Parramatta Marist High School, Westmead
Choosing a school is a big moment. Right up there with choosing a pram, a first pet or agreeing to sign your child up for weekend sport for the next decade.
It’s completely normal to feel overwhelmed, but take a breath. This guide is here to make the process feel lighter, clearer and a lot less daunting, so you can feel confident you’re asking the right questions and find a school that truly fits your child for any grade.
Step 1: Source reputable information
The internet has opinions, lots of them. It can be easy to get lost in the scroll, so start with people you trust. Chat to friends, family and other parents about their experiences. Then jump onto school websites and social media to get a feel for their values, learning style and community. You’ll quickly start to see what feels like a match.
Step 2: Identify your must-haves
Every family is different, so be clear on what matters most to you. Maybe location and travel time are non-negotiable. Maybe affordability, fees and uniforms matter most. You might also be looking for a school that aligns with your family’s values or faith. Don’t forget to ask about eligibility requirements or waiting lists - schools are always happy to help.
Step 3: Look beyond the classroom
The best schools don’t just teach, they nurture. Alongside academic learning, look for schools that support wellbeing, character and confidence. Consider extracurricular activities, how schools approach wellbeing and safety and how schools communicate with families. A strong school culture makes all the difference.
Step 4: Consider your child’s abilities and interests
Your child’s interests, abilities and needs should be at the heart of your decision. Think about how your child learns best and whether they have any additional learning, language or physical needs. Consider their interests too! Whether that’s sport, languages, science, music or the arts and how the school supports these passions.
St Joseph's Primary School, Kingswood.
Step 5: Look long-term
It’s worth imagining your child five or ten years down the track. Does the school offer the opportunities, resources and experienced staff to support their growth over time? Looking at alumni stories, student achievements and the school’s track record can give you insight into the kind of young people the school helps shape.
Step 6: Attend an Open Day or plan a school visit
Nothing beats seeing a school in action, and attending an Open Day is one of the best ways to experience what makes a school unique. Explore learning spaces, meet students, teachers and school leaders and gain a sense of the school’s culture and community. It’s also a valuable chance to ask questions about learning and wellbeing support, co-curricular opportunities and how success is nurtured and celebrated beyond academic results.
Most importantly, trust your instincts. When a school feels right for your child and your family, you’ll know.
Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese (CSPD) offers 80 primary and secondary schools across Western Sydney and the Blue Mountains. With high-quality learning programs, state-of-the-art facilities, a wide range of extracurricular opportunities and a strong focus on wellbeing and belonging, CSPD schools empower every child to thrive and strive for greatness.
Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese
www.parra.catholic.edu.au
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09 Feb 2026
From Facebook
On Friday, we came together as a College community for our High Achievers Assembly, proudly recognising the outstanding achievements of our HSC Class of 2025. It was a special opportunity to celebrate not only exceptional results, but also the dedication, perseverance and growth shown by our students throughout their senior years. Our College Dux, Lachlan Steadman, captured the spirit of the occasion beautifully in his address, reminding students that success is built through both support and effort: “Everybody I spent time with here at St Columba's wanted me to succeed. Without the support of my teachers, friends and family, I wouldn't have been able to achieve anything that I did. Anything you dream about here, you can do. It's the people that you surround yourself with that will get you there. Even with this support network, I had to be prepared to put in the effort to get it done. The reward for pushing through the struggle is worth the effort you put in to get there.” College Principal Mr Phillip Scollard also reflected on the collective nature of success, saying: “We are extremely proud of all of our high achievers. Their ability to identify and use their gifts to reach their potential is a true inspiration. As Lachlan Steadman, our Dux, pointed out when he spoke to the College community, it is a team effort - all students working together, supported by and supporting one another, with outstanding staff and caring families helping each of our students to do their very best.” Congratulations to all of our high achievers - we are incredibly proud of you and the example you set for our College community.
07 Feb 2026
From Facebook
Have you seen it yet? Keep an eye out next time you’re travelling along the Great Western Highway between Blaxland and Warrimoo - our brand new St Columba’s Catholic College billboard is officially up! Featuring Luciana and Rohan, the billboard invites our wider community to reflect with the question: “What is your dream?” If you’ve spotted it, let us know in the comments and if you haven’t yet… you might just see it on your next drive! #WhatIsYourDream? Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese
Latest News More news
10 Feb 2026
Choosing a School: A Guide for Parents
Choosing a school is a big moment. Right up there with choosing a pram, a first pet or agreeing to sign your child up for weekend sport for the next decade. It’s completely normal to feel overwhelmed, but take a breath. This guide is here to make the process feel lighter, clearer and a lot less daunting, so you can feel confident you’re asking the right questions and find a school that truly fits your child for any grade.
09 Feb 2026
From Facebook
On Friday, we came together as a College community for our High Achievers Assembly, proudly recognising the outstanding achievements of our HSC Class of 2025. It was a special opportunity to celebrate not only exceptional results, but also the dedication, perseverance and growth shown by our students throughout their senior years. Our College Dux, Lachlan Steadman, captured the spirit of the occasion beautifully in his address, reminding students that success is built through both support and effort: “Everybody I spent time with here at St Columba's wanted me to succeed. Without the support of my teachers, friends and family, I wouldn't have been able to achieve anything that I did. Anything you dream about here, you can do. It's the people that you surround yourself with that will get you there. Even with this support network, I had to be prepared to put in the effort to get it done. The reward for pushing through the struggle is worth the effort you put in to get there.” College Principal Mr Phillip Scollard also reflected on the collective nature of success, saying: “We are extremely proud of all of our high achievers. Their ability to identify and use their gifts to reach their potential is a true inspiration. As Lachlan Steadman, our Dux, pointed out when he spoke to the College community, it is a team effort - all students working together, supported by and supporting one another, with outstanding staff and caring families helping each of our students to do their very best.” Congratulations to all of our high achievers - we are incredibly proud of you and the example you set for our College community.
07 Feb 2026
From Facebook
Have you seen it yet? Keep an eye out next time you’re travelling along the Great Western Highway between Blaxland and Warrimoo - our brand new St Columba’s Catholic College billboard is officially up! Featuring Luciana and Rohan, the billboard invites our wider community to reflect with the question: “What is your dream?” If you’ve spotted it, let us know in the comments and if you haven’t yet… you might just see it on your next drive! #WhatIsYourDream? Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese
04 Feb 2026
From Facebook
It was fantastic to see Lucas and Abbey smiling out at us from the pages of the Blue Mountains Gazette this morning. These are just two of the 248 new Year 7 students who started at St Columba's Catholic College on Monday - our largest ever cohort, coming from 37 Catholic, State and Independent primary schools, from Colyton to Mt Victoria. Welcome to St Columba's! Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese
31 Jan 2026
From Facebook
Alumni Spotlight | Sebastian Andrews (Class of 2023) We are incredibly proud of our alumni, Sebastian Andrews, our 2023 College Captain, who is now serving as a police officer in Coonamble. Featured recently in the Coonamble Times, Sebastian has been warmly welcomed as the town’s newest constable, already making a positive impression through his commitment, humility and belief in the power of communication and community connection. From his leadership at St Columba’s to his service in regional NSW, Sebastian continues to embody the values of compassion, courage and service to others. We have no doubt he will make a meaningful difference in the lives of those he serves. We would love to know about other St Columba's alumni who are serving in the police force (NSW or other states). Please message us here on Facebook to update us on our alumni in blue.
12 Jan 2026
Is your child starting Year 7 this year? Read our practical tips
Starting Year 7 is an exciting milestone and a big change. Moving from primary to secondary school brings new routines, more classrooms, new friendships and greater independence. With the right preparation, students can begin this next chapter feeling confident, organised and ready to thrive.
31 Dec 2025
From Facebook
A huge congratulations to our 2025 College Dux, Lachlan Steadman, who appeared on the front page of the Blue Mountains Gazette today, 31 December 2025, in recognition of his outstanding HSC achievements. Lachlan’s academic journey is nothing short of remarkable. By accelerating his mathematics studies from an early age, he completed Advanced Mathematics and Extension courses well ahead of schedule, culminating in an exceptional HSC result. His curiosity, discipline and genuine love of learning are a wonderful reflection of the values we strive to nurture at St Columba’s Catholic College. Adding to this celebration is an extraordinary coincidence. Lachlan’s younger sister, Amelia, featured on the front page of the Blue Mountains Gazette on 1 January 2025. From the very first day to the very last day of 2025, the Steadman siblings have quite literally bookended the year on the Gazette’s front page. Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese
24 Dec 2025
From Facebook
As the Christmas season arrives, we are reminded of the joy, hope and goodwill that this time of year brings to our community. We wish our students, families, staff and wider community a blessed and safe Christmas, filled with peace and happiness, and every blessing for the year ahead. “Glory to God in the highest, And peace to His people on earth!” Luke 2:14 Finally, even Santa couldn’t miss a visit to St Columba’s Catholic College this year (we know that secretly, we are his favourites!).
19 Dec 2025
From Facebook
🎓Congratulations to our Dux of the Class of 2025, Lachlan Steadman 🎓 With an outstanding ATAR of 98.4, Lachlan's achievement is the result of his determination and commitment to excellence over many years. Lachlan's HSC journey has been remarkable. He sat his first HSC examination, Advanced Mathematics, when he was in Year 9. He completed Mathematics Extension 1 and Mathematics Extension 2 in Year 11. This year he studied Chemistry, English Advanced, Physics, Science Extension 1, and Studies in Catholic Thought. Next year Lachlan will commence a Bachelor of Mathematical Science at the Australian National University. We wish him every success and happiness as he embarks on this exciting next chapter.
18 Dec 2025
Catholic schools across Western Sydney celebrate HSC success
Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese (CSPD) is celebrating another outstanding year of Higher School Certificate (HSC) results as students from 22 secondary schools receive their results.
18 Dec 2025
From Facebook
Celebrating Our Class of 2025 HSC Results! Today we proudly celebrate the outstanding achievements of our Class of 2025. We are enormously proud of each and every student for their dedication, resilience, and commitment throughout their HSC journey. A heartfelt congratulations to our graduates on this fantastic milestone, and a sincere thank you to our incredible staff whose expertise, care, and tireless support made these achievements possible. Well done to all - we couldn’t be prouder! Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese
10 Dec 2025
From Facebook
Congratulations to Olivia Hanlon who has been recognised by Zonta Club of The Blue Mountains and awarded the Deadly Futures scholarship for Year 12. Well done Liv! And thanks to the wonderful Sandra McMurtrie and all of the Zonta Club who support our women and girls. You can find out more about the work of Zonta by heading over to their Facebook page. Be sure to give them a 'like' and support their work where you can! Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese