[2][3] Xavier College, operated in the Salesian tradition based on the life and example of Francis de Sales, has a pastoral care, homeroom system called an "Oratory".

It is named after the small community of boys who were raised as Catholics by Saint John Bosco (known affectionately as "Don" or "father").

He ensured they were treated with equal love and devotion while they learnt practical skills such as carpentry and printing.

[4] The College has four houses: de Sales after St Francis de Sales (motto: Inspiring others through kindness, colour blue); Mazzarello after St Maria Mazzarello (motto: Peacefully serving others with faith and humility, colour red); Handley after the founding principal of Xavier College, Fr.

The original site at Gawler Belt opened in 1995, with Fr Dennis Handley being appointed Principal of the school.