Starting high school shouldn't mean navigating a major transition overnight. At St Edmund's College, students with additional needs can begin their secondary school journey in Year 5, building confidence, independence and familiarity in a supportive specialist environment before entering Year 7.
Students don't spend Years 5 and 6 preparing for high school. They experience it.
Through a carefully supported secondary school model, students learn to navigate timetables, specialist classrooms, multiple teachers and changing routines — all while receiving the personalised support they need to succeed. This allows students to gradually develop the organisational and social skills required for a successful transition into Year 7.
By the time they reach secondary school, these routines already feel familiar.
Designed for students with mild to moderate intellectual disability, autism and sensory impairments, our program combines specialist education with genuine care.
Students benefit from:
Every student is known, valued and supported to achieve their personal best.
From the start of their journey, students are active members of the college community.
Whether participating in sporting carnivals, assemblies, camps, clubs or community events, students develop friendships, resilience and a strong sense of belonging alongside their peers.
From LEGO Club and Choir to Art Club and community activities, every experience helps students grow socially, emotionally and academically.
Beginning at St Edmund's in Year 5 provides two additional years to develop the practical, social and communication skills that prepare students not only for high school, but for life beyond school.
Throughout their education, students continue to build independence through wellbeing programs, community access, vocational learning and personalised transition planning for employment, further education and independent living. Learn more.
"By the end of the year our students were happy, confident and had formed meaningful friendships—not only within their own class but across the College. It has been wonderful to watch them independently navigate the school, read their timetables and are ready to embrace high school life."
— Michelle Le Patourel, Year 5/6 Teacher
"The opportunities St Edmund’s has provided for my daughter have been outstanding. From presenting at assembly and participating in school camp, to being encouraged to step outside her comfort zone and embrace new experiences, she has developed confidence, independence and a strong sense of belonging.
It has been wonderful to watch her flourish, not only in her learning, but also in her friendships. The personalised learning has allowed her to thrive academically and she often comes home excited to tell us about what she has learned at school, sharing her experiences and talking proudly about her achievements.
Every day, my daughter looks forward to going to school, seeing her friends and being part of the St Edmund’s community.
— Renee, Year 5/6 Parent
The success of our inaugural Stage 3 cohort has demonstrated the value of a gradual, supported transition to high school, with students moving confidently into Year 7. Read more.
Following the success of the inaugural Year 5/6 class, demand for the 2027 intake has been exceptionally strong.
One class has already reached capacity, and the College is exploring the possibility of opening a second class to meet growing interest.
You are invited to see our Stage 3 Program in action, meet our staff and students, and learn how St Edmund's College can support your child's transition to high school.
