Tenison Woods College (CRICOS provider code 01751G) is a private CRICOS-registered provider offering 3 active courses to international students. Located in Mount Gambier, South Australia, the college delivers primary and secondary education programs, including Senior Secondary Certificate of Education, Primary School Studies, and Junior Secondary Studies. As a private institution, Tenison Woods College provides a focused educational environment with a capacity of 20 international students. All courses are registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS), ensuring they meet Australian standards for international education. Prospective students can study in a regional Australian city known for its natural attractions and community feel. This page provides detailed information about the provider, its courses, and the student visa process.
Tenison Woods College is a Catholic co-educational school in Mount Gambier, South Australia. It has been CRICOS-registered since 2002, offering international students a pathway to Australian secondary education. The college prides itself on small class sizes, dedicated support for overseas students, and a curriculum aligned with the South Australian Certificate of Education (SACE). With only 3 active courses on the CRICOS register, the college focuses on quality over quantity. As a private provider, it can tailor programs to individual student needs. The college's location in Mount Gambier allows students to experience regional Australian life, with affordable living costs and access to outdoor activities like the Blue Lake and Umpherston Sinkhole. International students benefit from the ESOS Act protections, ensuring their tuition fees are safeguarded and they receive a high standard of education.
In Australia, CRICOS-registered institutions are classified as either Government or Private providers. Government providers include public universities, TAFEs, and government schools, which are funded by the state or federal government. Private providers, like Tenison Woods College, are independent schools or colleges that operate without direct government funding. They often offer specialised programs, smaller class sizes, and flexible entry requirements. For international students, choosing a private provider can mean more personalised attention and a tight-knit community. However, it's essential to verify that the provider is CRICOS-registered and that the courses offered meet your study goals. Tenison Woods College's private status allows it to maintain a limited international student capacity (20 students), ensuring a supportive environment. All private providers must adhere to the same ESOS Act standards as government institutions, so students are equally protected.
Tenison Woods College delivers courses exclusively in Mount Gambier, South Australia. The only delivery location is: Tenison Woods College — MOUNT GAMBIER, SA 5290. Mount Gambier is a regional city with a population of around 30,000, located about 450 km southeast of Adelaide. It is known for its volcanic lakes, caves, and wineries. The city has a relatively low cost of living compared to major capitals, with indicative weekly rent for a one-bedroom apartment around $250–$350, groceries at $80–$120, and public transport costs minimal as most amenities are within walking distance or a short bus ride. There are several other CRICOS-registered providers in Mount Gambier, including TAFE SA and a few language schools, but Tenison Woods College is the only secondary school provider for international students. The campus is well-equipped with modern facilities, including science labs, a library, and sporting grounds.
Tenison Woods College offers courses at three levels: Senior Secondary Certificate of Education, Primary School Studies, and Junior Secondary Studies. The Senior Secondary Certificate of Education program is designed for students in Years 11 and 12, leading to the South Australian Certificate of Education (SACE). This is a two-year course that prepares students for university entry. Primary School Studies cover Years R–6, providing foundational education in core subjects. Junior Secondary Studies cover Years 7–10, bridging primary and senior secondary education. Each course is registered on CRICOS with a specific duration and fee structure. While the CRICOS register lists 3 active courses, the college may offer additional subjects or extracurricular activities. International students should check the SACE curriculum and ensure they meet prerequisite subjects for their intended university course. The college supports international students with English language assistance and pastoral care.
According to the CRICOS register, the field of education for all courses at Tenison Woods College is '12 - Mixed Field Programmes'. This broad category encompasses programs that combine multiple subject areas, typical of school-level education. Unlike vocational or higher education fields such as Information Technology, Health, or Engineering, Mixed Field Programmes include general education that covers a variety of disciplines. For primary and secondary students, this means they study English, mathematics, science, humanities, arts, and languages as part of a comprehensive curriculum. The SACE program allows students to specialise in certain subjects in senior years, but the overall field classification remains Mixed Field. This is common for school-level providers. International students should consider their academic goals; if they plan to pursue a specific field like Engineering or Medicine at university, they should ensure their SACE subject choices align with university prerequisites.
International students intending to study at Tenison Woods College will need a Student visa (Subclass 500). This visa applies to full-time study in a CRICOS-registered course. Key requirements include: 1) Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) criterion – demonstrating a genuine intention to stay temporarily for study. 2) Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC) – mandatory health insurance for the duration of stay. 3) English language proficiency – typically IELTS 5.5 or equivalent for secondary school programs, but the college may have specific requirements. 4) Financial capacity – proof of sufficient funds to cover tuition, living costs ($21,041 per year for a single student), and travel. 5) Welfare arrangements for students under 18 – Tenison Woods College offers guardian services. The college will issue a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) once the application is accepted, which is required for the visa application. For detailed visa guidance, visit our Student Visa (Subclass 500) guide. Remember, HeadStart Academy is not a migration agent; consult a MARA-registered agent for personal advice.
Applying to Tenison Woods College as an international student involves three straightforward steps: 1) Research CRICOS-registered providers – Start by exploring the courses on the official CRICOS register to confirm Tenison Woods College offers the program you need. Filter by course level (e.g., Senior Secondary) and location (Mount Gambier). 2) Apply directly to the college – Submit your application through the college's admissions portal or via email. You'll need academic transcripts, English test scores (if applicable), and a personal statement. The college will assess your eligibility and may request an interview. For welfare arrangements, ensure the college provides guardian services if you are under 18. 3) Receive your Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) and apply for your Student visa – Once accepted, the college issues a CoE. Use this to lodge your visa application with the Department of Home Affairs. Include OSHC, proof of funds, and GTE statement. Wait for visa grant before booking travel. The college's international student coordinator can assist with questions.
All courses listed on this page are registered on the Commonwealth Register of Institutions and Courses for Overseas Students (CRICOS). Tenison Woods College's provider code is 01751G. You can verify its current registration status at cricos.teqsa.gov.au. Being CRICOS-registered means the provider has met Australian Government standards for teaching, facilities, and student services. International students are protected by the Education Services for Overseas Students (ESOS) Act, which includes: 1) Full disclosure of course fees and conditions before enrolment. 2) Tuition Protection Service (TPS) – refund or placement if the provider fails to deliver. 3) Right to transfer between providers under certain conditions. 4) Access to complaints and appeals processes. These protections apply to every CRICOS-registered provider, including private schools like Tenison Woods College. The Australian Government also requires providers to maintain quality assurance and regular audits.
Mount Gambier offers a unique study experience compared to major cities like Sydney or Melbourne. As a regional city, it has a lower cost of living, a tighter community, and access to stunning natural attractions such as the Blue Lake, sinkholes, and caves. For international students, this can be a quieter, more focused environment conducive to study. However, amenities like international restaurants, nightlife, and public transport are limited compared to metropolitan areas. The city has a small but growing international student community, with Tenison Woods College being a key provider. Typical weekly expenses might be around $250–$350 rent, $80 groceries, and $20 transport. There are no direct flights from overseas; most students fly into Adelaide and take a 4.5-hour bus or car ride. If you prefer a peaceful setting with strong community support, Mount Gambier could be ideal. Consider your personal preferences for climate (cool winters, mild summers) and access to cultural activities.
Ready to explore Tenison Woods College? Start by reviewing the courses on the CRICOS register and contact the college for application details.
Tenison Woods College (CRICOS 01751G) is a Private provider in Mount Gambier, SA with 3 currently non-expired CRICOS courses [CRICOS register, Apr 2026].
Example course from the register: Senior Secondary Years 11-12 (CRICOS 026373A) is listed at 104 weeks with tuition A$37,800 and estimated total A$39,250 [CRICOS register, Apr 2026].
Important: This page is general information only and not migration advice. For Student visa (Subclass 500) evidence requirements and current financial settings, verify directly with the Department of Home Affairs [checked 2026-08-21].