music. These semester-based subjects further enrich their learning and allow them to shape areas of interest and begin to consider future pathways.
By Year 9, students broaden their academic horizons by incorporating a greater number of elective subjects into their core curriculum. These electives are selected based on individual preferences, allowing students to further explore interests and lay the groundwork for their future courses of study. This pivotal stage in their educational journey empowers students to take ownership of their learning path, making informed decisions that align with their interests.
Senior School
As students enter their final years of secondary school, learning pathways become more flexible and diverse. Senior school students have exclusive access to the Chaminade Centre. Purpose built to replicate a tertiary learning environment, this new building sets the standard for what contemporary education should look like. It offers students an immersive educational experience, preparing them for the opportunities of further education and the workforce.
The Senior School Curriculum has been designed to support students choosing pathways for success in Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE), Victorian Certificate of Education Vocational Major (VCE VM) or Vocational Education and Training (VET). Students are encouraged to plan their pathway as a three-year program, allowing them to tailor their education to their individual strengths, interests, and empowering them to achieve their academic and personal goals with confidence.
Fostering Growth
At John Paul College, student wellbeing is integral to academic and personal development and forms the foundation of our mission. We know students learn best when their wellbeing is optimised. By prioritising wellbeing alongside academic achievement, we empower students to thrive academically, emotionally, and socially.
Our approach to wellbeing is defined by four key Elements for Wellbeing: Pastoral Care, Community Engagement, Child Safety and Student Voice and Agency. Each of these plays a crucial role in fostering a holistic learning environment.
We support student wellbeing through our dedicated Pastoral Care groups and a curriculum designed to nurture the whole child. Students gather in pastoral groups, where they connect with their peers and mentors, engaging in meaningful discussions about social skills, mental health, and study strategies.
The heart of our wellbeing efforts is our Wellbeing Hub, a warm and welcoming space where students can find assistance and support. Psychologists and counsellors are available to offer confidential guidance, helping students navigate personal challenges or simply providing a quiet environment for reflection. The Hub embodies our commitment to ensuring that every student feels heard and supported.
We offer a variety of programs including Passport to Leadership, Peer Support, community service and social justice initiatives that empower students to better understand their place in the world.
Our approach to student wellbeing is not just about providing support when needed, it is about fostering an environment where every student can thrive and reach their full potential. By understanding the unique needs of each student, we can better prepare them, not only for academic success but for a fulfilling and balanced life.
Wellbeing Vision
Child Safety Community Engagement
Pastoral Care
Student Voice and Agency
I love that John Paul College is such a community minded school that strives to get the best out of everyone.
John Paul College student
XAVIER,
FAITH
Inspiring Purpose
A Holistic Approach to Catholic Education
The faith of our community and the mission of John Paul College is the foundation of all that we do as a learning community. Developing the faith and spirituality of young people is part of delivering a holistic education and in doing so, we honour the traditions of our founding religious orders, the Marianists, and the Faithful Companions of Jesus. These men and women were instrumental in establishing a community of faith inspired by the good news of Jesus.
There are a variety of ways for students to engage with their faith, including through the Religious Education curriculum, lunchtime clubs, volunteering and extra-curricula activities.
Our Catholic faith has a particular call to service to others, particularly the marginalised in our community. John Paul College endeavours to develop truly altruistic service experiences for young people, encouraging them to become passionate agents of change in the world.
CO-CURRICULAR
Igniting Interests
We encourage every student to embrace a rich array of opportunities and programs outside of the classroom, to foster resilience, creativity, and teamwork.
Our co-curricular programs enable students to discover their passions and embrace new adventures. Whether their interests lie in academics, sport, the arts or social justice, our co-curricular programs ensure that each student is fully supported to explore and engage in a variety of activities outside the classroom.
The school is great with catering for all interests and passions whether it’s music, theatre or sports, there are amazing opportunities for everyone no matter your interest or skill level.
JESSE, John Paul College student
Sport
John Paul College has a proud sporting tradition. With exceptional facilities, experienced coaches, and memberships in the Southern Independent Schools association and School Sports Victoria, our students thrive in a supportive and competitive environment. Our emphasis on teamwork and leadership development ensures that every student not only hones their athletic abilities but also cultivates essential skills for life beyond the playing field.
My experience has been excellent due to the wide variety of sports available and the encouragement from teachers. I have enjoyed playing handball, basketball, and football. The College’s support has truly motivated me to pursue and advance my football career.
DARCY, John Paul College student
Production is such an incredible opportunity, coming to rehearsals and putting on the show is so much fun and such a great experience. The amazing theatre at John Paul College provides a great place to rehearse and it really brings our shows to life.
JESSE, John Paul College student
Igniting Interests
Performing Arts
A contemporary, dynamic, and vibrant Arts Program allows students to excel in any facet of the Arts that sparks their passion. Involvement in the Arts provides students with the platform to develop their creativity, self-expression, and confidence in a safe and supportive environment.
The Ngargee Centre is home to our Arts program; a vibrant hub where students can unlock creativity, develop skills and be inspired. The extracurricular Arts opportunities include Arts Night, instrumental music program, vocal ensembles, Theatre Sports squad, Dance Club, and the full-scale College Production.
Academic
We are dedicated to providing students with experiences that extend beyond the traditional classroom curriculum. Through engaging in competitive and collaborative events such as Chess, Teen Chef, SIS Book in a Day, Debating and Public Speaking, Tournament of Minds, Australian Mathematics Competition, Australian Geography Competition, and Australian History Competition, our students can showcase their talents, build confidence, and foster teamwork.
SIS
Debating has been an incredible experience and a wonderful opportunity for me to learn how a debate works and how to formulate well-constructed arguments. I enjoyed how any victory was always a team effort as everyone worked together as a cohesive unit.
