Respect, Responsibility, Belonging, Belief

What is a CaRE School?

A CaRE school is a school devoted to Curriculum and Re-engagement in Education (CaRE).

St Francis’ School, a Catholic CaRE School, is dedicated to supporting secondary-aged students who have faced challenges in accessing or remaining engaged in mainstream education. Our school provides a modified curriculum tailored to the unique needs of our students, who often encounter significant social and educational obstacles.  As a Catholic school, St Francis’ School also integrates faith-based values and teachings into our educational approach. We strive to nurture the spiritual growth of our students, encouraging them to develop a strong moral foundation and a sense of compassion and service to others. Our Catholic identity is reflected in our commitment to creating a supportive and inclusive environment where every student is valued and respected.

Key features of St Francis’ School include:

  • Low student-to-adult ratios to ensure personalised support.
  • Specialised programs to address literacy and numeracy support, helping students build essential academic skills.
  • Support services such as Youth Workers and Social Workers to provide comprehensive pastoral care and address students’ social and emotional needs.
  • Flexible Curriculum: Our curriculum is adapted to be more engaging and relevant to students’ interests and future goals, fostering re-engagement in their education.
  • Focus on Wellbeing: We emphasise the overall wellbeing of our students, including their mental health, emotional stability, and social skills, which are crucial for their development.
  • Skill Development: St Francis’ School offers programs that focus on life skills, vocational training, and practical experiences, preparing students for life beyond school.
  • Community and Belonging: We foster a sense of community and belonging, which is particularly beneficial for students who have felt isolated or marginalised in traditional school settings.