In celebration of education – a MacKillop reflection

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Students learn animal husbandry at MacKillop College. (photo courtesy National Photography.)

By Principal Rory Kennedy

In the year 2023 we stand in an era where education has been a staple and expectation; something we almost take for granted.

We know from current global perspectives that this is a privilege not accessible to everyone. We also know from historical and sociological perspectives that education can be the difference between accepting social inequities, and

progressive critical thinking. Education can give individuals opportunities and allow people hope. It can inspire positive change within communities and inform pathways to healing.

At MacKillop College, how we teach is ever evolving in honour of educational research and societal change. Learning, and the love of learning, is the benchmark we model, embrace, and aim to impart. Our yearly calendar is filled with events that give students opportunities in whatever area they might wish to explore, including sport, performing arts, hospitality, trade, outdoor education, and debate. Complementary to the calendared events, students are able

to pursue activities more niche in nature, by joining existing clubs, such as our Anime Club, Fan Fiction Club, HarMacK (harmony in diversity at MacKillop), EcoMacK (sustainability), etc., or by forming their own.

Stemming from the efforts of our namesake, St Mary of the Cross MacKillop, education is a privilege we do not take for granted. We work to give our students the tools, facilities and motivated inspiration needed to learn and grow holistically. And while we know these efforts start with the individual, we work to give our students a more globalised perspective with our focus on Intercultural Capability, languages and international programs, intrinsically aware of the role we play in global health and responsibility.

Our theme for this year is United in Service, and it is the educational beacon by which we are steering our students and staff. Alongside this, the focus is finding ‘happiness in making others happy’ (Mary MacKillop, 1889), and education is a dedicated avenue through which we work to do so.

MacKillop College – Celebrating all life, Challenging all people, Dreaming the new day.

For more go to www.mackillop.vic.edu.au, email enquiries@mackillop.vic.edu.au or phone 9734 5200.