Celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2011, Peninsula is an open-entry, co-educational school of distinction that fosters the full and balanced development of each child. Located an hour south of Melbourne on the Mornington Peninsula, the school has an excellent record of academic achievement. They encourage a “have a go” attitude among students and aim to produce students who have an understanding of the world beyond Australia. Peninsula places significant importance on enhancing the wellbeing of its students as well as enabling them to achieve their potential in their academic studies. The School is a foundation member of the Positive Education Schools Association.
Facilities: New Performing Arts Centre, new Junior Gymnasium, Year 7 to 8 Centre, Pre-Senior Centre for Year 9 students, Senior Centre, English Language Centre for boarders, extensive sporting facilities. VCE program offered to students in China. In May 2014, the school opened its state of the art Senior Centre which accommodates Year 11 and 12 students.
Boarding facilities: Boarding is offered to boys and girls from Year 7 upwards. A maximum of 50 boys live in Jaffray House — 33 in the main building and 17 senior students in two separate blocks. The main house has lounge, dining, toilet/shower and laundry facilities. A recreation room adjoins the Year 12 block. Female students live in Heather Reilly House, which was originally the Principal’s residence. An attractive feature of Heather Reilly House is its homely character and attractive garden setting. Most students are accommodated in two-bed rooms. There are eight double rooms, two single rooms and one triple room. Students have a communal lounge and dining area and share bathroom facilities.
Curriculum: The curriculum is well structured and varied and designed to promote a strong work ethic and encourage personal development. The majority of students undertake tertiary education after leaving Peninsula and study for their VCE. Year 11 students have the option of completing a VET subject, usually off-campus.
Sport: Peninsula is a member of the Associated Grammar Schools of Victoria. Middle and Senior School students compete in the winter and summer sports competition. Swimming and athletics seasons also form part of the program. Significant emphasis is placed on team commitment, skill development and sportsmanship. Sports offered at the school include cross-country, snow sports, triathlon, soccer, surf life-saving, sailing, aerobics, volleyball, squash, golf, equestrian and softball, as well as the traditional football, cricket and tennis.
Co-curricular activities: Music and Drama flourish at Peninsula. Students also participate in an activities program that includes a cadet unit and a wide range of interest-based activities, life-skill programs, sporting and hobby pursuits. The outdoor education program is an integral part of the all-round education offered by the school. Camps offer students personal development, leadership, teamwork and environmental challenges.
Student welfare program: Peninsula has a strong pastoral care program that helps students develop a strong sense of connectedness with the school community. It is a world leader in applying the science of positive psychology to the benefit of student wellbeing and academic performance.
Principal: Mr Stuart Johnston