I have just tried installing Bitcoin Core recently as I was told its more secure than other online wallets, but i need some help regarding the following:-
- where to set the secret phrase

Do you mean your password? Or seed?
Bitcoin Core doesn't have a seed. You'll need to back up your wallet.dat file.
For password, go to Settings -> Encrypt wallet.
- how to know my private key

How to export your private key (ignore the importing to Omniwallet part)- My receiving address is it the same or does it change

It changes every new transaction.
- if my machine crashes how do i restore my funds (i know they are stored on the blockchain but how to have access to it with BTC Core??)
- what files do i need to backup and how to RESTORE it on a different PC or after PC reformat/crash ??...
Your wallet.dat file.