doris
doris
Find Schools
Events
Saved schools
My account
Parent Guide Parent testimonials Community Transparency Charter About For Schools
Currency
C

Collingwood College

Australia, Melbourne

Save school
Share
Navigate

· Reviewed by · Co-founder & CEO

Independently researched by doris.
Not yet claimed by the school
Claim your profile
The school at a glance
Instructs in English
Fees A$16,000 - 22,000
Ages Not listed
Pupil numbers 800
Type Co-educational
Opened 1882
Bus Service No
Academic offering
Curriculum IB (MYP), Australian Curriculum, Waldorf Steiner Curriculum
Taught languages Mandarin, French
Strengths Performing Arts, Visual and Creative Arts, Outdoor Education
Clubs Arts and Creative, Cultural and Language, Social and Hobbies
Stages Early Years, Primary School, Middle School, Senior Secondary School
Introduction

Collingwood College is a government Prep to Year 12 school in inner-city Melbourne, established in 1882. It serves about 800 students, including up to 80 international students from diverse backgrounds. The college offers the Australian Curriculum, the IB Middle Years Programme for Years 7–9, and a Steiner stream delivering Rudolf Steiner-inspired living and creative learning. Senior Secondary is provided at the Wurun Senior Campus in partnership with Fitzroy High School, with pathways to VCE, VET, VM and VPC. Modern facilities include open, technology-rich classrooms connected by a high-powered wireless network, and new state-of-the-art spaces across campuses. A signature Kitchen Garden Program (SAKG) and a Reggio Emilia-inspired approach enrich inquiry and hands-on learning. The English Language Centre supports EAL students, and an International Student Program welcomes learners from many countries. The school's vision—Diversity, Creativity, Innovation, Relationships, and Achievement—shapes a broad, future-focused program and strong links with the community and families worldwide.

Corner Cromwell Street and McCutcheon Way (Cnr Cromwell St), Collingwood, VIC 3066, Australia

The Essentials

Collingwood College has 800 pupils, instruction in English.

Location
Cnr Cromwell St, Collingwood, VIC 3066. Collingwood College is located in the inner-city suburb of Collingwood, close to Melbourne's CBD. It is the closest school (about 1.5 km) from Melbourne's CBD that accepts international students, with easy access to train, tram and bus services.

Stages
Prep to Year 12 (P-12); Primary and Secondary; Wurun Senior Campus for senior secondary (11-12) in the City of Yarra.

Type
government Prep to Year 12 school

Additional learning support
English Language Centre (ELC) for international students.

Bus service
Nearby public transport options available (train, tram and bus); no dedicated school bus.
Diving Deeper

Boarding Arrangements
Boarding is not offered on-site. International students are supported through secure homestay arrangements.

Food Options
Beaverstail provides lunch orders; primary orders are delivered to classrooms; secondary orders are picked up at the canteen at lunchtime. Recess and additional lunch items can be bought on the day. Green Apron Catering provides wholesome, homemade meals made on site from seasonal ingredients and offers dietary options on request; pre-ordering is encouraged.

Governance and Ownership
The school is a government school.
Fees

Annual tuition at Collingwood College ranges from AUD 16,000 to AUD 22,000 for 2026/27.

Application fees

- Domestic (Australian citizens, permanent residents, eligible visa holders): No application fee is charged by the school for local enrolment.
- International (fee‑paying) applicants: A one‑off application/enrolment administration fee applies under the Victorian International Student Program (standard practice for Victorian government schools). Typical state schedule amounts for 2026 are A$300 for the application.

Tuition and parent contributions (by year group)

Note: Collingwood College operates as a Victorian government day school. Domestic students do not pay compulsory tuition; the school publishes voluntary parent contributions (annual amounts) and user‑pays charges for optional programs. The published 2026 voluntary contribution amounts by year group are:

- Prep (Foundation)
- Curriculum contributions (classroom consumables, materials, ICT access, whole‑school events): AUD 170 per year.
- Other contributions (wellbeing programs, Compass, first aid, grounds): AUD 120 per year.
- Total recommended parental contribution (annual): AUD 290.

- Years 1–2
- Curriculum contributions: AUD 170 per year.
- Other contributions: AUD 120 per year.
- Total recommended parental contribution (annual): AUD 290.

- Years 3–4
- Curriculum contributions: AUD 170 per year.
- Other contributions: AUD 125 per year.
- Total recommended parental contribution (annual): AUD 295.
- The school coordinates a bulk stationery purchase for these year levels and lists a suggested contribution of approximately AUD 47.70 for classroom stationery.

- (Steiner stream and other specialist class) Years 1–9
- The school publishes separate Parent Payments sheets for Steiner classes; Steiner program resource charges are additional to the curriculum/other contributions and vary by Steiner year (these appear as dedicated Steiner program resource line items on the Steiner parent payment documents).

- Years 7–8 (Middle years)
- Curriculum contributions (materials, ICT access, printing, student ID, whole‑school events): AUD 230 per year (this includes a student ID and event levies shown separately on the schedule).
- Other contributions (School Sports Victoria membership, wellbeing, Compass, locker provision): AUD 165 per year.
- Total recommended parental contribution (annual): AUD 395. Instrumental music and other extra‑curricular programs are charged separately (example published instrumental music fees: individual lessons ~AUD 1,620, group lessons ~AUD 1,140 where applicable).

- Years 9–10 (Upper middle years)
- Curriculum contributions: AUD 230 per year.
- Other contributions: AUD 165 per year.
- Total recommended parental contribution (annual): AUD 395. Instrumental music and optional program fees are user‑pays and listed separately.

- Years 11–12 (Wurun Senior Campus — senior secondary partnership)
- Curriculum contributions: AUD 200 per year.
- Other contributions: AUD 80 per year.
- Total recommended parental contribution (annual): AUD 280.
- Optional senior items may include a Year 12 hoodie (example AUD 70) and private instrumental lessons (example AUD 1,580); many senior VET or specialist materials are user‑pays.

Per‑term / per‑instalment presentation

- Domestic voluntary contributions are published as annual amounts. The school offers instalment and payment‑plan arrangements and issues family statements for payment; a mandatory per‑term compulsory tuition for local students is not published because instruction is government‑funded and parent contributions are voluntary. Payment schedules are managed via the school's billing statements and Compass/BPay or direct deposit options.

- International (fee‑paying) tuition is charged under the Victorian Government International Student Program. The standard Victorian government tuition rates for 2026 used for fee‑paying international students are (state standard): Primary (Prep–Year 6) ~ AUD 16,000 per year; Junior secondary (Years 7–10) ~ AUD 19,600 per year; Senior secondary (Years 11–12) ~ AUD 22,000 per year. International tuition invoices for Victorian government schools are normally issued twice per year (installments/semesters); under that billing approach each invoice equals approximately one‑half of the annual tuition.

Billing schedule and payment terms

- International student tuition invoices: normally issued twice per year (semester/biannual billing); payment deadlines and instalment dates follow the school/ISP invoice instructions. Late payment administration or default provisions apply under the department's international arrangements.

- Domestic voluntary contributions and extra‑curricular charges: the school accepts payments and offers payment plans; families receive a family statement that includes a BPay reference and may be asked to use Compass or direct bank deposit. The school accepts payment in person or by phone (cash, cheque, credit card) and can set up payment plans for extra‑curricular items. Where direct deposit is used, the published account details on parent payment documents are: Commonwealth Bank Australia (CBA) BSB 063123 Account Number 10052458 (use your family/Compass code or student name as the payment reference).

Boarding / accommodation

- Collingwood College does not operate an on‑site boarding program. Accommodation for international students is arranged through approved homestay providers (secure homestay arrangements and homestay placement fees are administered under the Victorian international student arrangements). Homestay costs are a separate charge (typical Victoria ranges published for 2026 are in the order of A$370–A$500 per week depending on provider and location).

Other costs and user‑pays items

- Uniform / P.E. attire: P.E. attire can be purchased through the school; the school publishes uniform information and a Uniform & Fees contact arrangement for pricing. Specific uniform item prices are managed through the school's uniform ordering process and vary by item and size.

- Stationery / booklists: the school publishes recommended booklist items and coordinates bulk stationery purchases; example Year 1 and Year 2 booklist contributions are listed at approximately AUD 47.35; Year 3–4 example contribution is approximately AUD 47.70.

- Camps, excursions, instrumental music, special subject materials, and many co‑curricular programs are charged on a user‑pays basis; the school lists example prices for instrumental music lessons (individual and group) and for optional senior items in the instrument/extra‑curricular sections of the parent payment schedules. These charges are invoiced separately when the activity or program is scheduled.

Refunds

- Refund requests are considered on a case‑by‑case basis and are made at the school's discretion. Refund decisions take into account whether a cost has been incurred, Department parent payments guidance, financial‑hardship arrangements and any relevant contractual obligations for international students (e.g., visa‑related refund rules). For international students there are specific visa‑refusal and refund administration provisions under the department's ISP arrangements.

Fee payment options (accepted methods)

- BPay (family statement reference), Compass (parent portal), in person or by phone (cash, cheque, credit card), and direct deposit to the school bank account (Commonwealth Bank Australia BSB 063123 Account Number 10052458). Payment plans for extra‑curricular items and special circumstances are available through the school's accounts receivable / business manager.

Quick practical notes for parents (factual)

- Domestic: No compulsory tuition; budget for the annual voluntary contributions listed above plus user‑pays items (camps, music lessons, excursions, uniforms, devices). The school offers payment plans and fee‑assistance options (CSEF, State Schools Relief, concessions for larger families).

- International fee‑paying applicants: Expect an application administration fee (state standard), annual tuition per the Victorian ISP tuition schedule (primary ~A$16,000; Years 7–10 ~A$19,600; Years 11–12 ~A$22,000 for 2026) invoiced typically twice per year, plus homestay, OSHC and program‑specific costs.
Academics

Collingwood College teaches IB (MYP), Australian Curriculum, Waldorf Steiner Curriculum.

Curriculum
The school teaches from Prep to Year 12. Primary is Prep to Year 6; Middle Years Program (MYP) IB is Year 7 to 9; Senior Secondary (11–12) is at Wurun Senior Campus. Steiner Education is offered, with Steiner teachers delivering a living and creative curriculum based on Rudolf Steiner. Progressive Teaching & Learning Approaches nurture literate, numerate, curious and inspirational young people, and the school is a pioneer of the Stephanie Alexander Kitchen Garden Program (SAKG) and a Reggio Emilia-inspired approach. The school has new state-of-the-art learning spaces as part of redevelopment, expanding senior campus programs and focusing on 21st-century skills. The school's vision and values—Diversity, Creativity, Innovation, Relationships, and Achievement—shape a rich, diverse curriculum.
Wellbeing

Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)
The school implements School Wide Positive Behaviours (SWPBS), Respectful Relationships (RR) and Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) programs across the college to support a safe and supportive learning environment. The wellbeing team supports students and can refer them to external agencies when needed. The school uses a case management approach to student wellbeing. The curriculum integrates personal, social and emotional wellbeing as part of planning under the Victorian Curriculum, with attention to the needs of students with additional or specific needs. Staff are supported to map and develop teaching and learning activities to promote wellbeing and engagement. The college regularly monitors wellbeing and engagement data dashboards to identify issues and trigger timely interventions.

Special Educational Needs (SEN)
Students with special learning needs receive instruction in the general education classroom and participate in extra-curricular activities with the necessary support. The college provides access to internal and external clinicians and education support staff, and offers English as an Additional Language (EAL) and literacy intervention programs. The school also provides an English Language Centre to support eligible international and EAL students.

English as an Additional Language (EAL)
The school provides an English Language Centre to support eligible international and EAL students. English as an Additional Language (EAL) programs and literacy intervention programs are available to learners. Internal and external clinicians and education support staff support EAL students.

Mental Wellbeing
Personal, social and emotional wellbeing is a focus of the curriculum. A wellbeing team, case management approach and access to student support services underpin mental wellbeing. SWPBS, RR and SEL programs are used to foster a safe, inclusive environment and support timely intervention through data monitoring.

Safeguarding
The school is a child safe organisation. Child safety officers are the Principal and Assistant Principals. Policies include Child Safety Reporting and Responding Obligations and Procedures and the Child Safety and Wellbeing Policy. Students are guided by PROTECT posters and reporting channels, and staff follow four critical actions for responding to child abuse and escalating concerns to authorities such as DFFH Child Protection or Victoria Police.
Parent Experience

History
Collingwood College is a government Prep to Year 12 (P-12) school established in 1882. It is located in the inner-city suburb of Collingwood and has a rich history with a culturally diverse community of over 800 students. The college is a warm and welcoming school with a strong commitment to partnerships with parents and the wider community. The school focuses on the academic, social, emotional and physical development of each child.

Community
Swing into Spring is a community event with food, activities, entertainment, and music for the whole family. Twilight Tours 2026 invites families to book Sunday tours of the Prep–Year 12 campus at 3pm. Collingwood College has a culturally diverse student body, including up to 80 international students from Vietnam, Cambodia, China, Thailand, Indonesia, Korea and more.

Parent Teacher Association (PTA)
The school has a School Council that encourages active participation by parents and the community to drive decisions and initiatives that benefit student wellbeing. It establishes the broad direction and vision of the school within the community and participates in developing, monitoring, and endorsing the School Strategic Plan and Annual Implementation Plan. It approves the annual budget and monitors expenditures and policies as required by law or the Department of Education. It raises funds for school-related purposes, ensures funds are used transparently, and reports annually to the school community and the Department of Education and Training. It regulates and facilitates after-hours use of school premises and grounds and makes provisions for preschool programs where applicable.
Facilities

Facilities Overview
Collingwood College has open and spacious classroom facilities, equipped with the latest technology. All buildings connect to a high-powered wireless network enabling state-of-the-art eLearning. The school operates a dedicated Wurun Senior Campus offering well-integrated senior secondary education in the City of Yarra, in partnership with Fitzroy High School. The college is an internationally accredited government school established in 1882 and serves Prep to Year 12 with over 800 students, including up to 80 international students from various countries. New state-of-the-art learning spaces are part of the college's facilities.

Academic Facilities
The classroom facilities are open and spacious, with the latest technology and a high-powered wireless network to support digital learning. A Wurun Senior Campus offers well-integrated senior secondary education in the City of Yarra, built on a decade-long partnership with Fitzroy High School. The Wurun Campus provides tailored partnership opportunities with local businesses, services, and tertiary institutions to benefit students. New state-of-the-art learning spaces reflect Collingwood College's commitment to modern learning environments across campuses.

Extra Curricular Facilities
Camps & Excursions provide outdoor adventures and opportunities to connect with peers and teachers, with yearly camps for each year level. In the Steiner stream, class camps are an important part of the curriculum and closely integrated with classwork. The Instrumental Music program offers a broad range of instrumental and classroom-based experiences with regular performances in assemblies, concerts, and community events. The Bring Your Own Device (BYOD) program supports Years 7–12 with personal devices connected to the school network, under an Acceptable Use Agreement. The canteen, operated by Green Apron Catering, serves nutritious meals made on site, with most food prepared from scratch.
Extra-Curricular Activities

Academic & Intellectual
International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme (MYP) is offered for Year 7 to 9, and Collingwood College is a candidate World IB School pursuing authorization. The MYP framework comprises eight subject groups, including Language and Literature, Language Acquisition, Mathematics, Sciences, Physical and Health Education, Arts, Design, and Individuals and Societies. Senior Secondary for Year 11-12 is provided through the Wurun Senior Campus with pathways including VCE, VET, VM and VPC. The school uses progressive teaching and learning approaches and is a pioneer of the Stephanie Alexander Kitchen Garden Program and a Reggio Emilia-inspired approach.

Arts & Creative
The school runs an Instrumental Music program with tuition across individual and small-group settings, and many students join orchestras or bands with lunchtime rehearsals. Facilities include a dedicated performing arts space with a 275-seat theatre and a dance studio. Visual and performing arts are part of the co-curricular program. Students regularly perform in class, assemblies, concerts, and community events.

Cultural & Language
The school has an International Student Program welcoming students from many countries. The English Language Centre supports eligible international and English as an Additional Language (EAL) students. The International Student Program is described as dynamic and vibrant.

Social & Hobbies
Camps & Excursions provide yearly camps for each year level. In the Steiner stream, class camps are an important part of the curriculum. Environmental and art clubs, debating, and music/performance opportunities are available as part of extra-curricular activities.

Community & Service
School Council is part of Collingwood College's community. The Community section includes News & Events and an iNewsletter to keep families informed. The Calendar is another community communications channel.

Leadership & Professional
Student Leadership is listed as a component of Student Life. Careers & Pathways is included in the Senior School offerings. Senior School provides VCE, VET, VM and VPC pathways.

Lifestyle & Wellbeing
Student Wellbeing is a dedicated focus within Student Life. Camps & Excursions promote outdoor learning and teamwork. The school's vision emphasises well-balanced, strong and creative individuals.
Languages

Language Provision
The school provides an English Language Centre to support international and English as an Additional Language (EAL) students. Integrated programs support all students, including English as an Additional Language (EAL) programs. The English Language Centre (ELC) re-opened in 2022.
Reputation

Accreditations
The school is an internationally accredited government school located in the inner-city suburb of Collingwood, close to the Melbourne CBD.
Admissions

Admissions
Step 1: Expression of Interest and enrolment inquiries. Enrolment is welcomed throughout the year. Due to high demand for places and in accordance with agreements with other local schools, parents are asked to complete an Expression of Interest Form. The college receives many enrolment enquiries from across Melbourne, and tours are encouraged through this process. Step 2: Twilight Tours and campus visits. Twilight Tours are regularly offered so families can view the campus and facilities. The tours showcase green spaces, sports amenities, the performing arts centre, the English Language Centre, and bright, modern classrooms, laboratories, and ICT rooms. In-person visits provide opportunities to meet staff and learn more about learning pathways. Step 3: International Students. The college has an International Student Program with up to 80 international students from Vietnam, Cambodia, China, Thailand, Indonesia, Korea, Germany, France, Malaysia, and others, reflecting the school's diversity.
School Events
The school has not added events
Search for more schools
Search schools in Australia View all schools in Melbourne View all schools in Australia IB curriculum schools in Australia Open days & tours in Melbourne What is the IB curriculum? View all schools Search all schools