Junior School
A Strong Start: Beginning in Year 4
The Junior School is more than just the beginning of a formal Marist education – it is the foundation of a nine-year journey shaped by Catholic faith, Marist values, and a commitment to forming compassionate, capable young men.
Starting in Year 4 allows your son to build strong friendships, grow in confidence, and make a seamless transition into secondary school.
A Seamless Journey from Year 4 to Year 12
- Six classes per year level create a vibrant community of learners.
- Student progress is closely tracked from the very beginning, with learning and wellbeing needs continually communicated to families.
- By the time boys enter Senior School in Year 7, they are already familiar with Marist routines, staff, and values, making for a confident transition.
Specialist Learning from the Start
Unlike many primary schools, Marist Junior School boys enjoy lessons with specialist teachers every week:
- Health & Physical Education – 2 lessons
- Library – 2 lessons (linked to classroom learning)
- Japanese – 1 lesson
- Music or Drama – 2 lessons (Semester rotation)
- Year 4 singing lessons and a Music Immersion Program in Year 5
Our Step-Up program also gives boys hands-on experience in Hospitality, practical Science, and Technology, subjects usually reserved for secondary school.
Opportunities Beyond the Classroom
From the very beginning, boys are encouraged to explore their talents and passions through:
- Sport and fitness
- Music and performing arts
- Faith formation and sacramental preparation
- Academic enrichment and co-curricular clubs
- Student leadership opportunities
These experiences help boys discover who they are, take risks, and grow in confidence.
Faith and Formation
Daily prayer, meditation, liturgies, and Religious Education help nurture a personal connection to Catholic tradition, devotion to Mary, respect for women, and a sense of belonging to the global Marist community.
Through Mission Day, service programs, and acts of charity, boys learn empathy and the importance of contributing to a better world.
A Confident Transition to Senior School
Our Year 6 boys are already well connected to the College’s House system, daily routines, and expectations. They benefit from using Senior School facilities and being taught by Senior School staff, making the move into Year 7 smooth and natural.
The Beginning of a Transformative Journey
The Junior School at Marist College Canberra is a place where boys begin to discover who they are, what they believe, and who they are called to become. It is the start of a journey that shapes them not only as learners but as young men of faith, empathy, and gratitude.
Together, We Create Fine Young Men
Since 1968, Marist Canberra has been a part of and had its footprints on the land of the Ngunnawal and Ngambri peoples. As a College, we acknowledge the traditional owners and custodians of the land on which we stand. We pay our respects to them and for their care of the land. May we walk gently and respectfully upon the land. We are, as Marists, an inclusive and welcoming community. We acknowledge that all are created in the image of our loving God and called to live our lives glorifying the Lord. People of all faiths, genders, sexualities, and cultures are therefore welcome and respected equally in the Marist Catholic community.