When children enrol at Geelong Baptist College they become part of a community that spans from prep to year 12 and beyond.
The college is like one big “family”, according to primary principal Judy Sobey.
“The secondary students are always mixing with primary students,” she says.
“We do a lot of collaborative activities, whether it’s cooking or excursions.
“When they’re going on excursions it’s like having an older brother or sister with them.”
And having secondary and primary students on the one campus has other benefits for the college.
“It can be quite daunting for adolescents starting in year 7,” Judy says.
“But we have a very seamless transition when children go from primary to secondary school.
Geelong Baptist College promotes self-worth and ensures each child can reach their full potential, whatever that may be.
The college provides academic, creative, artistic and sporting opportunities for each of its 312 students.
“Whilst we’re an independent school – we’re a smaller school,” Judy says.
“So we know our students very well and we value the individuality of each student.
“And our staff and chaplains are always there for the children.“
Many parents find the school’s consistent but compassionate discipline system reassuring, Judy says.
“They know their child is going to be safe.”
The college had a 25 per cent increase in primary students this year.
“We’re on 34 acres, so we have plenty of room for more,” Judy says.
