Assumption College Kilmore: A Legacy of Community, Heritage, and Holistic Education

Assumption College Kilmore, a Catholic day and boarding school nestled in the growing town of Kilmore, Victoria, stands as a testament to the enduring values of community, heritage, and holistic education. With a rich history spanning over a century, the college fosters an environment where students and staff alike are encouraged to “inspire one another to shape the future with audacity and hope”. This article delves into the history, values, and programs that define Assumption College Kilmore, illustrating how it has evolved while staying true to its Marist roots.

A Journey Through Time: The History of Assumption College

Founded in 1893 by the Marist Brothers as a school for boys, Assumption College welcomed its first boarders in 1901. The college expanded its embrace to include female day students in 1971, followed by female boarders in 1995, mirroring the growth of Kilmore itself. The late 1970s saw the school at its boarding peak, housing over 300 students. While boarding numbers have decreased in recent years, with the college currently accommodating 72 boarders, the overall student enrolment has grown to over 1200.

In the late ‘70s the school was home to more than 300 boarders. In recent years, due to reduced boarding demand, the college now has 72 boarders and an overall enrolment of more than 1200 students.

The buildings that once housed The Kilmore International School were built in 1887 by the Marist Brothers of the Catholic Church. The site was purchased in the 1980s and renovated, and the school opened in 1990 with two international students.

Redefining Marist Education

Twenty-five years ago, the Marist Brothers undertook a significant initiative to revitalize the essence of Marist education across their schools. This involved revisiting the foundational principles of St Marcellin Champagnat, the founder of the Marist Brothers, and his five core characteristics: presence, love of work, simplicity, family spirit, and in the way of Mary. These characteristics serve as guiding principles, shaping the college's approach to education by combining a spiritual identity with excellence in teaching and pastoral wellbeing.

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“About 25 years ago, the Brothers were looking to update resources for all their schools, to really redefine what it is to be Marist,” explains Miss Fogarty. “We went back to the days of the founder, St Marcellin Champagnat, and those original five characteristics [presence, love of work, simplicity, family spirit and in the way of Mary], to help us define what is distinctive about Marist education.”

The Heart of Assumption: Family and Wellbeing

At Assumption College, the spirit of family is central to its identity. The school cultivates a nurturing environment within the boarding community and strengthens the ties between students and their families through technology and social media.

A Boutique Boarding Experience

Recognizing the importance of a familial atmosphere, Assumption College made a courageous decision to downsize its boarding residence. The large, historic boarding house was replaced with three smaller houses, two for boys and one for girls, each accommodating 24 students. This deliberate shift aimed to replicate a family dynamic, fostering stronger relationships and providing students with their own rooms.

“This decision came after we really homed in on those five characteristics. It became clear that we wanted to do more to develop the family life we wish to live and the familial culture we wish to embody,” said Director of Boarding Dick Morriss. The large, historic boarding house was closed in favour of three smaller houses, two for boys and one for girls, each accommodating 24 students and offering a more boutique experience.

Emphasis on Wellbeing and Restorative Practices

Assumption College prioritizes the holistic development of its students, nurturing their emotional wellbeing through various community and charitable projects. A key aspect of this is the implementation of restorative practices, which aim to reintegrate students into the community after they have lost the trust of others due to their behavior. These practices emphasize conversation, reflection, and finding ways to repair relationships and seek forgiveness, rather than relying on punitive consequences.

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“We don’t see punitive consequences as a good way of helping young adults to grow into the best version of themselves,” said Miss Fogarty. “We involve them in conversation and reflection on how their behaviour has impacted others, and then we help them to find a way to seek a better relationship, or, in fact, gain forgiveness.”

The boarding staff live onsite. This commitment fosters a strong sense of community. The staff are provided with professional learning opportunities and pastoral care courses.

Staying True to Marist and Rural Roots

Assumption College remains committed to its Marist and rural roots. The decision to downsize the boarding facilities, despite the financial investment, demonstrates a commitment to serving rural families and upholding the college's values.

The school has held back from aggressively pursuing the international market, prioritizing students from remote communities who seek a Catholic education. The college also welcomes students of other faiths, fostering an inclusive environment.

“It’s our raison d’être says Miss Fogarty “We’re committed to doing that, and committed to doing that well. Our boarding is about the kids and for the kids. It’s not about making money, or providing easy options. It’s genuinely providing the best experience for these kids that have to be away from their homes.”

To support its boarders, the school provides additional tutoring during evening study, which contributes to their academic success.

Growing Through Collaboration and Innovation

Assumption College embraces collaboration and continuous improvement. It leverages its ties with 12 Australian Marist schools, drawing on their collective expertise. The college is also an active member of the Australian Boarding Schools Association (ABSA), which provides access to resources and best practices.

“They’re our sworn sporting enemies, our sister schools. Actually, later in the years we’re hosting a conference for all Marist sporting schools through Australia,” explained Mr Morriss. We also join forces with our fellow Marist schools in leadership projects.

Preparing for the Future

Assumption College recognizes the need to equip students with the skills and knowledge required to thrive in modern workplaces. The college balances academic rigor with a holistic approach, focusing on developing purpose, resilience, and compassion in its students.

Miss Fogarty finds the real tension in looking at current programs, is considering what is life giving to students for their future: “We have academic rigour, but we also have a more holistic approach. It’s not just about our students having good marks, but about them having purpose, resilience and love in their hearts.”

Key Figures Shaping Assumption College

Kathryn (Kate) Fogarty - Principal

Kate Fogarty, the first female principal of Assumption College Kilmore, embodies the Marist tradition. Educated by the Marist Brothers and having taught in Marist schools across Australia, she is deeply committed to the college's values.

‘I have been formed in the Marist tradition, having been educated in and worked in Marist schools and other ministries in Victoria and the Northern Territory. I have been very fortunate to have worked at some wonderful schools, where I was mentored by fabulous Marists, brothers and lay,’ she said.

Miss Fogarty holds a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Melbourne and three master’s degrees (Theology and Education, and Instructional Leadership) from the Australian Catholic University.

Richard (Dick) Joseph Morriss - Director of Boarding

Dick Morriss is a passionate advocate for boarding education. With over 14 years of experience in both boys' and co-ed boarding programs, he is dedicated to creating a supportive and nurturing environment for students. He also completed a Graduate Certificate in Residential Care. His first appointment was Director of Boarding at Saint Augustine’s Marist College in Cairns where in eight years the program went from 126 to 215 boarders. His next position was at Xavier College in Melbourne, his alma mater.

Academic and Extracurricular Programs

Assumption College offers a comprehensive curriculum for students in Years 7 through 12. Year 7 students are introduced to a range of subjects, including digital technologies, English, humanities, sciences, health and physical education, languages (Punjabi and French), and religious education.

The school is also renowned for its achievements in sports, particularly Australian Rules Football. Many alumni have gone on to play in the AFL and VFL, with some even captaining their clubs. For many years, Assumption College has been well-known for turning out AFL and VFL football players, including some (Francis Bourke, Neil Danaher, and Shane Crawford) who captained their AFL clubs.

A Defence Family's Story: Finding Belonging Through Boarding

One Defence family's story highlights the unique benefits of boarding at Assumption College. For Kate B., a Defence Force wife who has moved her family nine times in twenty years, boarding provided her daughter with a steady place to land amidst constant relocation. While the initial goodbye was difficult, the experience led to deeper daily connection through morning check-ins and uninterrupted phone calls.

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