Independent Schools Guide 2024: Academy of Mary Immaculate believes we are 'stronger together'

Krissy Francis wanted to make a difference when she left Academy of Mary Immaculate last year. The school’s Dux is now studying a bachelor of science at the University of Melbourne, working at a specialist sensory equipment gym in the northern suburbs, and helping out in the Academy’s PE department.

“I’m hoping to pursue a career in healthcare,” she says. “That’s been an aspiration of mine for a while as the idea of helping people in any way I can is extremely fulfilling. I’d love to spend my life doing that.

“Academy helped me become the person I am today. The school taught me about myself and how to discover and pursue new passions. It taught me to be confident and to be accepting and compassionate towards others and their differences.

“The knowledge and experiences I gained will stay with me as I go out into the world.”

Since the school at the edge of the CBD opened its doors in 1857, improving the lives of students and those living and working in the community has been paramount.

As well as achieving impressive academic results — in 2023, 19 per cent of students achieved an ATAR of 90 and above and 42 per cent of students achieved a score of 80-plus — a commitment to social justice is an integral part of an Academy education.

Synergy and Justice Leader Melinda Sachanandani oversees an extensive Justice Program for years 7 to 12.

“Students serve breakfast to the homeless at St Mary’s House of Welcome, support students at Fitzroy Homework Club, run activities at local primary schools, spend time with the elderly in aged care and champion First Nations causes,” she says.

“Last year, students organised a stall to raise funds for people affected by the earthquake in Turkey and Syria. They also drive awareness campaigns about social, political and cultural issues.

“That sense of being aware and of being a valued citizen and building a better future together is important to Academy.”

Principal Sr Mary Moloney says it is a faith-based school, “and you can only live your faith if you live it in action”.

“Each year, we ask the Senior Student Leadership Team to choose a theme for the school, and they take that very seriously,” she says. “Last year, the theme was ‘Many voices, one community’. This year it is ‘Stronger together’, which recognises we can achieve great things by working together.

“Our girls receive the best possible education so they can go into the world and make a difference, and they work together knowing they can improve the lives of others.”

Academy of Mary Immaculate

88 Nicholson Street, Fitzroy VIC 3065

academy.vic.edu.au

Enquiries: Phone 9412 7100

enquiry@academy.vic.edu.au

Years: 7-12

Denomination: Catholic

Gender: Girls

Fees: $10,000

Boarding: No

Scholarships:  No

ATAR (median for 2023): 76.55