Finding the right fit at St Francis Xavier College

Choosing the right secondary school is one of the most significant decisions a family will make. For Annabell, mother of a Year 8 student at St Francis Xavier College, finding a learning environment that could support both her son’s academic journey and his additional needs was essential.

The search began early, when her son was in Year 5. With medical and classroom support needs to consider, Annabell and her family were focused on finding a school where he would feel understood, supported and confident.

After visiting several schools, one experience stood out immediately.

“As soon as we walked into SFX, we knew straight away it was the right fit,” Annabell explains.

Facilities such as the College’s Reset Room, along with a strong network of classroom support assistants, reassured the family that their son would receive the individual attention he needed to flourish. The emphasis on personalised learning and wellbeing gave them confidence that SFX could provide both the structure and flexibility required to support his development.

 
Since enrolling, Annabell has seen remarkable growth in her son — not only academically, but socially and personally.

“The biggest positive impact has been the friendships he’s formed,” she says.

Her son quickly found a sense of belonging, forming close connections with peers — affectionately known as the “H1 gang” — with whom he spends recess and lunch. These relationships have played an important role in building his confidence and independence as he navigates daily school life.

“He’s now confident moving throughout the school, working with different teachers and becoming more independent each day,” Annabell says. “He’s certainly not a little kid anymore — he’s growing up.”

Beyond friendships, Annabelle highlights the College’s commitment to nurturing student passions as a defining strength.

“SFX does a really great job at supporting kids’ interests,” she explains. “There are many extracurricular opportunities, but also within the classroom, teachers are very good at tailoring learning so it aligns with what motivates students.”

For her son, this personalised approach has been transformative.

“When he’s working on something linked to an interest of his, it keeps him engaged and helps him learn. It’s been wonderful to see that.”

Despite being one of the larger Catholic secondary colleges in the ACT, Annabell notes that SFX maintains a strong sense of community.

“It’s a big school, much bigger than when I attended, but it doesn’t feel big,” she says. “As you walk through the car park or into the office, teachers greet you warmly — even those who don’t directly teach our son know him by name. That makes people feel welcome and part of the community.”

For families considering St Francis Xavier College, Annabelle offers simple advice:

“Come and have a look. Visit an open day, see the students learning, and experience the community firsthand. I think you’ll get a very good sense of what the College has to offer.”

Her message reflects a sentiment shared by many families — that while SFX offers the opportunities of a large, well-resourced college, it retains the warmth, care and connection of a close-knit community.

A place where every student is known.
A place where every interest can grow.
A place where young people are supported to become more.