At St Columba’s College, every student embarks on the enriching journey of learning a language from Years 7 to 9, choosing from French, Italian, or Japanese. This study opens doors to new cultures, perspectives, and opportunities beyond the classroom.

Year 7 2026 Transition Hub
This space has been created to support you and your child as you prepare to begin your St Columba’s journey. Here, you will find everything you need to stay informed – from key dates and essential resources to updates that will help ensure a smooth transition into Year 7 in 2026.
The Transition Hub will be regularly updated throughout the year; we encourage you to check back often so you have the latest information and forms at your fingertips.
Beginning Year 7 is a wonderful and exciting time, a mix of anticipation and curiosity.
Welcome
It gives me great pleasure to warmly welcome you to our St Columba’s College community as you and your child prepare for the beginning of her secondary school journey in 2026.
The transition to Year 7 is an exciting and important milestone, filled with the promise of new friendships, learning, and discovery. At St Columba’s, we understand that this time can bring both anticipation and uncertainty. Our team is dedicated to ensuring that each student feels supported from the very beginning, laying the foundations for her to excel academically, socially, and spiritually.
Inspired by our Catholic identity and our commitment to living the Gospel, we aim to nurture every child’s sense of self-worth and boundless potential. Through strong partnerships with families, we work together to support the growth of confident, compassionate, and resilient young women.
Ms Rita Grima
College Principal
Key Dates
| Task | Date(s) | Location(s)/Other |
| Intake Testing | Saturday 14 June 2025 | |
| Parent and Student Information Night – Including Language Exposure | 7:00pm – 8:30pm, Monday 4 August 2025 | |
| Language Selection | Tuesday 5 August – Friday 22 August 2025 | Closed |
| Laptop Purchase and Agreement Form (please refer to handbook below) | Friday 22 August 2025 | Closed |
| College Uniform | September 2025 | Please see details below under Uniform. Please note: at your uniform fitting, your child will be measured for their PE Polo, which can then be pre-ordered through Noone and collected at a later date. The House your child will join, however, is revealed as part of the special experience of Orientation Day, adding to the excitement and sense of belonging as they begin their journey at St Columba’s College. |
| Orientation Day | Monday 8 December 2025 | St Columba’s College MPC |
| Performing Arts Enrolment (Optional) | Term 4 2025 onwards | Please see forms below under Performing Arts |
Links & Forms
Uniform
As official school uniform supplier, Noone Niddrie will be offering new student uniform fitting appointments for St Columba’s College. We use an online booking calendar via our Noone website. The calendar will open in September 2025. Please follow the instructions below to book a fitting time. We highly recommend that you make an appointment so we can provide you with a personalised fitting service. Full uniform will be available for immediate purchase, or you are welcome to use our lay-by service and collect your order prior to the start of Term 1, 2026. You can also come to the shop at any time during open hours and purchase your uniform. You may have to wait if the store is busy.
NOONE – Appointment Information
Please do not leave your uniform purchase until just before school commences in 2026. You may experience long wait times and delays in purchasing your uniform.
Please follow these instructions to book a uniform fitting appointment:
1. Open the booking calendar and click on a date you like. Choose a time and complete the booking information. Name required is student name. Only one appointment per student.
2. Click the BOOK APPOINTMENT button to complete
3. You will be notified of your booking request via email confirmation (check your junk mail)
Our experienced staff fit for growing room. However, if for any reason the student grows significantly over the summer holiday period, we will happily exchange any available are cash, eftpos, visa and mastercard.
Our staff are happy to help if you need assistance so please don’t hesitate to contact us. We look forward to welcoming you into our store at 541 Keilor Rd, Niddrie.
For more information, contact Noone Niddrie on (03) 9379 5037 or email niddrie@noone.com.au.
St Columba’s College – Uniform Policy and Expectations
St Columba’s Secondhand Book and Uniform Buy/Swap/Sell Facebook Group
Members of the group are able to buy/swap/sell school books and uniforms. Members can also seek out items that they ‘Want to Buy’. Copies of the current year level book lists and uniform requirements can be found in the “Files” section of the group. You must answer the questions before access to the group can be granted. If you have any questions, please contact Tracey (vinstra@bigpond.net.au). Please Note: Students are not permitted to join this group.
Please note: at your uniform fitting, your child will be measured for their PE Polo, which can then be pre-ordered through Noone and collected at a later date. The House your child will join, however, is revealed as part of the special experience of Orientation Day, adding to the excitement and sense of belonging as they begin their journey at St Columba’s College.
Book List
The link to the 2026 Book List PDF can be found below:
Performing Arts - Music, Speech & Drama
The Performing Arts at St Columba’s College are a vibrant expression of creativity, confidence, and community. Students are encouraged to explore their talents through music, drama, and dance, with opportunities ranging from classroom learning to co-curricular ensembles, productions, and performances.
Co-Curricular Music & Drama Program Booklet (2026)
Private Music, Speech & Drama Enrolment Form
Instrument Hire Agreement Form
Direct Debit Service Hire Agreement Form
Performing Arts - Private Dance
Dance holds a proud and longstanding place at St Columba’s College, with both curriculum and private dance classes first introduced in 1984 under the vision of Miss Linda Henderson. Over the decades, the College has built a reputation for excellence in dance, with students frequently invited to perform at prestigious event throughout the country. Our dancers have enjoyed opportunities to work alongside renowned professionals such as Caroline O’Connor, Marcia Hines, Kelly Abbey, and Lisa McCune. The College’s history in the Rock Eisteddfod is legendary, boasting seven State Final wins and a record five National Titles. Today, the Private Dance Program, delivered by Linda Henderson Dance (LHD), continues to nurture talent and passion, culminating in the much-anticipated Annual Cabaret and a variety of performances throughout the year.
Sports
Laptop Program
The focus of the 1:1 Laptop Program at St Columba’s College is to prepare students for their future in a globally-connected society. The program gives students the tools to have instant access to the world of information, but more importantly, to become producers rather than just consumers of information that is available through the use of technology. The College has established an atmosphere that provides students with immediate access to online and local network resources which are essential to survive in the 21st Century.
House System Structure
The House System Structure at St Columba’s is at the heart of our community spirit and pastoral care. Every student belongs to one of our Houses, creating a sense of identity, camaraderie, and healthy competition that extends beyond the classroom. Through the House system, students build lasting friendships across year levels, develop leadership skills, and contribute to a culture of support and belonging.
College Handbook
The College Handbook is an essential guide for every student and family. It outlines the expectations, policies, and opportunities that shape life at St Columba’s, helping students navigate their learning journey with confidence. By familiarising yourself with the Handbook, you’ll gain a clear understanding of our shared values, daily routines, and the many ways to engage fully in College life. It is a resource designed to support success, foster responsibility, and strengthen the partnership between home and school.
Language Selection
Year 7 PIN Presentation
Year 7 PIN Presentation as presented on Monday 4 August 2025
Policies and Procedures
Parent Engagement Committee (PEC)
Parent Engagement Committee (PEC)
Are you passionate about building community, creating memorable experiences, and helping shape the journey of our students and families? We’d love to welcome you to the Parent Engagement Committee at St Columba’s College. Whether you’re full of fresh ideas or simply keen to connect with others, the committee is a great way to get involved, meet fellow parents, and contribute to the vibrant life of our College. No experience needed — just your enthusiasm and a willingness to be part of something meaningful.
Email parents@columba.vic.edu.au or visit columba.vic.edu.au/parent-engagement-committee/ for more information.
2026 Year 7 Parents Welcome Night
We warmly invite new 2026 families to attend a relaxed gathering, hosted by the Parent Engagement Committee, to meet fellow families, learn about the College, and share in the spirit of St Columba’s.
Details:
- Friday 14 November 2025 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM
- Gayip-biik – St Columba’s College, 2 Leslie Road, Essendon VIC 3040
- Tickets for this event are $10 each
- Each guest will receive 5 x complimentary raffle tickets
RSVP via this link by 7 November 2025.
Please note, this is an adults-only event, so be sure to mark your calendar – we look forward to welcoming you.
Tips for Transition
TAC’s Safe Migration Project initiative helps parents, carers, and students establish safe travel habits right from the start of secondary school. Here are some helpful resources:
Transition Strategies from Be You
A positive start to secondary school can have long-lasting benefits. Young people who experience a positive transition into their new school are more likely to:
- feel comfortable, relaxed and valued
- feel excited and motivated to learn
- have good relationships with others
- develop a sense of belonging within the school community.
This positive start can make a big difference to young people’s school engagement, learning and wellbeing.
Read more via the link: Be You Fact Sheet
A SEAMLESS TRANSITION JOURNEY
At St Columba’s College, we understand the range of emotions that come with starting secondary school, and we are committed to ensuring that each student’s transition is smooth, welcoming, and filled with support.
Our focus is on building strong relationships, fostering a sense of belonging, and equipping each student with the skills she needs to navigate this important new chapter. Through a series of carefully planned activities and opportunities, we ensure that every student becomes familiar with our College grounds, meets new friends, and feels prepared to embrace all the opportunities that await her at the College.
We know that partnership with families is essential, and we will continue to keep you informed and connected as your daughter prepares to join our community.
Mr Alistair Bloom
Transition Coordinator
