School of Excellence

Acorn Academic Academy

The Acorn Academic Academy is an accelerated learning program designed to extend and inspire high-achieving students. Commencing in 2026 for students in Year 7-9, this program will provide a faster pace of learning, deeper exploration of the curriculum, and enriched learning opportunities – all supported by strong pastoral care.

The Acorn Academic Academy is named to symbolise the idea that, like an acorn growing into a strong oak tree, our students’ talents, curiosity, and potential will flourish through challenge, support, and opportunities to excel.

This program has been designed for students who demonstrate high academic potential, a strong work ethic, and a passion for learning. The Acorn Academy classes will follow the Victorian Curriculum but at an increased pace, providing opportunities for deeper exploration, higher-order thinking, and enrichment activities. Students will be supported both academically and pastorally to ensure that they thrive in this challenging learning environment.

Application Process

Successful applicants for the Acorn Academy Class will be selected based on multiple measures, including academic results, teacher recommendations, diagnostic assessments, and an interview. This process ensures that students are placed in the learning environment that best supports their needs and aspirations.

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Key Dates for 2025/2026 Intake

• Monday 25 August 2025: Applications open
• Monday 8 September 2025: Applications close
• October 2025: Student diagnostic assessments and interviews conducted with short-listed applicants
• Late October 2025: Offers made and learning agreements signed.
• November 2025:  Parent information session

• Term 1 2026: Program begins.

   

How to Apply

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1. Complete the Application Form (applications open online on 25 August, 2025) 

2. Complete/Provide scheduled assessment 

3. Student attends an interview.

4. If offered a place, sign the learning agreement before Term 1 starts.​​​

For more information please visit our website.

Student Recognition Colours Program 

At St Joseph’s College, we believe in celebrating the many ways our students contribute to and enrich our school community. Through affirmation and recognition, we encourage all students to get involved, grow their skills, and make the most of every opportunity the College has to offer.

Our new student recognition Colours Program is designed to acknowledge and reward student growth, effort and engagement across all aspects of College life, including:

• Academic Endeavour and Success
• Leadership
• Service and Community
• Co-Curricular Activities
• College Representation
• Ambassadorship

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How it Works

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Students can earn points for their achievements, contributions and participation in activities that align with our College values of Co-Curricular, Academic, Strength and Kindliness.

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Points are accumulated over the entire time a student is at the College, recognising ongoing commitment and sustained contribution. Significant point milestones are celebrated through our Colours Badges:

• House-Coloured Badge – First benchmark achieved
• Silver Badge – Second benchmark achieved

• Gold Badge – Final benchmark achieved

   

Badges are presented at House Assemblies (House-Coloured) and Campus or Whole School Assemblies (Silver and Gold) to acknowledge and celebrate student achievements.

Students and their parents/carers will be notified via Compass each time a student is awarded points. 

Some students will have already received points and we congratulate them on their efforts.

For more information please visit our website.

2026 Arts & Sports Academy Applications 

We're excited to announce that applications are now open for our Arts Academy and Sports Academy programs in 2026!

Students who will be in Years 8 - 12 in 2026 are invited to apply:

•  Years 8 - 10: Apply to join the Academy classes as part of your academic timetable.
•  Years 11 & 12: Apply as non-academic members, with access to exclusive academy workshops, experiences, mentoring, goal setting and career planning opportunities.

To apply, visit our website where you’ll find full selection criteria, student agreements and application links:

 Arts Academy → www.sje.vic.edu.au/arts-academy

 Sports Academy → www.sje.vic.edu.au/sports-academy

 Application Closing Deadlines:

• Years 9 & 10: 15 August 2025
• Year 8: 5 September 2025
• Years 11 & 12: 12 September 2025

** Please note: Current Academy students do not need to re-apply but will take part in an end-of-year review process.

Don’t miss your chance to be part of something inspiring in 2026!