The vision for the school was first proposed by Bishop William Murray in 1978 and brought to life through the dedication of a project team led by Father John Ward of the Dapto Parish.

Today, St Joseph’s Catholic High School is a systemic, co-educational secondary school providing a quality Catholic education for young people across the southern Illawarra. The school draws students from communities including Gerringong, Kiama and Jamberoo in the south, Unanderra and Dapto in the north, Shellharbour, Shell Cove, Flinders and Warilla in the east, and Albion Park, Tullimbar, and Calderwood in the west.

Grounded in Catholic faith and tradition, St Joseph’s continues to build on its strong foundations and rich tradition by educating young men and women to grow academically, socially and spiritually, preparing them to contribute positively to their communities and the wider world.

A Catholic Education

St Joseph’s Catholic High School is a caring and vibrant Catholic community where students are known, valued and supported. Grounded in Gospel values, we work in partnership with families to nurture young people in a safe, respectful and inclusive environment.

Pastoral care and student wellbeing are central to school life. Through strong relationships, clear expectations and targeted support, we help every student feel secure, confident and ready to achieve their personal best.

Our learning programs build motivation, resilience and responsibility, preparing students for academic success, vocational pathways and life beyond school.

As a faith community, we foster holistic growth — spiritual, social, academic and physical — through prayer, liturgy, social justice initiatives, parish partnership and meaningful community events.

Students also enjoy rich opportunities beyond the classroom, including sport, performing arts, leadership and co-curricular programs that build confidence, teamwork and belonging.

These commitments are brought together through The Joey’s Way — our shared approach to learning, wellbeing and positive behaviour that supports students to grow with confidence, purpose and responsibility.

What We Offer

A Safe & Supportive Community

• Strong pastoral care, wellbeing programs and inclusive learning support ensure every student is known, valued and supported.

Catholic Identity

• A faith-filled environment grounded in Gospel values, where students grow in character, compassion and service.

Academic Excellence & Pathways

• Strong HSC outcomes, innovative teaching and diverse pathways including university, VET and vocational education.

Opportunities Beyond the Classroom

• Rich co-curricular, leadership and sporting programs that build confidence, resilience and teamwork.

Modern Facilities & Future-Focused Learning

• Purpose-built spaces and strategic use of technology that prepare students for future study, work and life.

Strong Community Partnership

• A close partnership between home, school and parish that supports each student’s learning and growth.

Major Achievements

St Joseph’s Catholic High School has a strong and growing record of achievement across academic, vocational, cultural, sporting and community domains. These achievements reflect the commitment of our students, staff and families to high expectations, perseverance and service.

Academic Achievement

• Consistently positive Higher School Certificate results, with strong growth across cohorts
• High numbers of students achieving Band 5 and Band 6 results
• Graduates successfully transitioning to university, apprenticeships, traineeships and employment
• Recognition of exceptional academic performance, including Dux awards and HSC All-Rounder achievements
  

Vocational Education and Pathways

• Outstanding outcomes in Vocational Education and Training, including state-level recognition
• Students achieving First in Course and strong results in trade and industry-aligned subjects
• Successful transitions into apprenticeships, traineeships and post-school employment
  

Student Growth and Learning Progress

• Strong student growth in literacy and numeracy as measured through standardised assessments
• Targeted learning support and enrichment programs enabling students to exceed personal learning goals
  

Leadership, Service and Community

• Active student leadership programs with strong representation across year groups
• Significant student involvement in social justice and community outreach initiatives
• Ongoing partnerships with local parishes, community organisations and charities
  

Sport and Cultural Achievement

• Consistent representation at regional and diocesan sporting competitions
• A strong reputation in the performing arts, including annual school musicals
• Student participation and success in STEM, debating, public speaking, music and creative arts programs

These achievements reflect our commitment to developing young people who are confident learners, responsible citizens and active contributors to their communities.