Preparing Students for a Bright Future and Economic Growth on the Mornington Peninsula

Padua College, situated in the heart of the Mornington Peninsula, is more than just a school. Guided by a "North Star" rooted in Catholic Franciscan and Mercy values, Padua fosters a community where young people are encouraged to pursue excellence, embrace service, and build a life of purpose. Today’s students at Padua are not only learners; they are future leaders and essential contributors to the Peninsula’s growth and wellbeing. With a shared commitment to harmony and service, Padua College empowers students to shape a bright future for themselves and their community.

Empowering Padua Students Through Agency and Purpose

At Padua College, student agency is nurtured through a commitment to each student’s unique journey. By placing students at the centre of their learning, we encourage them to take ownership of their education and explore how their talents can benefit the world around them. Our “North Star” guides this journey, helping students to grow in resilience, compassion, and a strong sense of social responsibility.

These principles are deeply influenced by Franciscan and Mercy values, which place an emphasis on care for the whole person, a spirit of service, and a love for creation. Our students are encouraged not only to excel academically but to see themselves as part of a larger community. Through service, empathy, and respect, they are taught to contribute meaningfully to the world in harmony with others.

A Launchpad for Economic Growth and Opportunity

The Mornington Peninsula’s economy is evolving, with new opportunities emerging in fields such as technology, tourism, environmental management, and sustainable agriculture. Padua College plays a vital role in preparing students to step into these areas with confidence, skill, and a spirit of service.

Guided by Catholic values, Padua’s curriculum inspires students to consider how their personal growth can contribute to a prosperous and compassionate community. Imagine Padua graduates who, grounded in the values of harmony and stewardship, become entrepreneurs, environmental scientists, artists, and innovators. With the support of a college that cares for their academic and spiritual formation, these young people are ready to meet the Peninsula’s unique challenges with integrity and purpose.

Education with Real-World Relevance

Padua College’s curriculum combines academic rigour with a practical understanding of real-world challenges. By integrating Franciscan values of respect for creation and Mercy values of compassion, Padua empowers students to engage meaningfully with their education and their community. Through programs in STEM, the humanities, the arts, and environmental studies, students learn to see the direct impact of their actions on the world around them.

Our hands-on approach includes project-based learning, internships, and partnerships with local businesses and organisations. These experiences allow students to practice the values of community service, environmental stewardship, and ethical responsibility—qualities that are essential for creating a thriving and connected Mornington Peninsula.

A Focus on Sustainability and Stewardship

Padua students have a strong sense of responsibility towards preserving the Mornington Peninsula’s natural beauty. Inspired by Franciscan values that emphasise a deep respect for nature, and Mercy values that call us to act with care, our students are engaged in sustainability projects that benefit both the environment and the economy. This commitment aligns perfectly with the Peninsula’s goals for a sustainable future, preparing Padua students to lead in areas of renewable energy, conservation, and responsible tourism.

Through partnerships with conservation groups and opportunities to apply their learning to real environmental challenges, Padua students are becoming the Peninsula’s next generation of eco-conscious leaders. They leave Padua not only with a love for their surroundings but with the skills and determination to protect them for future generations.

Opportunities for Every Student

Padua College recognises that each student brings unique talents and interests. Our North Star inspires us to support students in exploring their strengths and to provide pathways for every individual to contribute to the local community. Whether in technology, the arts, trades, or sports, students at Padua are encouraged to discover how their passions align with the needs of the Peninsula.

Our students are invited to use their skills to build a vibrant community, one that respects diversity and celebrates each person’s contribution. By fostering an environment of support, collaboration, and respect, Padua College ensures that each student can find their purpose and grow in service to others.

Building the Future of the Peninsula in Harmony

At Padua College, we are proud to prepare students for a life of purpose and impact. Grounded in Catholic values and a deep commitment to harmony, we equip our students to contribute to a Mornington Peninsula that is both prosperous and connected. Through a journey that emphasises service, respect for all creation, and the joy of learning, Padua students are prepared to step into the world as compassionate, responsible, and inspired individuals.

To the students of Padua College: this is your time. Take charge of your learning, pursue your dreams, and embrace the opportunities that lie ahead. Your journey at Padua is just the beginning of a life filled with purpose, growth, and service. Together, let us build a community that reflects our values, our love for the Peninsula, and our commitment to a future that is bright, harmonious, and just.

Academic Challenge Day – A Celebration of Talent and Teamwork

This year’s Academic Challenge Day hosted by the Tyabb campus, proved to be a remarkable event filled with in-depth exploration, creativity, and teamwork. Tailored especially for gifted and talented students, the day was not just an academic exercise but an inspiring occasion to forge connections and build collaborations among like-minded peers. The event was highlighted by an academic competition, which brought together Year 7 students from all our three campuses, along with talented Year 6 students from neighbouring primary partner schools: St Macartan’s, St Joseph’s (Crib Pt), Our Lady of Fatima, St Brendan’s, St Mary’s and St Thomas More.

Teams engaged in a variety of challenges designed to test their knowledge, skills, and passion across a wide range of disciplines: Engineering, Mathematics, Design, English, Code-Breaking, Science, and Humanities, STEM, Design, Sustainability, and culminated in a novel team performance. Participants eagerly competed for the prestigious Challenge Trophy and whilst the results were incredibly close, with all students demonstrating outstanding capability and effort, the first-place trophy was ultimately awarded to St Thomas More Primary School, whose exceptional teamwork and problem-solving skills shone throughout the day. Check out these results, where the top three for each category are designated by the green cells! [Overall position – last column]

A brainchild born from Andrew Ferguson in 2023, the Academic Challenge Day was a resounding success, celebrating the brilliance and potential of young minds while fostering a love for learning and a spirit of camaraderie. Sincere thanks to all the Junior Campus Learning & Pedagogy Leaders (Melissa Kenyon, Andrew Ferguson, Sonny Voss & Chris Ryan), Phil Helisma, Nicole Love, the College Maintenance Team, Kelly, Scheen, Matthew Williams, Sam Dewhurst, Heath Dwyer, Penny Markham, Georga Bryant, Tina Lunny and Anne-Marie Wilkinson, who supported in various roles on and before the day. Another showcase of staff leadership, teamwork, support and efficacy. Thank you!

VCAA Examinations – A Time for Excellence

The VCAA written examinations are officially underway, marking an important milestone in our students' academic journeys. So far this week, students have confidently tackled examinations in English, English Language, Visual Communications Design. Their dedication and maturity have switched gears as they commenced the written examination period with a commendable start, reflecting the hard work and preparation many have invested in the lead up.

A special thank you goes out to Senior Learning & Pedagogy Leaders, Helen Sugameli and Ciara Roberts who have steered the Senior Studies and Administration team, led by Lauren Cameron and Kate McLoughlin, have played a crucial role in the seamless organisation and execution of the VCAA examinations. Their tireless support and meticulous planning have ensured that everything runs smoothly, allowing students to focus fully on performing at their best.

A letter to our Year 12 Students

Student Photo Permissions

At times, photographs or videos of our students will be published in newsletters, on the school intranet or website, or in our social media. Copies of our Standard Collection Notice and Privacy Policy are available on the College website in the Enrolments section of our Policies page. Please note that consent to use these images in this way, if provided at enrolment, may be withdrawn at any time by contacting our marketing team via email: marketing@padua.vic.edu.au .