Welcome to boarding
Boarding is a very special experience – a unique adventure with like-minded girls that unfolds in many different ways. Boarding has always been part of the St Catherine’s experience, and we maintain our longstanding reputation for providing a strongly supportive home away from home.
Our modern, comfortable boarding house caters to 66 boarders in Years 7 to 12, drawing from Sydney, rural Australia and overseas. Our caring staff foster a strong sense of connection and contentment, allowing girls to develop independence, resourcefulness and self-confidence.
A close-knit, happy group
Australian and international boarding students live together in a modern, welcoming house located in the most historic part of the school. This collaborative and supportive environment promotes independence, resourcefulness and self-confidence, and we work hard to ensure every student feels connected and content as they pursue their academic studies and wider interests.
Boarding is central to school life and girls form deep bonds, becoming an extended group of like-minded ‘sisters’ who find support, guidance and friendship in each other. Their collective and positive attitude weaves into the wider school, making for a happy, connected community.
Benefits of boarding
Boarding at St Catherine’s is a special adventure. Our welcoming boarding house is designed to provide all the comforts of home, helping boarders feel grounded as they enjoy everything that school life has to offer.
Boarding at St Catherine’s is a safe environment in which girls feel supported and connected, enabling them to forge deep friendships that last for life. Our experienced team encourages hard work and rigorous effort while promoting balance, self-worth and personal wellbeing.
Whether from overseas, country Australia or just up the road, everyone is supported, allowing them to spend time together and take advantage of our extensive high-quality facilities that foster productive learning and social development.
Boarding facilities
High quality resources
- Comfortable, modern living areas with mostly single rooms and a few twin rooms, all with ample desk space, storage, clever shelving and lighting.
- All seniors (Years 11-12) are guaranteed single room accommodation.
- Each student has privacy for study and rest and girls are encouraged to add a personal touch to their rooms.
- Netflix, smart TVs and wifi in all areas.
- Access to all school facilities including the swimming pool, sports centre, music practice rooms and the gymnasium.
Boarders also have access to the prep centre, a fantastic resource to connect with teaching staff for after school hours assistance, support and mentorship.
All boarders come to the prep centre after dinner at 7pm, with Years 7-9 staying until 8.30pm and Years 10-12 until 9.00pm.
Centrally located
Our local shopping village provides access to a range of facilities such as chemists, doctors, bakery, cafes, hairdresser, gift shops and a post office. It is also central to everything that Sydney and its surrounds have to offer including arts and entertainment, parklands, and of course world-famous beaches.
Bondi Junction — a major transport, shopping and entertainment hub — is only a 10-minute walk from school. And for our international students, the airport is only a 20-minute drive.
Find out more.
To find out more and really get a sense of the boarding environment we highly recommend attending one of our Opening Mornings, held through the school year.
If the dates don’t work for you then we welcome your enquiry to arrange a visit. Our enrolments team would be happy to discuss further and organise a time to suit.
