Frequently Asked Questions

When did the school open?

Lisieux Catholic Primary School opened for the first time in January, 2018, initially catering for students in Years Prep-3. In 2018 students were accommodated in a redeveloped former home on site, The Carmel Centre, while main building works continued on Stage One of the school development. The Carmel Centre now accommodates our 3 Prep classes, while Years 1-6 are accommodated within our contemporary new building. In 2020, the School will commence Stage 2 works with further building and landscaping being undertaken.

What features make the school special?

The opportunity to start a school from scratch provides many benefits. Under the guidance of Principal, Susan Ryan, Lisieux has committed to building a culture that celebrates learning and fosters wellbeing. Our students will be encouraged to identify and pursue academic excellence and to actively partake in sporting endeavours, cultural pursuits and social justice initiatives. Our commitment as educators will be to walk with our students on their learning and faith journey, encouraging students in our care to achieve their full potential. The physical environment of the school is flexible and adaptable, allowing opportunities for collaboration and independent investigation. We incorporate a focus on nature-based investigative learning at Lisieux. Central to our mission is the philosophy of Positive Education, an approach that combines best practice teaching with an explicit focus on wellbeing. It incorporates mindfulness training, fostering an ‘attitude of gratitude’, the identification of character strengths, and the building of positive relationships.

How many students attend the school?

In 2024, the current enrolment is 340 students.

How are the classes grouped?

In 2024, we have the following class groups:

  • Prep x 3 (approximately 17 per class)
  • Year 1 (2 x 25 per class)
  • Year 2 (2 x 25 per class)
  • Year 3 (2 x 25 per class)
  • Year 4 (3 x 17 per class)
  • Year 5/6 (4 x 22 per class)

What is the catchment/zone/boundary for the school?

View our enrolment policy and the enrolment boundaries.

Can I enrol if I am not Catholic?

Lisieux will be open to all families who are supportive of the Catholic mission and traditions of the school.

What is the fee structure at Lisieux?

The parish strives to keep fees to a minimum and no student is denied enrolment in a Catholic school purely on the basis of genuine inability to pay fees. A family fee of $2150 per annum is charged as well as an individual student levy of $500 per annum. This covers all books, stationery, technology and excursion costs. Flexible payment arrangements are available. Additionally, there is an annual camp levy for students in Years 4-6.

What secondary schools will Lisieux student be given priority entry to?

Lisieux is a primary school in the Nazareth parish, which is a priority parish for all Geelong region secondary colleges. Enrolments are subject to each Secondary college’s enrolment process.

What features make Lisieux unique?

First and foremost, Lisieux provides faith education for its students. Faith, hope, love and compassion are key values integrated into all aspects of the school’s philosophy and practice. Lisieux proudly places relationships at the centre of all we do, and strives to celebrate each child’s unique gifts. We draw on the science of positive psychology as a framework for building a culture of best practice teaching and learning. We have a very strong outdoor learning focus as a means for students to construct learning, collaborate socially and explore. Lisieux staff are committed to fostering creativity, and a number of specialist programs and approaches have been developed to promote inquiry, research, creativity and self-directed learning.

How do I know if my child is progressing at school?

We encourage parents to be actively engaged in their child’s learning through attendance at Transition and Wellbeing Conferences (Term One), Learning Conferences (Term Two and Four), our Seesaw Learning Platform (online, real time reporting), Parent Information evenings, and learning expos held throughout the year. At any time, parents are welcome to contact their child’s teacher to discuss learning progress.

Does Lisieux offer before and after school care?

Lisieux has a partnership with The Kelly Club who provide before and after school care from 7am daily until 6pm.

What does Religious Education involve at Lisieux?

Religion has a very important role in the life of a Catholic school and all students study Religious Education. Our school community takes part in activities such as regular daily prayer, mass and liturgies to continually develop our faith.

As a parent or community member, how can I get involved?

At Lisieux, we believe that when schools and families work together, both students and our community will flourish. We actively encourage family and community involvement in the life of our school in many ways including:

  • Daily reading support
  • School Advisory Council membership
  • Parents and Friends Committee
  • Attendance at assemblies and liturgies
  • Mentoring during Genius Hour or The Growth Project

Can I arrange to view the school in action?

At Lisieux we welcome you to see the school in action. Please call Reception on 9089 6614 to arrange a mutually convenient time. Our Principal, Dr Susan Ryan, will be delighted to speak with you and to show you around the learning community.

How do I enrol?

The enrolment application can be downloaded here. To read about the enrolment policy and application process click here.