Independent Schools Guide 2024: Big opportunities in a small-school setting at St Mary's College

Darren Atkinson has quickly settled into his role as Principal of St Mary’s College, and his broad experience in co-education and educational leadership is proving valuable in continuing the College’s vision of excellence in learning, compassion and justice, and inspiring students to shape a better world for all.

While St Mary’s College in St Kilda East is relatively young, it is founded from schools steeped in tradition, and is also a member of Edmund Rice Education Australia.

It is one of 55 secondary schools across the country that share a common approach to Catholic education based on key touchstones of Liberating Education, Gospel Spirituality, Justice and Solidarity, and Inclusive Community.

St Mary’s College is also proudly co-educational.

“A feature of schooling in Australia that is valued by parents and carers – the first educators – is choice,” Atkinson says.

“They can choose quality public education or schools offering excellent education founded in a particular faith tradition or philosophy.

“Another choice offered to families is whether single-sex or co-education is preferable for their child.

“Co-educational schools offer several advantages, including fostering social interaction between genders, promoting diverse perspectives and preparing students for real-world interactions. This helps create an inclusive and balanced learning environment.”

Maintaining a strong sense of community is a key focus of life at St Mary’s College.

“We seek to put the child at the centre of all we do and it is important to us that our students feel known,” Atkinson says. “Our modest size helps ensure students are not lost in a large system but are seen as unique individuals with qualities to be nurtured.

“We’re also fortunate that our small-school setting does not come at the expense of classroom and co-curricular opportunities.

“St Mary’s has a similar range of subject offerings and sporting, artistic and leadership experiences to that found in larger schools.”

Social justice also permeates the school, and the entire school community participates in the annual Social Justice Walkathon. Students each aim to raise $50 and year levels hold fundraising events in the lead-up to the event. Communities in India with a long-standing relationship with St Mary’s College and local charities benefit from the students’ efforts.

Looking ahead to further strengthen community connections, the Edmund Rice Campus is currently undergoing extensive refurbishment in preparation
for students and staff moving to one site later in 2024.

“The students see benefits from being united on the one campus and staff are also excited about the potential to work together towards common goals,” Atkinson says.

St Mary’s College

A co-ed secondary Catholic college

11 Westbury Street, St Kilda East, VIC 3183

stmaryscollege.vic.edu.au

Enquiries: 9529 6611

enquiries@stmaryscollege.vic.edu.au

Years: 7–12

Denomination: Catholic

Gender: Co-educational

Fees: $11,640 –$12,140

Boarding: No

Scholarships: Yes