Primary students exploring a robot together in the JPC library
Primary School Preparation Program

Primary School Preparation for International Students

Ages 8–12  •  English Foundation  •  Direct Pathway to Years 3–6

International primary students at John Paul College, Brisbane
A Confident Beginning

Why Start with Primary School Preparation?

The Primary School Preparation Program at John Paul College helps international students aged 8–12 build English and academic confidence before starting Australian primary school (Years 3–6) in Brisbane, Australia.

For over 30 years, we have welcomed international students and supported them to achieve academic excellence, confidence and global success in a safe, nurturing and faith-filled environment.

Build English Confidence

Develop speaking, listening, reading and writing skills.

Learn the Australian Classroom Style

Prepare for inquiry-based learning and active participation.

Build Friendships Early

Become part of the JPC community before entering Primary School.

Personalised Support

Small classes and specialist teachers who care.

A Clear, Supported Journey

The JPC Primary Pathway

Every step is guided — from arrival in Australia to a confident future.

Primary Entry
Optional

Primary School Preparation Program

  • English Foundation
  • Academic Readiness
  • Pastoral Support

Primary School (Years 1–6)

  • Confidence Building
  • Language Development
  • Holistic Education

Secondary School (Years 7–12)

  • ATAR Pathway
  • Leadership
  • University Preparation

University & Global Careers

  • Australian Universities
  • Global Opportunities
  • Lifelong Success
A Balanced Curriculum

What Students Learn

Strong foundations across academics, technology and wellbeing.

English Language Development

  • Speaking
  • Listening
  • Reading
  • Writing

Mathematics

  • Problem Solving
  • Numeracy
  • Logical Thinking

Digital Skills

  • Microsoft Office
  • Online Learning
  • Technology Confidence

Health & Wellbeing

  • Physical Education
  • Social Skills
  • Confidence Building
For Parents

What Else You Should Know

Designed for Young Learners

Specialist English Teachers

Small Class Sizes

Individual Learning Support

Academic Progress Monitoring

Pastoral Care & Wellbeing

Parent Communication

Entry Requirements

Academic Requirements

Passed core subjects during previous two years of study.

English Requirements

A1–A2 Level (Beginner to Elementary). Assessment available during application.

Interview

Online student interview and review as part of the application process.

Pathway into JPC Primary School

Direct progression pathway to Years 3–6 subject to academic performance and readiness assessment.

Year3
Year4
Year5
Year6

Supported by JPC Primary School staff every step of the way.

International student in a John Paul College primary classroom
A Real School Experience from Day One

JPC Primary Students

From their very first day, JPC Primary students are treated exactly like any other student in the school — same uniform, same classrooms, same friendships.

Wear the
JPC Uniform

Join School
Activities

Participate in
Sports & Music

Experience
Australian School Life

Learn Alongside
International Students

Purpose-Built Primary Facilities

Where Will My Child Learn?

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

What English level is required?

We welcome students from A1–A2 level (beginner to elementary). Your child's English will be assessed as part of the application, and our Primary School Preparation Program is designed specifically to build confidence and fluency before they move into mainstream Primary classes.

Can my child start in Primary School?

Yes. Students who meet the academic and English requirements can progress directly into JPC Primary School (Years 3–6). Most international students begin with our Primary School Preparation Program first, so the transition feels natural rather than overwhelming.

How much support will my child receive?

A great deal. Classes are small, and specialist English teachers give each child individual support. Our team watches your child's progress closely and provides pastoral care (looking after their wellbeing) every day, so no child is left behind.

How will my child settle in and make friends?

From their first day, your child wears the JPC uniform, joins the same classrooms and takes part in sports, music and activities alongside Australian and international students. This helps them build friendships early and feel part of the JPC community before they move into mainstream Primary classes.

Is Brisbane safe for international students?

Brisbane is consistently ranked among the safest and most liveable cities in the world. JPC's campus in Daisy Hill provides a secure, supervised environment, and our international team maintains close contact with every family throughout their child's time with us.

How will you keep me updated on my child's progress?

We monitor your child's academic progress throughout the program and keep in regular contact with you. Our international team communicates with every family, so you always know how your child is learning, settling in and growing in confidence.

Personal Support

Meet Our Team

Our experienced team is here to support you and your child every step of the way.

Josephine Zhong

Josephine Zhong

International Admission Coordinator

Avery Wang

Avery Wang

International Student Welfare & Liaison Officer

Contact Us

Ready to Plan Your Future?

Our team is here to help you choose the right pathway to achieve your dreams.