The Xavier College

Xavier College is a Catholic school for boys (3-18) and girls (3-9) within the spiritual tradition of Saint Ignatius Loyola. The College, founded in 1878, is owned by The Society of Jesus.

Xavier College has three campuses: Kostka Hall (Brighton) years 5-8; Burke Hall (Kew) Early Learning Centre - 8; and the Senior campus (Kew) years 9-12. Boarders are accepted from year 9.

The Xavier College also has a large camp site at Buxton near Marysville. An extensive Outdoor Education Programme is provided for students from years 5-9.

The Provincial of the Society appoints a College Council to develop policy and assist the Principal in the overall management of the school. Each Campus has a Head of School who is responsible for the day to day management of the campus.

Xavier College is committed to internationalism and its Jesuit philosophy is evident in a range of ways: membership of CIS; visits, tours and student and teacher exchanges with schools worldwide; and curriculum documentation exchanges with schools overseas. The College Council has taken the decision to move towards adoption of the International Baccalaureate Programme, commencing with the IB PYP.

Xavier College offers a breadth of curriculum in the first years of school and the course of studies offered in years 5-10 reflects the educational policy of encouraging students to have a broad, cognitive education. Students are then fully prepared for the alternative courses offered in the Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE).

Computer literacy skills are taught from years 5-9 at Xavier College. Computer laboratories and class sets of laptops are available for the students. In years 10-12 all students have their own notebook computer. All classrooms have network connections.

The performing arts are well supported. Class music is compulsory to the end of year 8. There are many orchestras, bands, chamber groups and choirs operating at various levels in the school. Media and drama are compulsory in years 7 and 8 and are offered as electives through to year 12. Theatre Studies is introduced at year 10 and is offered as a VCE subject.

An extensive sporting program is offered with all boys expected to participate in playing a summer and winter sport. The College provides numerous sports fields and a sports stadium with swimming pool, gymnasium and basketball courts.