# Southern Cross School of Distance Education

Southern Cross School of Distance Education is a NSW government secondary school in East Ballina, New South Wales, Australia.

- **Sector**: NSW government school
- **Type**: Secondary School
- **Gender**: Co-ed
- **Year levels**: Kindergarten to Year 12
- **Enrolments**: 79 (2025)
- **Address**: 30 Chickiba Drive, East Ballina NSW 2478
- **Phone**: (02) 6681 0300
- **Website**: https://sthcrossc-d.schools.nsw.gov.au
- **Email**: southerncrossschoolofdistanceeducation@det.nsw.edu.au
- **ACARA AGE ID**: 68862
- **Established**: 2018-01-29

## About

Southern Cross School of Distance Education is an equity provision school that serves students across a broad geographical range in Northern NSW, from Tweed Heads in the North to Coffs Harbour in the South and extending to Graves End in the West. The school caters primarily to students who face challenges completing traditional schooling, offering flexible educational pathways tailored to individual needs. This includes full-time education, as well as single subject enrolment options based on specific eligibility criteria such as geographical isolation, significant support needs, or transitional requirements.

The school has a strong focus on creating an inclusive environment where every student feels safe and supported from their first day. It prioritises opportunities for learning and growth, with a diverse range of subjects designed to empower students in discovering their passions. Faculty members are dedicated to working closely with families, developing personalised plans that allow students to learn in a way that suits their unique circumstances.

Southern Cross School of Distance Education fosters a virtual learning environment, emphasising connection and support through online lessons, digital learning programmes, and ongoing communication with families and supervisors. This approach ensures that regardless of their location or situation, students have access to a high-quality public education, facilitating their personal and academic success.

## Mission

Providing quality distance education since 1995. Opportunity, Wellbeing, Engagement. We help every student to learn, grow and succeed.

Motto: "Opportunity, Wellbeing, Engagement."

## Enrolment history

| Year | Enrolments |
| --- | --- |
| 2025 | 79 |
| 2024 | 241 |
| 2023 | 366 |
| 2022 | 529 |
| 2021 | 545 |
| 2020 | 533 |
| 2019 | 641 |
| 2018 | 626 |

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Source: SchoolAtlas (https://www.schoolatlas.com.au/schools/68862-southern-cross-school-of-distance-education), compiled from ACARA and NSW Department of Education data, reference year 2025. SchoolAtlas does not rank schools.