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Curriculum IB (PYP), IB (MYP), Australian Curriculum
Taught languages German, Italian, Japanese, French, Mandarin
Strengths Sport, Performing Arts, STEM
Clubs Academic and Intellectual, Arts and Creative, Community and Service
Stages Early Years, Primary School, Secondary School, Senior Secondary School
Introduction
Somerset College on the Gold Coast is an independent day school offering the International Baccalaureate across the full range of grades, from Pre-Prep to Year 12. It delivers the Primary Years Programme (PYP) for Pre-Prep to Year 5 and the Middle Years Programme (MYP) for Years 6 to 10. In Senior School, students can follow the Queensland Certificate of Education (QCE) pathway, with 30 General Subjects and potential ATAR outcomes, alongside IB assessment. The school's campus combines specialised facilities for learning, science and design, a 300-seat Suzanne Roberts Performing Arts Centre, a Knowledge and Information Precinct library, a Design Centre for Digital Technologies, and extensive sports venues including an Olympic-sized heated pool and a high-performance fitness centre. Co-curricular activities span robotics, debating, theatre, music and community service. The college emphasises inquiry-based learning, intercultural understanding and leadership through meaningful service, with a strong focus on digital literacy and university preparation globally.
Somerset College - Gold Coast has 1,540 pupils, instruction in English.
Location
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.
Stages
Junior School: Pre-Prep to Year 6; Senior School: Year 7 to Year 12.
Type
Independent day school.
Additional learning support
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.
Country affiliation
Australia
Religious affiliation
Christian
School day structure
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.
Fees
Annual tuition at Somerset College - Gold Coast ranges from AUD 110 to AUD 24,528 for 2026/27.
Tuition and Services Fees (2026 schedule)
- Pre-Prep: Annual Tuition Fee AUD 13,747; Annual Services Fee AUD 445; Inclusive fee per term AUD 3,548; Inclusive fee per annum AUD 14,192; Inclusive fee per annum (with 4% annual-payment discount) AUD 13,624. - Prep to Year 2: Annual Tuition Fee AUD 20,140; Annual Services Fee AUD 1,160; Inclusive fee per term AUD 5,325; Inclusive fee per annum AUD 21,300; Inclusive fee per annum (with 4% discount) AUD 20,448. - Years 3 to 6: Annual Tuition Fee AUD 20,140; Annual Services Fee AUD 1,640; Inclusive fee per term AUD 5,445; Inclusive fee per annum AUD 21,780; Inclusive fee per annum (with 4% discount) AUD 20,909. - Years 7 to 10: Annual Tuition Fee AUD 22,260; Annual Services Fee AUD 2,084; Inclusive fee per term AUD 6,086; Inclusive fee per annum AUD 24,344; Inclusive fee per annum (with 4% discount) AUD 23,370. - Years 11 to 12: Annual Tuition Fee AUD 22,260; Annual Services Fee AUD 2,268; Inclusive fee per term AUD 6,132; Inclusive fee per annum AUD 24,528; Inclusive fee per annum (with 4% discount) AUD 23,547.
Application and Acceptance Charges
- Application Fee: a non-refundable fee of AUD 110 is payable per student at time of application (incl. GST). - Acceptance Fee: a non-refundable, one-off payment of AUD 1,875 is payable on confirmation of enrolment acceptance. This is made up of an Induction Fee of AUD 1,600 and an Alumni Association Life Membership Fee of AUD 275.
Billing schedule and payment terms
- Frequency: Fees are charged per term by default; families may opt to pay Tuition and Services Fees annually. Co‑curricular and optional fees are charged each term regardless of payment option. - Accounts and due dates: Tuition fee accounts are issued quarterly throughout the school year. Fees and charges are payable by Friday of the second week of each term. Term dates listed for 2026 were Term One: 6 February; Term Two: 1 May; Term Three: 24 July; Term Four: 16 October. - Annual-payment discount: A 4% discount applies to the Tuition and Services Fees (after other discounts) when the annual payment is made in full on or before the published annual-payment deadline. - Late payment and overdue accounts: An administration fee of AUD 200 will apply to late payments. If fees remain unpaid and no special arrangements are made, a student may be prevented from commencing a term or may be required to be withdrawn; debt-collection charges and administration fees may apply. Parents must provide a full term's written notice when withdrawing a student or one term's fee will be payable in lieu of notice.
Sibling discount
- Second child: 5% reduction on Tuition Fees. - Third child: 10% reduction on Tuition Fees. - Subsequent children: 30% reduction on Tuition Fees. - First child: full fee as specified above.
Boarding
- Boarding is not provided by this College; boarding fees are not applicable. The College operates as a day school for Pre‑Prep to Year 12.
Other costs and regular additional charges
- Services Fee: the Services Fee (listed above by year level) covers common student services such as subject levies, sport levies, excursions, social events, supplies and camps and is payable by all students at the relevant year level. - Optional fees: individually selected optional activities (for example specific sports, individual music/dance/tennis lessons, social events) are charged as Optional Fees only after parental permission is obtained and may be billed at time of booking or invoiced through the main fee account. Co‑curricular charges are applied each term. - Scholarship Fund contribution: a voluntary, tax‑deductible Scholarship Fund contribution of AUD 100 per term is included on the fee statement. - Uniform and retail: the on‑campus Somerset Retail Uniform Shop sells required uniform items (student shoes must be purchased separately). A second‑hand uniform and textbook service is operated by the Parents' and Friends' Association. The Retail precinct is cashless and uniform purchases are made by card or digital payment; uniform pricing is set by the Retail Shop and varies by item and size. - Textbooks and stationery: stationery is available from the on‑campus shop; official booklists are issued and textbooks are ordered through the approved supplier—textbook costs vary by year level and subject.
Refunds and enrolment departure
- Application Fee and Acceptance Fee are non‑refundable. A full term's written notice must be provided when withdrawing a student before completing Year 12; if notice is not given, one term's fee will be payable in lieu. The College's fee policy allows for consideration of alternative payment arrangements on a case‑by‑case basis but does not waive notice or recovery obligations for unpaid accounts.
Fee payment options and methods
- My Somerset Community portal: families may view statements and make payments via the College's online portal. - BPAY: available (payments from cheque, savings or credit accounts via internet/mobile/phone banking). - Credit cards accepted: VISA, MasterCard, American Express and UnionPay are accepted with no surcharges; Diners Card is not accepted. - In person: payments by EFTPOS, cheque, cash or credit card can be made at the Accounts Office (main reception). The campus retail precinct is cashless for retail purchases. - Bank direct deposit: bank direct deposit is not available as a payment option.
Administrative notes (billing mechanics)
- Tuition fee accounts are issued quarterly; a final Optional billing account is issued in December. Co‑curricular fees are charged each term regardless of the payment option selected. Families who require deferred or alternative payment arrangements must apply in writing; such requests are considered on a case‑by‑case basis. An administration fee applies to overdue accounts and the College may commence recovery action where accounts remain unpaid.
Academics
Somerset College - Gold Coast teaches IB (PYP), IB (MYP), Australian Curriculum.
Curriculum
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.
Exam Results
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.
Higher Education Progression
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.
Gifted and Talented
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.
Wellbeing
Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)
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.
Special Educational Needs (SEN)
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.
English as an Additional Language (EAL)
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.
Mental Wellbeing
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
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.
Admissions
Admissions
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).
Scholarships
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.
FAQs
What age range does Somerset College serve?
Somerset serves students from age 4 in Pre-Prep through to Year 12. The school is an independent co-educational day school in Mudgeeraba on the Gold Coast.
What curriculum does the school follow?
Somerset offers the IB PYP and MYP alongside the Queensland Certificate of Education. The IB framework promotes inquiry-based, internationally minded learning throughout.
What are the academic results?
The Class of 2025 achieved 18 perfect scores across 12 subjects, a median subject score of 88%, and 33 QCE Certificates of Academic Commendation. 60% achieved A in at least three subjects.
What are the tuition fees?
Pre-Prep is AUD 14,192 per year. Years 3-6 are AUD 22,736, and Years 11-12 are AUD 24,528. A 4% discount applies for annual payment. Application fee is AUD 110.
What languages are taught?
Five languages are offered: German (since 1983), Italian, Japanese, French, and Mandarin. As an IB World School, multilingual education is central to the programme.
What learning support is available?
The SDU identifies learning profiles and provides study skills training, exam techniques, and targeted interventions for barriers such as dyslexia and ADHD. Counselling and referrals are also available.
What sporting facilities are available?
Facilities include a floodlit Olympic-size synthetic hockey field, tartan running track, indoor sports stadium, the Craig Bassingthwaighte high-performance sports centre, and courts for multiple sports.
What is the house system?
Five houses: Andrews, Franklin, Laver, Starkey, and Veivers. Students participate in inter-house cultural, academic, and sporting activities throughout the year.
What co-curricular activities are offered?
Over 25 sports with 520 teams, creative writing, debating, drama, public speaking, music ensembles, and the Dare to Lead Year 11 leadership programme.
How do I apply?
Apply at any time with an AUD 110 fee. Intake years are Pre-Prep and Year 7. Non-intake year places are limited. Year 10-11 entry requires Year 9 academic results and references.
Are scholarships available?
The Craig Bassingthwaighte Scholarship covers academic, sports, and performing arts. Alumni Association Scholarships are also offered for Years 7, 9, 10, and 11.
What is the school's history?
Somerset opened on 27 January 1983 with 158 students across Years 1-8 on former dairy farmland. The first Year 12 cohort graduated in 1987, and the school now educates 1,540 students.
