New Students

A place to belong

Here students defy their own expectations because our committed, open-minded and passionate team think differently. We take the time to understand the why and support students to find their unique path. More than a school, our community of students and staff is a judgement-free environment, where we see the person. A place of acceptance where uniqueness is celebrated, students connect with like-minded peers and potential is realised through the belief that one size doesn’t fit all. 

Our Program

Margaret Jurd College Shortland caters for all students of years 9 to 12.

Every student is provided with a personal, tailored education program which covers the Australian Curriculum (NSW Version) and is approved by the NSW Education Standards Authority.

The size of classes is restricted to 12 to 15 students. This small setting allows teachers to dedicate time solely to all students, ensuring their academic, physical and emotional needs are met. Margaret Jurd College places equal focus on supporting remediated needs so that students who may have gaps in their education can meet the minimal required standards.

WHO CAN APPLY

Margaret Jurd College Shortland invites young people who seek to undertake secondary education from years 9 and 10 who are unable to maintain mainstream schooling for reasons that might include mental illness, challenging behaviour or educational disadvantage due to life circumstance.

The majority of our students have a mental health diagnosis, behavioural challenge or Autism and are supported with a holistic and supportive framework designed to help them achieve their personal educational goals.

To help us ensure that we can provide the best possible educational support we ask that all conditions are disclosed upon enrolment or at the time of diagnosis by the student’s Psychiatrist, Psychologist or GP. Prospective students without this documentation will be considered for enrolment and supported through the process of obtaining such evidence.

Fees

One of the important elements of the Margaret Jurd College is to ensure that education is accessible to all students.  

College fees are just $30 per week (excluding holidays). Fees are a contribution toward the following costs:

  • Stationary
  • Sport
  • Excursions
  • Educational resources


N.B Occasionally an opportunity will arise that is not budgeted for. Parents will be asked to pay for this cost if their child wants to participate. The $30 fee can be subsidised in the event of financial hardship. 

Uniform

The College provides uniforms to all students comprising:

  • 3 x College polo shirts
  • 1 x College microfibre jacket


Along with provided College polo, it is a requirement that students wear navy blue or black items of clothing inclusive of;

  • Mid-thigh to knee length shorts
  • Pants inclusive of track-pants, chinos, jeans or dress pants
  • Jumper, cardigan


It is a requirement that students wear closed in shoes.

CASE MANAGEMENT

We understand that starting a new school can be overwhelming and challenging. That’s why all students are individually supported by a team of six people who are part of the Margaret Jurd College Wellbeing Team.

These highly experienced case workers provide emotional care and support as students work through thoughts and feelings about their experience upon entering the new school environment and then continuously throughout the student’s educational journey at Margaret Jurd College.

This includes exploring and implementing behavioural strategies while fine-tuning each until the student feels comfortable in managing these. The team also helps young people set goals and take practical steps toward achieving them. This is about helping students understand the impact their current choices and behaviours have on achieving those goals.

START THE PROCESS

Start the enrolment process by reaching out to the school.