
Context Statement

Xavier College is a multi-campus Catholic co-educational College in the Salesian tradition, educating young people from the Early Years to Year 12 across our northern Adelaide region.
Grounded in the values of Respect, Understanding, Affection and Humour, we are committed to the holistic development of each student and to nurturing a community where learning, faith, and relationships are central.
This Context Statement outlines our identity and ethos, our approach to teaching and learning, and the environment in which our students and staff work and grow. It is intended to provide you with a solid and meaningful understanding of Xavier College today, and the direction in which we are heading as we continue to grow and serve our community with confidence and care.
Mark Flaherty
College Principal
Context Statement
This page is organised into sections that reflect who we are, how we support learning and wellbeing, the environment in which we operate, and our future direction.
Each section offers insights into an important aspect of Xavier College. Together, they provide a well-rounded picture of our community and our work.
If you would like to print this page, please first click the Open All button.
Our story and identity
This section outlines who we are and what shapes our identity. It explores our Catholic and Salesian foundations, our values, and the role we play within our local community.
Acknowledgement of Country
Xavier College acknowledges and respects the traditional custodians of the South Australian regions upon whose ancestral lands our College operates.


We acknowledge and pay our respects to the Elders, past and present, for they hold the memories, the traditions, the culture and the hopes of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
We also pay respect to the cultural authority of Aboriginal people from other areas of South Australia and Australia and acknowledge their deep feelings of attachment and Spiritual relationship to Country.
College details
We are a Catholic co-educational College catering to all students from the Early Years through to Year 12. Xavier College has four campuses north of Adelaide: Evanston Campus, Gawler Belt Campus, Riverlea Park Campus (opening 2027) and Two Wells Campus.
School Name
Xavier College
College Principal
Mr Mark Flaherty
Postal Address
PO Box 1566, Gawler SA 5118
ABN
16 096 753 010
Campuses
Evanston Campus
Reception to Year 6
56 Para Road, Evanston SA 5116
Phone: (08) 8526 9600
General: [email protected]
Gawler Belt Campus
Year 7 to Year 12
1 Kentish Road, Gawler Belt SA 5118
Phone: (08) 8521 4500
General: [email protected]
Riverlea Park Campus
Opening 2027 for Early Year to Year 6, growing to Year 12
Riverlea Boulevard, Riverlea Park SA 5120
Phone: (08) 8521 4500
General: [email protected]
Two Wells Campus
Early Years to Year 11, growing to Year 12 in 2027
1 Benjamin Franklin Boulevard, Two Wells SA 5501
Phone: (08) 8520 4100
General: [email protected]
Mission and vision


Mission Statement
To be a high-quality Catholic school in the Salesian tradition.
Vision Statement
Xavier College will provide an authentic Catholic learning environment that is animated by Salesian educational practices in relation to the holistic development of young people. The expectation is that all members of the College community will be transformed by their experiences into fuller, richer, deeper human beings. They will be inspired to achieve their personal best and to accept the responsibility to make a difference in the world.
Identity


The crest of the College is the cornerstone of our visual identity. The ‘X’ and the ‘C’ stand for Xavier College, however, could also be seen as the two Greek letters used in the earliest days of the Church to indicate the name of Jesus.
The Rust colour represents the earth, the Gold represents the sun and the Green, the new growth evident after the gift of rain.
The motto for the College, “One in Christ,” expresses our unity as children of the one God, regardless of our background, race or heritage. We are children of God, blessed and gifted by God, and given an opportunity to use these gifts for all people.
Ethos
Xavier College is a Catholic learning community grounded in the life and teachings of Jesus Christ. We recognise that every person is created in the image and likeness of God, and we are committed to forming students who grow in wisdom, faith, and compassionate service. Guided by the Holy Spirit, we seek to empower learners to meet the challenges of an evolving world with courage, integrity and hope.


Our Salesian spirit draws its inspiration from the life and work of St John Bosco, an innovative 19th Century priest educator, who understood that “education is a matter of the heart” and that “young people need not only to be loved but also to know that they are loved.” St John Bosco, also affectionately known as Don Bosco, developed a method of education based on “reason, religion and loving-kindness.”
As a Catholic school in the Salesian tradition, we aspire to be a place where people feel immediately at home, a community that welcomes with warmth, knows each person by name and honours their story. We strive to be a school that genuinely prepares young people for life, forming them to think boldly, act compassionately and grow in wisdom as they discover who they are called to be. At our heart is a community that evangelises, not through grand gestures but through the daily witness of kindness, presence and the joy of the Gospel lived simply and authentically. We seek to enable all in our community to grow in faith, hope and love. We cultivate an environment where friendships flourish and young people delight in being together, for it is in shared laughter, belonging and genuine connection that the spirit of Don Bosco truly comes alive.
Our Catholic and Salesian identity is expressed through a pedagogy shaped by the Gospel of Jesus Christ and nurtured through our core values, RUAH: Respect, Understanding, Affection and Humour. RUAH is also the Hebrew word for the Spirit of God and so these values form the relational heart of our community and shape all that we are and everything that we do.
As a Catholic school, we are committed to forming young people who use their gifts for the good of others, contribute to a more just, peaceful and hope-filled world and bring Christ’s light into their daily lives. Our mission calls us to be both visionary and grounded, honouring the richness of our tradition while shaping innovative learning experiences that enable students to thrive in school, in their communities and in life. Consistent with the principles of Catholic Education South Australia we are committed to enriching our students’ educational experience so that they may become thriving people, capable learners and leaders for the world God desires.
Educating in the Salesian tradition
Xavier College is a Catholic school in the Salesian tradition.


In keeping with the spirit of St John Bosco, whereby “education is largely a matter of the heart” that leads young people to “know that they are loved”, the Salesian school community of today is challenged to be:
A home that welcomes
- Being committed to the care and support of all young people, especially the poor and marginalised
- Cultivating relationships based on genuine affection, openness and acceptance of others
- Fostering a spirit of joy and hope, based on the ‘Good News’ of Jesus Christ
- Encouraging an attitude of optimism and a conviction that life is fundamentally worthwhile.
A parish that evangelises
- Having a strong and vibrant programme of religious education, liturgical celebration and sacramental encounter
- Addressing the spiritual yearnings of young people and adults
- Giving priority to the faith development and formation of staff
- Providing students with significant experiences of faith in action and apostolic involvement.
A school that prepares for life
- Encouraging a passion for life-long learning and a quest for excellence
- Developing a sense of meaning and purpose, which expresses itself in a spirit of service and self-giving
- Proclaiming the challenge of community building, commitment to others and responsible decision-making
- Cultivating resilience, resourcefulness and adaptability as important skills for life.
A playground where friends meet and enjoy themselves
- Being present to each other in an active, engaging and constructive manner, in fidelity to the Salesian Preventive System
- Building positive and inclusive relationships between each other
- Having a rich experience of interaction and sharing, especially between students and staff
- Creating occasions for celebration and festivity.
Faithful to the tradition of St John Bosco, the Salesian school community is constantly challenged to re-interpret and re-enliven his educational vision in every generation and circumstance, according to the requirements of the contemporary situation and the needs of young people, to whom he once said:
“I have only one wish: that you be happy in this world and the next”.
Values
By using RUAH – Respect, Understanding, Affection and Humour – we are helping create the Spirit within Xavier College.
RUAH allows us to give life to the teachings of Jesus in a uniquely Salesian way inspired by St John Bosco. RUAH enables our community to be “One in Christ.” The Hebrew word RUAH refers to the Spirit of God. We strive to allow God’s Spirit to guide our words and actions.
Respect
Do to others as you would like them to do to you.
(Matthew 7:12)
Respect involves acknowledging the dignity of self and others and treating everyone with gentleness and loving-kindness. Mutually respectful relationships build trust, safety and wellbeing. We show respect for the whole of God’s creation, including people, places and things.
We demonstrate respect by being:
- welcoming
- safe
- polite and courteous
- honest and truthful
- active participants
- good listeners
- punctual and appropriately dressed
- people who care for and take pride in our College, our community and our environment.
Understanding
Give me understanding, so that I may know your way and live it with all my heart.
(Psalm 119:34)
Understanding involves recognising, developing and celebrating each other’s abilities, talents and circumstances. We treat ourselves and others with compassion and show empathy to ensure everyone is known, valued and loved. We use the God-given gift of understanding to enhance our ability to learn, nurture healthy relationships, and promote well-being.
We demonstrate understanding by being:
- accepting of all
- inclusive
- grateful
- forgiving
- generous
- thoughtful
- compassionate
- open minded
- self-aware
- curious, reflective, adventurous and collaborative learners.
Affection
Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength … and love your neighbour as yourself.
(Mark 12:30-31)
Affection involves promoting inclusivity and fostering a welcoming community. Affection enables the safe expression of lovingkindness and encourages the establishment of healthy relationships and friendships. Affection extends to embracing life as a gift and living life to the full.
We demonstrate affection by being:
- kind
- encouraging
- supportive
- caring
- inclusive
- collaborative
- passionate learners
- respectful communicators
- emotionally aware
- people who treat others as we like to be treated.
Humour
This is the day the Lord has made. Let us rejoice and be glad.
(Psalm 118:24)
Humour and happiness involve creating a cheerful and optimistic environment where all are able to have fun, laugh appropriately, and experience joy. Genuine happiness enables us to develop inner-peace and resilience. Being hopeful assists in creating a community that rejoices in being “One in Christ.”
We demonstrate humour and happiness by being:
- cheerful
- hopeful
- playful
- positive
- engaged
- peaceful
- courageous
- friendly
- thankful
- persevering
- inclusive
- people who keep things in perspective.
College leadership
Our leadership team is the driving force behind the College’s dedication to holistic student development and the creation of a nurturing environment for every individual.



Mark Flaherty
College Principal
EVANSTON CAMPUS


Rozanna Elmassih
Head of Campus


Tom Lindner
Assistant Head of Campus
Teaching, Learning, and Wellbeing


Kristynn Ross
Assistant Head of Campus
Mission
GAWLER BELT CAMPUS


Adam Lewis
Acting Head of Campus


Robert Polito
Assistant Head of Campus
Student Engagement and Wellbeing


Louise Brussow
Assistant Head of Campus
Teaching and Learning


Gareth Watson
Assistant Head of Campus
Mission
TWO WELLS CAMPUS


Janet Coomber
Head of Campus


Adele Taylor
Assistant Head of Campus
Primary


Molly Pasin
Assistant Head of Campus
Mission – Primary


Nicholas Sharrad
Assistant Head of Campus
Student Engagement and Wellbeing


Deryck Pinchbeck
Assistant Head of Campus
Teaching and Learning


Stephanie Van Rossen
Assistant Head of Campus
Mission – Secondary
CROSS CAMPUS


Liz Polljonker
College Executive Officer


Costas Efthymiou
Cross Campus Curriculum
and Wellbeing Coordinator


Jessica Simons
Head of Digital Learning
Historical context
Xavier College was founded in 1995 in response to a long-held hope of parishioners from Gawler and surrounding communities to establish a regional Catholic secondary school.


The foundation years
This vision was formally realised when Catholic Education South Australia approved the establishment of the College in 1992. In late 1994, Fr Dennis Handley, a priest of the Salesians of St John Bosco, was appointed as the inaugural Principal, entrusted with the task of preparing the College to open for the 1995 school year.
The College commenced at the Gawler Belt site in February 1995 with 83 Year 8 students, five relocatable classrooms, a science laboratory, a temporary information centre, and the first stage of an administration building. From these modest beginnings, Xavier College has grown steadily and purposefully, responding to the educational needs of families across the northern Adelaide region.
Grounded in the Catholic faith, guided by the Salesian tradition
From its foundation, Xavier College has been shaped by the Salesian tradition of education, inspired by the life and work of St John Bosco. The Salesians are a congregation of the Catholic Church with a long history of teaching and youth ministry across the world. Their approach to education emphasises the holistic development of young people within a community grounded in reason, kindness, and strong relationships. At the heart of this tradition is a deep respect for the dignity of each person and a belief that young people grow best when they feel known, valued, and genuinely cared for.
The College is named in honour of St Francis Xavier, Patron of the Archdiocese of Adelaide, reflecting the strong connection between the founding community and the wider Catholic Church. The Salesian spirit also draws on the gentle strength and human approach of St Francis de Sales, whose spirituality underpins the Salesian emphasis on accompaniment, encouragement, and faith in the potential of every young person.
A new phase of growth
In 2019, Xavier College entered a significant new phase of growth with the decision to establish a second campus at Two Wells. The Two Wells Campus opened in February 2021 with 187 students from Reception to Year 7 and continues to grow, with a planned progression to Reception to Year 12 by 2027. This expansion marked an important step in extending access to Catholic education for families in emerging communities.
At the beginning of 2023, the former St Brigid’s Catholic School Evanston was welcomed into the Xavier College community as the Evanston Campus. Educating students from Reception to Year 6, this inclusion strengthened the College’s ability to offer a clear and connected Reception to Year 12 learning pathway across its campuses, supporting continuity of learning, wellbeing, and relationships.
Looking ahead
Looking ahead, Xavier College continues to respond to the needs of a growing region with the establishment of a fourth campus at Riverlea Park, scheduled to open in 2027. As the College expands, its purpose remains consistent. Growth is not about scale, but about ensuring more young people can access a Catholic education that is relational, inclusive, and grounded in the Salesian belief that every child deserves to be known, supported, and encouraged to flourish.
Teaching, learning and wellbeing


This section focuses on teaching and learning at Xavier College and how we support student growth and achievement. It also highlights our commitment to student wellbeing and the professional learning of our staff.
Teaching and learning
Our approach to teaching and learning is informed by high-quality, evidence-based practice, while being grounded in the Salesian tradition, where education is understood as a matter of the heart.
Teachers create purposeful and engaging learning experiences that develop critical and creative thinking, collaboration and independence. Students are encouraged to take increasing responsibility for their learning and to grow as capable, confident learners prepared for life beyond school.
Consistency across campuses is supported through shared frameworks, collaborative practice and ongoing professional learning, ensuring all students experience a high standard of teaching and learning.
Teachers are expected to familiarise themselves with students’ Personalised Plans for Learning (PPLs) and to apply differentiation strategies to ensure that they cater for the learning abilities and needs of all students.
Positions of responsiblity
Fundamentally, there are three roles responsible for Teaching and Learning programs at Xavier College: Subject Team Leaders, Curriculum Leaders and House Directors of Teaching and Learning.
It is an expectation that all members of our teaching staff accept the role of Subject Team Leader (eg Year 9 English Team Leader) for at least one semester during the course of the year. The role of Subject Team Leaders is to oversee the subject line, liaise with staff in their team and delegate roles relating to assessment task design and moderation. Subject Team Leaders seek support from their respective Curriculum Leaders in the first instance.
Curriculum Leaders provide curriculum leadership for their specific learning area and are also responsible for a cross curricular area. Curriculum leaders provide leadership in the following ways:
- Establishment and facilitation of subject learning teams at each year level
- Resources and facilities provision in line with the approved budget
- Teacher support and advice in terms of appropriate pedagogy
- Online Curriculum documentation, management and review
- Management of a specified cross-curricular responsibility
House Directors – Teaching and Learning provide leadership in curriculum and pedagogical change in the College. Each House Director – Teaching and Learning oversees two learning areas and is the line manager for the respective Curriculum Leaders of these areas.
Reception to Year 6
In the early years and primary setting, learning is built on strong foundations of literacy and numeracy within a nurturing, engaging environment. Play-based and inquiry-driven approaches are used to spark curiosity, creativity and a love of learning.
Students develop key skills in communication, collaboration and problem-solving, while being supported to grow in confidence and independence. The classroom teacher plays a central role in knowing each child well and creating a safe and supportive learning environment.
Year 7 to Year 9
The middle years focus on building strong learning habits, deepening understanding and supporting students through a key stage of personal and academic development.
Our core curriculum, including religious educaiton, English, mathematics, science and STEM, health and physical education, and humanities and social sciences, focusses on establishing the academic foundations for students to thrive in the senior years while also allowing students to explore various disciplines to engage their developing personal interests.
In addition to core subjects, students experience a range of specialist subjects through their middle school journey, such as visual arts, drama, design and technology, food technology, Italian, and music, with numerous additional learning experiences available to enrich learning.
Year 10 to Year 12
In the senior years, learning pathways become increasingly personalised. Students are supported to pursue academic and vocational pathways aligned with their strengths, interests and future goals.
The College offers a wide range of SACE subjects and vocational education opportunities, enabling students to prepare for further study, training or employment. A strong focus is placed on independence, critical thinking and preparation for life beyond school.
Religious identity
Faith is central to learning at Xavier College. Through Religious Education and the broader curriculum, students are invited to explore meaning, purpose and their relationship with God, others and the world.
Students engage in prayer, liturgy and service opportunities, developing an understanding of Catholic traditions and values. This supports students to grow as compassionate, reflective and socially responsible individuals.
Inclusive education
Xavier College is committed to creating an inclusive learning environment where every student can access and participate fully in their education.
Teachers respond to the diverse needs of learners through differentiated teaching, flexible approaches and targeted support. Students are supported to learn in ways that recognise their individual strengths, abilities and experiences, including through:
- Personalised Plan for Learning (PPL’s)
- parental involvement
- providing additional teacher support in class
- specialist literacy and numeracy programs
- adjustments to curriculum delivery and assessment for students.
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Students
Xavier College is committed to supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students to feel a strong sense of belonging and success in their education.
Each campus has an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Support Officer, who guides practices and procedures to influence a positive, organised, stimulating, and safe learning environment for our First Nations students. Support Officers work with teachers to implement cross-cultural learning experiences that promote cultural awareness and identify learning pathways for First Nations students.
Students are supported academically, culturally and socially, with a focus on building identity, connection and pride. Opportunities to engage with culture, community and learning pathways are embedded within the College experience, through curriculum design and delivery and alongside strong partnerships with families and support networks.
Wellbeing and pastoral care
Wellbeing at Xavier College is grounded in the Salesian Preventive System, centred on reason, religion and loving kindness.
Our approach is proactive and relational, focused on creating an environment where every student feels cared for, safe, valued and supported. Pastoral care supports the development of the whole person, including emotional wellbeing, resilience, personal responsibility and positive relationships.
Oratory
At Xavier College, pastoral care groups are referred to as Oratory groups. Each Oratory sits within one of four Houses, de Sales, Handley, Mazzarello and Occhiena, and are vertically grouped with students from across year levels.
This structure enables younger students to form relationships with older students and vice versa. The familiarity creates a wider support network for students beyond their classmates and provides older students the opportunity to build leadership skills by mentoring younger students.
Oratory teachers build positive and unique relationships with their students. Oratory groups are a point of stability for many students; teachers aim to create a “home that welcomes” where students know they are cared for.
In Reception to Year 6, Oratory meets weekly for a range of activities including prayer, sport, games and other activities led by Oratory teachers so that students can build a wide range of relationships in the school community.
In Year 7 to Year 12, Oratory meets daily. Oratory is allocated the same amount of time as any curriculum area on our timetable, and each Oratyory teacher prepares for Oratory as they would for a class. The Oratory teacher is the main mentor and support person for students and the first point of contact for families. Activities are broadened in the secondary years to focus on personal development through activities like goal-setting and building positive relationships.
Student leadership
Student leadership is an important part of College life, with opportunities available across Houses, year levels and areas of interest.
Our student leaders are motivators, someone to listen, and help build culture by modelling our College values. As a College we encourage students to make a positive impact on their world and student leadership is an opportunity to proactively create an environment they are proud of.
Each campus has Campus Captains and House Leaders. Some teams or groups that meet regularly have more specialised leaders, such as Music Captain and Pedal Prix Team Captain. Students may also model values through their contribution to focused groups such as the Ecological Group or Environmental Team.
Family and community involvement
Strong partnerships with families are central to student wellbeing and success. Regular communication, learning conversations and engagement opportunities ensure families are active participants in their child’s education.
The College maintains strong connections with our local parishes and the wider community, providing opportunities for students to engage in service, local initiatives and real-world learning experiences. These partnerships strengthen students’ sense of belonging and their understanding of their role within the broader community.
Student profile
The Xaiver College community consists of families from a diverse range of socio-economic circumstances, reflected by the College DMI (Commonwealth and State) of 95. The College had 2,615 students at the August 2025 census (1,122 primary and 1,493 secondary students).
Enrolments
| Year Level | Evanston | Gawler Belt | Two Wells | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mid Year Reception | 40 | 43 | 83 | |
| Reception | 72 | 106 | 178 | |
| Year 1 | 83 | 99 | 182 | |
| Year 2 | 61 | 92 | 153 | |
| Year 3 | 67 | 82 | 149 | |
| Year 4 | 34 | 85 | 119 | |
| Year 5 | 57 | 80 | 137 | |
| Year 6 | 49 | 72 | 121 | |
| Year 7 | 247 | 105 | 352 | |
| Year 8 | 207 | 81 | 288 | |
| Year 9 | 194 | 77 | 271 | |
| Year 10 | 179 | 55 | 234 | |
| Year 11 | 170 | 190 | ||
| Year 12 | 178 | 178 | ||
| Total | 463 | 1,175 | 977 | 2,615 |
The information in the August 2025 census included 158 students who identify as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander.
Using the NCCD Level of Adjustments, Xavier College had 6 students in the Extensive category, 124 students in the Substantial category, 542 students in the Supplementary category and 140 students in the Quality Differentiated Teaching Practices (QDTP) category. A number of other students were also provided with assistance in their learning by the Inclusive Education team or through differentiation strategies within subject classes.
Student attendance
Student attendance data for 2025 is outlined below for each year level across the College.
| Year Level | % Attendance |
|---|---|
| Reception | 89.7% |
| Year 1 | 89.1% |
| Year 2 | 88.4% |
| Year 3 | 88.7% |
| Year 4 | 89.3% |
| Year 5 | 88.1% |
| Year 6 | 87.7% |
| Year 7 | 86.9% |
| Year 8 | 83.8% |
| Year 9 | 82.5% |
| Year 10 | 82.9% |
| Year 11 | 83.4% |
| Year 12 | 87.1% |
| Average | 86.4% |
The College complies with DECD requirements in relation to any concerns about truancy.
Senior secondary outcomes
In 2025, 176 Year 12 students completed the South Australian Certificate of Education (SACE), with the cohort achieving a 100 per cent completion rate.


Of these students, 169 students (96% of the cohort) qualified for an Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR) and of those, 106 (63%) applied to the South Australian Tertiary Admissions Centre for entry into a course at a tertiary institution. Of those who applied, 105 (99.1%) were offered a place in a South Australian tertiary institution.
Jasmine Carroll and Kate Hudson were named joint College Dux for 2025, each achieving an ATAR of 98.95. A total of 28 students achieved an ATAR above 90, reflecting a high level of academic performance across the cohort. Students were also recognised through 21 SACE Merit Awards, acknowledging excellence in individual subjects.
In 2025, a total of 71 students across Year 10 to 12 from our Gawler Belt and Two Wells campuses participated in Vocational Education and Training (VET) certificate courses delivered by various Registered Training Organisations (RTOs), both on side and off-campus. These courses varied in duration, including both one-year and two-year programs.
10 of the students undertook a VET course as part of a School Based Apprenticeship and Traineeship program. 22 students completed a certificate course in 2025, with 14 completing a
Certificate III and 8 completing a Certificate II. Additionally, 25% of students who completed their SACE in 2025 graduated with a dual qualification, achieving both the SACE and a VET qualification.
Staff profile
Xavier College is supported by a diverse and dedicated staff team working across all campuses to provide a high-quality, student-centred learning environment.
Our staff bring a wide range of experience, expertise and professional backgrounds, united by a shared commitment to knowing each student and supporting their learning, wellbeing and development.
The following information provides an overview of the College’s staffing profile. The tables below outline the distribution of staff roles across campuses, including positions of responsiblity (PORs), teachers and education support officers (ESOs), as well as the qualification profile of teaching staff, reflecting the depth and breadth of professional expertise within the College. This is followed by a summary of the College’s business services teams, which support the effective and safe operation of the College.
The data is accurate as at January 2026.
Workforce profile across campuses
| Position | Evanston | Gawler Belt | Riverlea Park | Two Wells | OSHC Services | Total |
| PORs | 9 | 26 | 0 | 26 | 0 | 61 |
| Assistant Principals (Mission) | 1 | 1 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 3 |
| Teachers | 35 | 110 | 0 | 91 | 0 | 236 |
| ESOs (Curriculum In-Class Support) | 19 | 22 | 0 | 28 | 0 | 69 |
| ESOs (Other) | 7 | 62* | 1 | 11 | 58 | 139 |
Education level of teaching staff
All teachers employed at Xavier College hold the Degree equivalent of teaching qualifications. A number also hold higher or additional qualifications.
| Education level | Evanston | Gawler Belt | Two Wells |
| Doctorate | 0 | 1 | 0 |
| Masters (Education) | 5 | 35 | 14 |
| Masters (Other) | 3 | 4 | 2 |
| Bachelor (Education) | 29 | 74 | 67 |
| Bachelor (Other) | 10 | 65 | 61 |
| Graduate Diploma (Education) | 1 | 6 | 2 |
| Graduate Diploma (Other) | 1 | 7 | 0 |
| Graduate Certificate (Education) | 4 | 16 | 7 |
| Graduate Certificate (Other) | 2 | 8 | 2 |
| Diploma (Education) | 2 | 4 | 1 |
| Diploma (Other) | 2 | 4 | 3 |
| Associate Diploma | 54 | 54 | 54 |
Business services
Xavier College’s business services are centrally located at the Gawler Belt Campus and provide coordinated support across all campuses. These teams deliver essential operational functions, including finance, marketing and communications, enrolment, front office support, student services, human resources, payroll, work, health and safety, ICT and audio visual support, canteen and uniform, and property and trade services.
Operating as shared services, these teams ensure consistency, efficiency and compliance across the College, while remaining responsive to the needs of each individual campus. By providing reliable systems, clear processes and timely support, business services play a critical role in the day-to-day operation of the College. This structure enables campus leaders, teachers and education support staff to focus their efforts on teaching, learning, student wellbeing and meaningful engagement with students and families.
Staff professional learning
Xavier College is committed to cultivating a high-performing, engaged and future-focused workforce.
Central to this commitment is a strategic emphasis on professional learning, staff wellbeing and building leadership capability across all campuses. Guided by the Salesian ethos, the College values continuous learning, collaboration and the pursuit of excellence as shared responsibilities that benefit both staff and students.
As Xavier College continues to experience significant growth and increasing enrolment demands, a deliberate investment into developing internal leadership capacity and strengthening middle and senior leadership structures is of high priority. This investment ensures that our leaders are well supported, our workforce is sustainable and our students are provided with the highest standards of educational care and academic excellence.
College commitments
Our leadership culture is grounded in the following principles:
- Values-aligned practice
A shared commitment to the Salesian ethos and to making decisions in the best interests of students. - Collaboration
Building trusting relationships and fostering open, respectful communication across all campuses. - Professional growth
Structured learning pathways, coaching, mentoring, and reflective practice to support ongoing development. - Constructive feedback
Encouraging critical enquiry and refinement of practice, aligned with professional standards and responsibilities as educators of young people. - Staff wellbeing
Promoting sustainable career longevity through proactive wellbeing initiatives and workload support strategies. - Leadership development
Strengthening leadership capability through targeted programs, succession planning, and diverse leadership opportunities. - Honouring staff strengths
Recognising and harnessing the unique skills, interests, and attributes of staff to enrich team performance and student outcomes. - Oratory and pastoral care
Upholding our Salesian tradition of building meaningful relationships that foster belonging, stability, and care for all students.
Teacher workforce development initiatives
Xavier College implements a comprehensive suite of programs to develop and support staff throughout every stage of their career:
- Induction and onboarding
Structured processes that ensure new staff are welcomed, supported and equipped through compliance training, role-specific learning, mentorship, and ongoing check-ins. - Early Career Teacher Mentoring Program (launching 2026)
A structured, Highly Accomplished and Lead Teacher (HALT) supported mentoring model to cultivate high-quality early career teachers. - HALT Initiative
Leveraging our significant cohort of HALT to support mentoring, capacity-building, and excellence in teaching. - Directorship Program
A comprehensive, multi-module leadership development program aligned to APST and AITSL standards, incorporating coaching, workshops, retreats, and professional networks. - Teaching Future Pathways Program
A partnership with Adelaide University providing a 2.5-year pipeline initiative for aspiring educators, particularly targeted towards diversity, career changers, and underrepresented communities. - Staff Formation Program
Tailored opportunities for staff to deepen their engagement with Catholic identity, theology and spirituality, regardless of their starting point in their faith journey. - Salesian Professional Network
A forthcoming national network connecting leaders from interstate and international Salesian Colleges to share expertise, strengthen connection to Don Bosco’s story and foster professional dialogue. - Adelaide University Partnership
A unique arrangement enabling middle leaders to count elements of the Directorship Program toward a Master of Educational Leadership, along with tailored micro-credentials that support personalised leadership pathways.
Environment and resources


This section provides an overview of our campuses, facilities, and resources. It reflects how our pysical environments, planning, and resourcing support learning, safety, and a positive school experience.
Campuses
Xavier College is one College across multiple campuses, each shaped by its own history, community and stage of growth.
Together, the campuses provide a connected educational journey for students and families from Reception to Year 12, while also reflecting the character and needs of the local communities they serve. Each campus has its own story and identity, but all are united by the College’s Catholic and Salesian foundations, its commitment to high-quality teaching and learning, and its focus on ensuring students are known, cared for and supported to thrive.
Each campus is led by a dedicated leadership team, working in partnership with the College Principal and Executive Team to support students, staff and families. This strengthens both local responsiveness and whole-of-College connection.
Evanston






In 2023, St Brigid’s Catholic School became the Evanston Campus of Xavier College. Located within Evanston in the Town of Gawler, the campus provides high-quality Catholic education to students in Reception to Year 6, with a connected pathway to the Gawler Belt Campus.
As St Brigid’s Catholic School, the school has a rich history dating back to 1868 when Mary MacKillop, along with the Josephite Sisters, began providing education locally. This legacy continues to shape a strong sense of tradition, care and community.
Today, Evanston Campus is known for its nurturing and relational approach, where students are supported to grow in confidence, curiosity and belonging through strong partnerships between staff and families. Contemporary learning environments reflect a forward-looking approach to education while honouring the campus’s heritage.
A campus masterplan is guiding future development, ensuring facilities continue to evolve to meet the needs of current and future students.
Facilities
- Samaritan Gymnasium and MacKillop Arts Theatre, lovingly referred to by students as the SAMMAT, featuring two indoor courts and a fully equipped stage.
- Newly built POD classrooms that invite collaborative group work and offer immersive learning spaces.
- The Library, where students will find both an excellent story and support services such as ICT and the College Counsellor.
- The Environmental Centre, teaching future generations the importance of sustainability and caring for our environment.
- Outdoor spaces to stretch legs and imaginations, such as the nature play space, oval, Village Green bordered with fruit trees and an outdoor court.
- The Chapel.
Gawler Belt












The Gawler Belt Campus is the original Xavier College site, established in 1995 as a Year 7 to Year 12 secondary campus just outside the regional town of Gawler. Situated on a beautiful 17-hectare property, it continues to serve as a secondary campus for the College, offering a comprehensive pathway through the middle and senior years.
The campus has developed a strong and established identity, providing a broad range of academic, vocational and co-curricular opportunities. Students are supported to grow in independence, pursue their interests and prepare for life beyond school within a connected and supportive environment.
Today, Gawler Belt Campus combines tradition with ongoing development. A campus masterplan is now underway, guiding the next stage of growth and ensuring facilities and learning environments continue to evolve to meet the needs of students and the wider community.
Facilities
- Art, multi-media and design classrooms.
- Chapel.
- Expansive landscaping including a contemporary Plaza and Indigenous Garden.
- Food Technology Centre including industrial kitchen built to match real-world commercial kitchen environments.
- Physics, chemistry, biology and general science laboratories.
- The Science Learning Centre, the home of our agriculture program, including animal pens, a vineyard, olive orchard and vegetable garden.
- Specialist Music Centre.
- Sporting facilities including an indoor double-court gymnasium, large football oval, soccer pitch, five outdoor courts and a Pedal Prix track.
- The Student Hub, which incorporates all student services, including Inclusive Education, College Counsellors, Indigenous Education, ICT services, Vocational Education and the Library.
- The Colonel George Gawler Auditorium, seating over 300 people.
- The Technology Centre for woodworking, and Trade Training Centre for Metals Engineering, one of the VET courses offered on-site at our Gawler Belt Campus.
Riverlea Park


































As the North continues to develop, so too does the demand for high-quality Catholic education that reflects the diverse and dynamic needs of our community. Xavier College Riverlea Park, which will open its doors at the beginning of 2027, represents a unique opportunity to create a school for the future, one that is deeply rooted as an Archdiocesan college educating in the Salesian tradition and responsive to the evolving cultural landscape of Riverlea Park and the surrounding community.
Xavier College Riverlea Park will initially serve students from Reception to Year 6, progressively expanding to Year 12 in the future. This staged approach allows us to nurture each child’s development from an early age, while ensuring the campus grows in step with our students and the needs of the community.
The Riverlea Park Campus will be a vibrant part of the Xavier College family. The innovative design of the campus will feature state-of-the-art facilities, including:
- STEM Maker Spaces
- Multimedia Studios
- Food Technology Centre with integrated rooftop garden
- Sacred Space
- Aboriginal cultural heritage trail.
An adjoining community and sports facility, including district-level sporting grounds, will support a variety of sporting and extracurricular opportunities for students. An Early Learning Centre will open from the beginning of 2027.
Two Wells












The Two Wells Campus was established in 2021 as part of Xavier College’s response to growth in Adelaide’s northern corridor. Located in the township of Two Wells, the campus began as a Reception to Year 6 setting and has continued to expand, now catering for students through to the secondary years with a planned pathway to Year 12 from 2027.
From its inception, the campus has been designed to grow with its community, supporting families across Two Wells and surrounding areas including Virginia, Angle Vale and Mallala. This growth has shaped a strong sense of identity, grounded in connection, opportunity and care.
Today, Two Wells Campus offers contemporary learning environments and continues to develop in line with its staged masterplan, ensuring facilities and spaces evolve to support a growing student population and a high-quality learning experience. An Early Learning Centre is currently under construction on the campus.
Facilities
- Contemporary and flexible learning spaces for students from Reception through to secondary years
- Breakout Space, including a library and shared areas for collaboration and student connection
- Sensory room supporting student wellbeing and regulation
- Common spaces that foster collaboration and a strong sense of community across year levels
- Indoor double-court gymnasium with spring floor and adjoining outdoor courts
- Dedicated OSHC facility with kitchen and direct access to shared indoor and outdoor spaces
- Fully equipped music suite, including spaces for private instrumental tuition
- Middle and senior school building with specialist learning areas for subjects including science, technology and the arts
- Food technology and canteen facilities supporting student access and hospitality learning
- Outdoor facilities including a soccer pitch, nature play areas, basketball and netball courts, and playground equipment
Technology and digital learning
Xavier College uses technology in a purposeful and consistent way to support high-quality teaching, learning and communication across all campuses.


The College’s approach prioritises reliability, accessibility and age-appropriate use, ensuring technology enhances learning experiences and supports strong classroom practice.
Teaching and learning spaces are supported by reliable digital infrastructure and shared platforms that enable collaboration and consistency across the College. Staff and students operate within a common digital environment that supports lesson delivery, resource sharing and communication with families.
Systems and infrastructure
Key systems and infrastructure include:
- College-wide Wi-Fi and internet access in all classrooms
- Interactive Clevertouch display panels in most learning spaces, with all new classrooms fully equipped
- Microsoft 365, including Outlook, Teams, SharePoint, OneNote and OneDrive, for collaboration, lesson delivery and file storage
- SEQTA as the College learning management system for curriculum, assessment, reporting and communication
- CIVICA as the core system for student administration, enrolments and finance
- Preceda, Shilo and Xplor to support staff management, payroll, HR processes and OSHC operations.
Student devices
Student access to devices and digital tools is structured to align with developmental stages and curriculum requirements. This staged approach supports the gradual development of digital literacy, independence and responsibility as students progress through the College.
Student device access includes:
- iPads in the early years to support foundational and creative learning
- Laptops in primary years, with a planned transition to 1:1 access
- A BYOD program for students in Years 7–12
- Cloud-based tools such as OneNote Class Notebooks to support organisation and continuity of learning.
Responsible technology use
The College maintains a strong focus on safe, responsible and ethical use of technology. Clear expectations, policies and professional learning ensure that digital tools, including emerging technologies, are used in ways that strengthen learning and uphold academic integrity.
This approach is supported by:
- Cyber safety and privacy systems aligned with Catholic Education South Australia requirements
- Academic integrity processes and assessment protocols
- College guidelines for the ethical use of artificial intelligence
- Ongoing staff professional learning.
Immersive and creative technologies
Beyond core classroom use, students engage with a range of technologies that support creativity, problem solving and applied learning across STEM, media and design areas.
These opportunities include:
- Robotics and coding tools introduced progressively across year levels, including Beebots, Ozobots, Edison Robots, Arduino, and Grok Learning Python
- Virtual reality and immersive learning environments, including Meta Quest and dedicated Immersive Space at Two Wells
- Media production, podcasting and content creation tools, including green screen kits, stop motion, podcasting, drones, and motion tracking and analysis
- Design and manufacturing technologies such as 3D printing, laser cutters, and digital modelling.
Through this balanced approach, Xavier College ensures technology supports engaging, contemporary learning while developing students’ digital capability, confidence and readiness for further learning, work and life beyond school.
School Improvement Plan
At Xavier College, we are dedicated to continuous growth and development across all our campuses, ensuring our facilities and infrastructure meet the needs of our thriving school community.
The 2025 and 2026 school years mark a significant period of building and development across Xavier College, with ongoing improvements strengthening learning environments, enhancing safety, and supporting the continued growth of our students and community.
A major highlight has been the completion of our first senior school building at the Two Wells Campus, which welcomed classes at the beginning of Term 4, 2025. The facility features modern learning areas and specialist rooms designed for flexible, collaborative, and innovative teaching and learning. Students settled in quickly and are already benefiting from the contemporary environment created to support their education. The completion of this building marks an important step forward for the campus and reflects the College’s commitment to providing high quality facilities for all learners.
Construction at our Riverlea Park Campus commenced in 2025 and is progressing well, with the ground and first floor slabs completed, walls now standing across these levels, and work advancing steadily on the second-floor slab. The College looks forward to further construction milestones ahead of the campus opening in 2027.
Master planned redevelopments at both Evanston and Gawler Belt continue to move forward. At Gawler Belt, Stage 1 commenced construction in January 2026, delivering new science and STEM facilities for students. Site preparation works at Evanston took place at the end of 2025, with further planning well under way to support the next stages of development, including a new playground.
Futhre upgrades took place across all campuses in 2025. Evanston’s SAMMAT building received improvements to enhance stage performances, while the Gawler Belt gymnasium was updated to support exam conditions. Clevertouch Smartboards were installed College-wide, enriching classroom learning. Refurbishments to classrooms, specialist areas, transportables, and offices continued, along with new gates and fencing at Evanston and Two Wells to improve safety.
Several system upgrades helped create a more convenient and supportive experience for families. BusMinder was launched to improve child safety and communication on buses. Bus services, including new routes, expanded to meet growing demand. Other systems have been implemented, including Box of Books, the Xplore OSHC Portal, and digital enrolments through Enquiry Tracker software.
These improvements have strengthened the College’s learning environments, services, and community experience, ensuring Xavier College continues to grow with purpose and care for all students and families.
School Performance Report
We are pleased to share our annual summary of the College’s academic statistics, financial data and community survey results. We greatly value feedback from our community as it contributes to our growth and enables us to meet the needs of our community members.
Strategic outlook


This section looks to the future of Xavier College. It outlines our strategic direction and priorities as we continue to grow and respond to the needs of our students, families, and community.
Future of the College
The future of Xavier College is shaped by a clear and consistent focus on students and the communities we serve.
As our region continues to grow and develop, so too does our responsibility to ensure that every student is known, cared for and challenged to thrive. The College remains committed to responding to the needs, aspirations and diversity of families across our northern communities, ensuring that each campus reflects and serves its local context while remaining part of one connected College.
Growth across the College is guided by this commitment. Development at our campuses continues to enhance learning environments, expand opportunities and strengthen the overall student experience. This includes the ongoing evolution of the Gawler Belt and Evanston campuses, the continued growth of the Two Wells Campus, and the establishment of the Riverlea Park Campus, opening in 2027. These developments ensure that students have access to high-quality facilities and contemporary learning spaces, while maintaining a strong sense of belonging and connection at each campus.
Alongside physical growth, the College is implementing a range of strategies to strengthen alignment, consistency and care across all campuses. Strengthening our leadership forms part of this approach, reinforcing Xavier College as one College with connected campuses, and the continued delivery of a high-quality Catholic education that has been built and trusted over the past 30 years.
Additional stregies include extended curriculum choices for students, improved systems and infrastructure across campuses, a larger workforce with expanded expertise, strengthened shared services, and ongoing improvements in teaching, learning and wellbeing.
As Xavier College continues to grow with its community, the focus remains clear. Every decision is guided by what best supports students, strengthens connection and enables each young person to flourish within a faith-filled and future-focused learning environment.
Strategic Plan
Xavier College is a dynamic and growing Catholic school in the Salesian tradition. Our Strategic Plan charts our desired development into the future. It is aligned to four key dimensions of school life: Administrative, Community, Educational and Religious.