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Somerset College is located on Somerset Drive, Mudgeeraba, Queensland 4213, Australia. It sits on the Gold Coast in the suburb of Mudgeeraba. The campus comprises a Junior School for Pre-Prep to Year 6 and a Senior School for Year 7 to Year 12, with a campus map available online. School hours are Monday to Friday 8:40am to 3:20pm, and the Administration Office operates 8:00am to 4:00pm.
Junior School: Pre-Prep to Year 6; Senior School: Year 7 to Year 12.
Independent day school.
Supervised Study supports Years 5–12 with structured after-school sessions; independent study for Years 5–9 and specialist Maths/Science tutoring for Years 10–12.
Australia
Christian
School day runs 8:40am–3:20pm (Mon–Fri). The After-School Hub for Pre-Prep to Year 3 operates 3:00pm–6:00pm on school days.
The college does not offer residential accommodation or boarding.
Senior School Years 7–12 wear Formal Uniform. Years 7–9 wear a green jumper; girls wear opaque navy tights; boys wear long trousers with a tie and a long-sleeved white Somerset shirt. Years 10–12 wear a blazer to and from the College; girls wear opaque navy tights; boys wear long trousers with a long-sleeved white shirt. All students wear polished black leather shoes; skate-style shoes are not permitted. On Fridays, students wear the APS Somerset shirt and shorts for sport. Earrings may be worn as one pair in the earlobe.
The on-campus dining options include the College Dining Room, Spartan Lane, The Bird and Bush Café, and Mackenzie Café. Pre-Prep to Year 3 can order morning tea and lunch online; dining uses cashless smartcard payments across locations.
Somerset College uses a House system with five Houses: Andrews House, Franklin House, Laver House, Starkey House, and Veivers House. Students participate in inter-house cultural, academic and sporting events; Heads of House oversee House matters.
Somerset College is owned and operated by Somerset College Limited, ACN 010 343 227. Somerset College Limited is a not-for-profit company limited by guarantee with no shareholders. The Board of Directors, up to 12 members, oversees strategic direction and finances; directors serve on a voluntary basis.
The school is an International Baccalaureate World School offering Primary Years Programme (PYP) for Pre-Prep to Year 5 and Middle Years Programme (MYP) for Years 6 to 10. The Junior School serves Pre-Prep to Year 6, while the Senior School serves Year 7 to Year 12. In Senior School, the Queensland Certificate of Education (QCE) is a pathway option for Year 11 and 12, with 30 General Subjects available and the possibility of an Australian Tertiary Admissions Rank (ATAR). External examinations accompany internal assessments for all General Senior Subjects, and the IB emphasises inquiry-based learning, global outlook, and 21st-century skills, with high university acceptance rates. Technology is integrated to develop digital literacy and critical thinking.
The Class of 2025 achieved strong QCE results with 18 perfect scores across 12 General subjects, two students achieving 100% in four subjects, a median subject score of 88% across 28 General subjects, and 33 QCE Certificates of Academic Commendation. Sixty percent achieved A in at least three subjects, and 95% achieved grades A or B. The 2025 ATAR results show a median ATAR of 94.15, with three students at 99.95, 14% at 99+, 22% at 98+, 46% at 95+, 65% at 90+, and 91% at 80+, based on 93% of Year 12 students who shared or pursued ATAR.
Graduates pursue higher education across Australian and international universities. The IB education at Somerset College is associated with exceptionally high university acceptance rates, reflecting the program's emphasis on preparing students for tertiary study. Notable destinations vary by cohort, with many students continuing to universities in Australia and overseas.
The College offers scholarships including the Craig Bassingthwaighte Scholarship (Academic, Sports, Performing Arts) and the Alumni Association Scholarship for entry into Years 7, 9, 10 and 11 in 2027. Scholarships are awarded at the Headmaster's discretion and apply to tuition fees only, and applicants do not need to sit a Scholarship Examination.
The Wellbeing framework provides a whole-school approach to student wellbeing. The school aims to develop positive, resilient students through a comprehensive pastoral care programme. The pastoral care is delivered via the House system, with House Tutors responsible for student wellbeing within their vertical groups. Heads of House monitor students' social and emotional development and oversee transition and progress. Student leadership and involvement in cultural, academic, and sporting activities support belonging and identity within the College.
Academic Support is central to the College's approach for students with additional learning needs. The SDU identifies learning profiles and provides study skills training, exam technique guidance, and targeted interventions for barriers to learning such as dyslexia and ADHD. The SDU offers counselling and referrals to specialist help as required. The SDU also provides career guidance to support transitions.
Overseas students undergo English language proficiency assessment and English as an Additional Language or Dialect (EALD) support. EALD runs small group or individual programs to develop reading, speaking, listening and writing, with progress tracked across language areas.
Wellbeing is a central component of College life through the Wellbeing framework and pastoral care programme. The College aims to develop positive, resilient students through orientation and ongoing pastoral support. The House system and mentoring support social and emotional development, while student wellbeing committees and leadership opportunities promote connectedness. Counselling and access to wellbeing resources are provided through the SDU.
Safeguarding policies include a Child Protection Policy, Anti-Discrimination Policy, Anti-Bullying Policy, and a Code of Conduct for students and parents. Grievance procedures and whistleblower processes are in place to maintain a safe and respectful learning environment.
Step 1: Intake and initial applications. Intake Year Levels are Pre-Prep and Year 7. Places at Non-Intake Year Levels are limited and filled as they arise. Applications to enrol may be lodged at any time after birth, and early applications increase the likelihood of securing a place.
Step 2: Application details. Completing an online Application for Admission requires payment of the $110.00 non-refundable Application Fee and the provision of a copy of your child's birth certificate and current school reports, if applicable. Lodging an application does not guarantee a position. If your child was born outside of Australia but is now a citizen, a Citizenship Certificate will also be required; for temporary or permanent residents, attach a photocopy of your child's passport and visa.
Step 3: Offers and enrolment. First-round offers are made a year prior to a student commencing at the College, with priority given to siblings of current families. Offers will continue to be made until all vacancies are filled. Admission to Somerset College is conditional upon the College being satisfied as to the capacity of a student to benefit from and be fully engaged in the programmes.
Step 4: Interview and acceptance. Before receiving an offer, students entering Prep and above will be invited to an interview at the College. It is recommended where possible that both parents attend this interview. To accept an offer, complete and return required documentation by the date given in the offer together with payment for Induction Fee - $1,600.00 (non-refundable) and Alumni Life Membership Fee - $275.00 (non-refundable).
Somerset College offers scholarships in academics, sport, performing arts and Alumni Association; Scholarships apply to tuition fees only unless otherwise specified. The Craig Bassingthwaighte, Academic, Sports, Performing Arts and Alumni Association Scholarships are available for entry into Years 7, 9, 10 and 11 in 2027. Recipients are expected to maintain high standards of achievement, actively contribute to College life, and embody the values of integrity, leadership and dedication. Scholarships are awarded at the Headmaster's discretion. Somerset College does not require applicants to sit a Scholarship Examination. Applications for the 2027 Somerset College Scholarships are now closed.
Southport, Gold Coast. QAHS opened in 2008 at Southport, enrolling highly-capable secondary students in Years 10 to 12. QAHS is co-located with Griffith University on the Gold Coast.
Years 10–12
Selective state high school
Monday–Friday; Lesson 1 8:30–9:30, Lesson 2 9:30–10:30, Break 10:30–11:10, Lesson 3 11:10–12:10, Lesson 4 12:10–1:05, Lesson 5 1:05–2:00.
The uniform must be worn correctly in all environments that impact the Academy's reputation, including travel to and from school and when representing QAHS. Uniform items are purchased from the Uniform Shop via the QKR app and collected from Administration.
QAHS has a fully serviced refectory on site for meals. On-site dining facilities provide meals to students during the school day.
QAHS is a government school in Queensland and is part of the Queensland Academies network. It is owned and governed by the Queensland Department of Education.
Year 10 curriculum – preparation for International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IB DP). The objectives are to prepare students for the IB DP in Year 11; expose students to each subject so they can make principled subject selections; provide insight into real-world applications of the subjects; and inspire continued study in these fields. A comprehensive overview of course content and assessment is published on the Academy e-learning site. The Senior IB curriculum follows the Diploma Programme model, with six subject groups surrounding a core; students study these subjects concurrently and may choose an additional subject from Group 3 (humanities) or Group 4 (sciences) instead of Group 6 (arts). The Diploma carries a maximum of 45 points, with up to 3 extra points available via Theory of Knowledge and the Extended Essay, and a minimum of 24 required to be awarded the Diploma. The Diploma Programme comprises six subject groups plus the core.
In 2025 QAHS IB results: mean IB Diploma score 37; mean ATAR equivalent 91; 4 x IB45 top scores, 7 x IB44, 10 x IB43, 11 x IB42, 7 x IB41, 13 x IB40. Equivalence is based on the IB Australasian base conversion. University outcomes show course credits achieved by QAHS students: 288 at Griffith University, 408 at The University of Queensland, and 568 at Queensland University of Technology.
QAHS graduates progress to tertiary study at Griffith University, The University of Queensland and Queensland University of Technology.
QAHS offers opt-in enrichment experiences through the QAHS Enrichment Hub on MyQA, with enrichment across science, languages, arts and competitions; in 2025 there were over 1,200 enrichment engagements; the Languages and Cultural Enrichment portfolio includes Group 2 French, Mandarin and Spanish, and QAHS students participated in language competitions and other enrichment activities.
The QAHS wellbeing framework is based on a Positive Psychology approach that grounds all health and wellbeing initiatives to help staff and students thrive. The Wellbeing Mission Statement commits to the health and wellbeing of the QAHS community, guiding members to develop strengths, positive relationships, resilience and optimistic dispositions so they can bounce forward and live the IB Learner Profile. The QAHS Three Year Plan for Wellbeing aligns the five core elements of wellbeing with PERMA+ across staff, students and the broader community. The environment fosters belonging and supports strategies that help individuals grow personally and socially. This wellbeing focus underpins learning and participation in the IB Diploma program.
English is the language of instruction at QAHS. The language policy recognises multilingualism and provides access for students learning in languages other than English, including options for Language B and a school-supported self-taught language program (SSSTL) to foster multilingual development. Students with an English as an Additional Language (EAL) background receive appropriate second-language support in English, which may include in-class support or withdrawal classes. If a student is less proficient in English than in their mother tongue, appropriate language support is provided to assist language development and academic success. Fluency in English is expected for academic purposes, and the policy supports bilingual approaches to maintain linguistic and cultural diversity.
The Inclusion Policy recognises mental health as a key element of student support and outlines procedures to identify and respond to mental health needs. The Student Services Team, including the Guidance Officer, coordinates identification, planning and delivery of wellbeing supports and may involve external providers when required. On-campus resources include access to a Guidance Officer and, as needed, a School Based Youth Health Nurse (SBYHN) to support student health and wellbeing. The policy emphasizes case-managed support and ongoing monitoring of student wellbeing and coping strategies.
The Complaints Management Policy requires harm or risk of harm to a student to be dealt with under the Student Protection procedure. The Inclusion Policy sets out identification, support and safeguarding processes, with the Guidance Officer and Student Services Team coordinating responses to ensure safety, belonging and rights for all students. On-campus health and wellbeing supports, including the SBYHN, may be involved, and external providers can be engaged when necessary to safeguard students. Staff and parents collaborate to address concerns and protect student welfare in line with Education Queensland guidelines.
1. Entry point and eligibility. The Queensland Academies have a single entry point into the senior years program at the start of Year 10. There are no mid-course entries into the Academy program unless the specified conditions apply. Acceleration requests require evidence of giftedness; if appropriate evidence is provided with the application, applicants may be invited to a pre-admissions interview with the Principal or delegate, the Guidance Officer and the student's parents to evaluate readiness. 2. Acceleration and mid-course entry. Acceleration may be used for entry into Year 10, with appropriate evidence of giftedness provided with the application. Mid-course entry may be considered for students entering Year 10 from another school or in extenuating circumstances, and is assessed by the Principal considering entry point, prior program, availability of places, and suitability against selection criteria. Mid-course entry cannot be sought if the student has previously had an unsuccessful application in that year. 3. Eligibility and application overview. The process focuses on eligibility for enrolment and the Academy's selection criteria as outlined in the Enrolment Eligibility Plan. The Principal may cease processing an application for a future student if it is found that the entitlement to enrolment was obtained through false or misleading statements. 4. Application and information collection. A student can submit one application per year and commits to a particular campus when applying. The application collects contact details, medical history, educational history, accommodation requirements, achievements and aspirations. All information relevant to the assessment must be disclosed at submission, and if information becomes available later, it must be provided to Queensland Academies as soon as possible and prior to acceptance. 5. Documents to prepare. A recent photograph of the applicant, birth certificate or passport, visa evidence for international students, a medical diagnosis letter if applicable, evidence of giftedness, two most recent semester reports, and NAPLAN results for relevant years. Incomplete information will not progress to the interview stage. 6. Year 10 application submission. Year 10 applications are submitted via the dedicated Queensland Academies portal. An offer is not guaranteed and vacancies may not exist; successful enrolment depends on meeting eligibility criteria and achieving a competitive selection outcome. 7. Entrance test. The Entrance Test is a series of tests lasting about three hours and is conducted by Edutest. Tests assess both ability (reasoning and problem solving) and achievement (academic performance). 8. Interview. Applicants invited to interview must bring a sample of academic work that demonstrates their reasoning and communication abilities. A one-page A4 statement of academic journey may be requested to accompany the work sample, and a portfolio is not required. 9. Selection process. The selection assesses demonstrated academic ability, commitment, work ethic, organisation, personal behaviour, and suitability for a rigorous program. The process includes the entrance test, analysis of school reports, and an interview. 10. Final decisions and conduct. The Principal makes all selective-entry enrolment decisions, which are final with no internal appeal and no routine feedback of test results. 11. Re-interview arrangements. If justifiable circumstances exist, a student may be re-interviewed to provide further information or clarity before a final decision is made. 12. Re-applying and inter-academy transfers. Students seeking to re-apply should seek advice from the Queensland Academies Admissions Office before submitting a new application. Transfers between Academies or changes of campus preference prior to commencement require written reasons and are decided by the relevant Principals. 13. Homestay and international arrangements. Queensland Academies facilitate homestay arrangements for international students under stringently enforced standards, including coordination with providers and health and safety checks. Applications for homestay are managed through the Admissions Office, and the Queensland Government requires appropriate oversight of accommodation. 14. Brilliant Futures Gold Coast program. Brilliant Futures Gold Coast offers a preparation enrichment program for students wishing to commence Year 10 at QAHS on the Gold Coast and is limited to QAHS Gold Coast. Year 6 students may apply, and involvement includes engagement with enrichment activities and testing requirements, subject to campus-specific rules and availability.
The school is located at 175 Tallebudgera Creek Road, Tallebudgera, Queensland 4228, Australia.
Early Learning Centre (2.5 to 5 years); Prep to Year 6; Years 7 to 9; Years 10 to 12.
The school is private, co-educational and Christian, affiliated with the Lutheran Church of Australia (Queensland District).
Australia; affiliated with the Lutheran Church of Australia (Queensland District).
Lutheran (Christian).
The school offers four bus routes: Route One (Mermaid Waters, Merrimac, Mudgeeraba, Bonogin, Reedy Creek); Route Two (Varsity Lakes, Robina, Miami, Burleigh Heads); Route Three (Burleigh Heads, Tallebudgera, Palm Beach, Elanora, Currumbin); Route Four (Tugun, Currumbin). RollCall provides real-time tracking and notifications; bus tags cost $20 with a $10 refundable deposit; bookings are via RollCall and students tap on/off with their bus tag.
Boarding not offered.
Uniforms are required for all students, with formal and sport options for each year level; a House Shirt is part of the sport uniform. The Uniform Shop on campus provides in-person and online purchases, with online orders via My School Connect and fittings arranged for new students in January 2026.
Breakfast is provided with Before School Hours Care and afternoon tea is provided with After School Hours Care. Vacation Care runs from 7:00am to 6:00pm. The enrolment form notes medical needs and/or food allergies.
St Andrews Lutheran College is owned and operated by The Lutheran Church of Australia, Queensland District.
Junior School follows the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme (PYP). Secondary School uses the Queensland Certificate of Education (QCE) framework with a Senior Education and Training Career Plan; Year 7 to 9 Course Information Booklet, Year 10 Course Information Booklet, and Year 11 to 12 Course Information Booklet outline the available courses.
Career planning supports tertiary pathways with guidance on QTAC and interstate/overseas applications.
The school addresses social, emotional, physical and cultural needs through inquiry-based learning within the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme. This approach supports holistic development across Junior and Secondary School levels.
Enrollment is open to applicants regardless of disability, with reasonable adjustments considered where required.
The College has an extensive pastoral care program addressing student wellbeing.
A Child Protection Policy and safeguarding measures are in place, with annual reports published.
Step 1: The Application Form and the fee are required to be placed on the waitlist. The school notes that there are significant wait lists in some year levels and encourages early applications. Step 2: A tour of the school must be attended before progressing to the interview stage. The tour helps applicants understand the school environment and programs. Step 3: Interviews for available placements will take place within the twelve months prior to enrolment and are conducted by the Principal or a nominated representative in consultation with the Principal; these representatives are normally the Deputy Principal (Head of Junior School) or Deputy Principal (Head of Secondary School). Step 4: Placement is offered subject to the enrolment policy, priorities and satisfactory interview. Offers will be sent via email. Step 5: Requested documents (including the completed Enrolment Agreement), the confirmation fee and Alumni fee are required prior to the due date outlined in the offer in order to secure the placement. Applications are automatically cancelled if the school is unable to contact applicants.
Scholarships 2027: Scholarships are offered to students with a demonstrated high degree of excellence in their chosen area, combined with a high degree of personal commitment. The school offers limited Scholarships from Year 7 onwards to existing and prospective students. Scholarships are available in Academic Scholarships, General Excellence Scholarships (Leadership, Community Service, Excellence across a number of areas), Performing Arts Scholarships (Dance, Speech and Drama, Music), Creative Arts Scholarships (Media Arts, Visual Art), Sport Scholarships and Indigenous Scholarships. Each scholarship has a non-refundable application fee of $95. A Scholarship will normally be held from Years 7 to 9 or from Years 10 to 12. Year 7 to 9 scholarships will be reviewed at the commencement of Year 9, where students and parents may be asked to attend a scholarship review meeting. A letter outlining an offer of scholarship for Year 10 to 12 will be sent after the scholarship review has been completed. The College reserves the right to terminate the scholarship at any time in the event of gross or continued breaches of expectations, unwarranted decline in academic achievement or application, or persistent failure to support the College in its co-curricular program. Dependent on individual circumstances, a student can be successful in multiple scholarship areas with the scholarships running concurrently. All Scholarships are a remission of the tuition fee component of a student's school fees. The remission amount is determined by the Principal.
Waitlist Form: We are committed to providing quality early learning opportunities at the Early Learning Centre. By submitting an Early Learning Centre application form and placing your child on our waitlist, you are taking the first step in ensuring that they have the best possible start in life.
