We acknowledge and pay our respects to the traditional custodians, past and present, of this land, the Bunurong people of the Kulin nation. Who long before us lived, loved and raised their children on this land. We also acknowledge all the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families in our community and acknowledge their physical and spiritual connections to the land. We come together today to learn, to share and to journey together.
frontdesk@mazenod.vic.edu.au
Rector, Fr Harry Dyer OMI Principal, Dr Paul Shannon 2025 College Captain, Sebastian Saba MACS Executive Director, Dr Edward Simons Oblate Provincial Superior, Fr Christian Fini OMI
Foreword from Our Rector
The charism of St Eugene de Mazenod serves as the guiding light that illuminates our mission and values.
St Eugene’s unwavering commitment to serving the marginalized and his profound dedication to instilling hope and compassion continues to have real meaning every day at Mazenod College.
The Strategic Plan for 2025-2030 is intricately woven with the threads of St Eugene’s charism, reflecting his spirit of empathy, inclusivity, and transformative leadership.
St Eugene’s charism inspires us to create an environment where every student is valued, nurtured, and empowered to embrace their unique potential. His legacy of humility, tenderness, and unwavering dedication to social justice serves as a beacon, guiding our efforts to foster a culture of warmth, empathy, and compassion.
By aligning our strategic initiatives with the charism of St Eugene de Mazenod, we aim to instil in our students the values of service and integrity, empowering them to become compassionate leaders who are committed to making a positive impact in their communities.
While our Strategic Plan over the next five years will see change, we know that our purpose remains constant—to live the charism of St Eugene de Mazenod.
Fr Harry Dyer OMI Rector
Foreword from Our Principal
I am delighted to share with you Mazenod College’s Strategic Plan 2025-2030: Inspiring. Empowering.
The last two decades have seen profound change. Technological change now occurs rapidly and with transformative impacts. Globalisation continues to influence local economic, social and environmental conditions and Covid has changed how we live and work.
Although God’s Spirit and Christian faith continues to express itself in these realities, an increasingly secular Australia challenges all Catholics on a daily basis.
Mazenod College is neither exempt from the consequences of these changes, nor from the responsibility to respond by thinking creatively and innovatively.
The Strategic Plan’s connection to the charism of St Eugene de Mazenod underscores our commitment to nurturing the whole person, fostering a sense of purpose, and enabling our students to flourish as humble, compassionate, and socially conscious individuals.
The Strategic Plan places a strong emphasis on student voice. By prioritising student voice, we aim to create an environment where students feel heard, valued, and empowered to contribute to the decision-making processes that affect their educational journey. Our Strategic Plan is built on two foundational pillars: Inspiration and Empowerment. These are not just buzzwords. They are the driving force behind our commitment to creating a positive and impactful environment for students and staff.
Our Strategic Plan also emphasises the importance of community and connection. By building strong relationships within our school community and with external partners, we enhance our overall educational experience. This holistic approach ensures that our students are not only academically successful but also wellrounded individuals prepared for the challenges of the future.
By prioritising inspiration and empowerment, we aim to create an environment where students and staff are motivated, engaged, and committed to achieving success, ensuring that every student thrives at Mazenod College.
I look forward to working with the Mazenod College community to implement this plan over the next five years.
Dr Paul Shannon Principal
Foreword from 2025 College Captain
At the very core, Mazenod College is built on the values of Catholic education, student voice, and a community of striving individuals.
From a student body perspective, we appreciate the efforts the College is making to implement a stronger student voice and a further enriched community, ensuring the empowerment and involvement of each unique student.
Through the school’s plan to implement new programs and initiatives that motivate and engage staff and students, we can ensure Mazenod College further develops its reputation in producing the men of tomorrow.
The phrase “Inspiring. Empowering.” encompasses what Mazenod aims to fulfil, as many new concepts and strategies aim to develop the creativity, leadership and communal aspect of the College.
Thank you for engaging the student leaders in the development of the Mazenod College Strategic Plan 2025-2030.
Sebastian Saba 2025 College Captain
Foreword from MACS Executive Director
The Mazenod College Strategic Plan 2025-2030: Inspiring. Empowering. represents an unwavering commitment to the holistic development of students and staff, guided by the charism of St Eugene de Mazenod. I congratulate the College, led by Principal Dr Paul Shannon, on the development of this important document.
As we navigate an ever-changing world, the College’s strategic initiatives outlined in this plan will contribute to fostering an environment where every student is valued, nurtured, and empowered to reach their full potential.
Recent times have brought about profound changes, challenges, and opportunities. These shifts have influenced how we live, work, and learn. The plan recognises the importance of responding to these changes with creativity and innovation, in an authentically Catholic way, by striving to fulfil the MACS 2030 vision that every student is inspired and enabled to flourish and enrich the world.
The College’s plan is built on two foundational pillars: Inspiration and Empowerment. These pillars are the driving force behind the College’s commitment to creating a positive and impactful environment for both students and staff. Further, the plan emphasises the importance of community and connection, both of which are inherent and fundamental to a fulfilling Catholic education. This holistic approach ensures that students develop as well-rounded individuals, prepared for the challenges of the future.
As we embark on this journey, we are inspired by the legacy of St Eugene de Mazenod, whose commitment to serving the marginalised and fostering a culture of warmth, empathy, and compassion continues to guide our work today and into the future.
I look forward to supporting the Mazenod College community to implement this plan over the next five years, ensuring that the College and MACS continue forming lives to enrich the world.
Dr Edward Simons Executive Director
Melbourne
Archdiocese
Catholic Schools (MACS)
Foreword from Oblate Provincial Superior
Education has been a significant mission of the Australian Province of the Oblates of Mary Immaculate (Oblates) since the first courageous missionaries arrived in Perth over 130 years ago, taking on a parish and establishing a Reformatory School. Although the Oblates and founder St Eugene de Mazenod are not widely known in Australia, our unique charism offers valuable contributions to the Church, the young people and families we serve through the ministry of education.
St Eugene de Mazenod did not initially aim to establish a religious congregation or concentrate specifically on education. He identified a need within the Church at that time and formed a community of like-minded priests to address these needs. Mazenod College’s Strategic Plan for 2025-2030, titled “Inspiring. Empowering.”, adeptly balances the respect for its charism and longstanding traditions with the need to address contemporary demands. This plan aims to achieve excellence in educating and developing young men spiritually, intellectually, and physically, through innovative means.
May the Lord, through the intercession of St. Eugene de Mazenod, continue to bless and guide the College as it passionately strives to “Leave nothing undared for the Kingdom of God.”
Fr Christian Fini OMI
Missionary Oblates of Mary Immaculate Provincial Superior
Foreword from Chair of the Advisory Council
The Mazenod College Strategic Plan 2025 – 2030 provides a framework within which the College can operate, set goals, develop measurable targets, and approve priorities over the next five years.
Being a Catholic school in Melbourne, our Strategic Plan aligns with the vision of our governing body, the Melbourne Archdiocese Catholic Schools. Moreover, at its core, the Strategic Plan also reflects and promotes the Oblate charism developed by St Eugene de Mazenod.
The plan illuminates the path for not only the College Leadership team and staff, but importantly, also for the Advisory Council. This is important, as it allows us to bring our voices from different industry sectors to bear in College planning.
One aspect of the Strategic Plan that is bold and ambitious is the focus on building significant networks and partnerships within the community. The greater Monash geographic region is a significant area for Victoria in terms of education, research, and industry manufacturing and innovation. Mazenod College lies within the heart of this technological precinct, so we have a wonderful advantage and must seize this opportunity to set our sights high and develop innovative ways to improve student outcomes.
Mazenod College can, and should, aspire to exhibit leadership across: pedagogical methods; the novel use of modern technology; engagement with the community; and the development of well-round, empathetic, Christian, young men. The Strategic Plan 2025 – 2030 sets the College up to be able to do all of this and more.
Dr Eugene B. Fredericks Chair of the Advisory Council
Our Mission
Our mission guides our work every single day. Mazenod College is a Melbourne Archdiocese Catholic Secondary School for boys in the charism of St Eugene de Mazenod.
Our Vision
Centred on the person of Jesus Christ, our Oblate community is built on faith, nourished by the Eucharist and seeks to live and share Gospel values in word and deed. Each person at Mazenod is encouraged to contribute to a welcoming and caring community in collaboration with our local Parishes. Mazenod College aims to educate the whole person in the pursuit of personal excellence, to make a better world for all.
Alignment with MACS 2030 Vision
The Strategic Plan for Mazenod College aligns with the vision outlined in MACS 2030: Forming Lives to Enrich the World. The plans emphasise the formation of lives of faith, hope, and love.
Mazenod College’s commitment to excellence in teaching and learning, social justice, and community engagement, as well as the focus on nurturing faith and developing humble men, reflects the alignment between the two visions.
By aligning with the principles outlined in MACS 2030, the Mazenod College Strategic Plan aims to contribute to MACS 2030 vision of inspiring and enabling students to flourish and enrich the world.
STRATEGIC STATEMENT
Mazenod in 2030
Mazenod College’s Strategic Plan 2025-2030: Inspiring. Empowering. is underpinned by student voice, inclusivity and the celebration and acceptance of a diverse range of talents. We will use the language of growth and personal excellence to inform our decision making and practice.
The education of students at Mazenod College requires teachers who know how young people learn. It requires teachers who can build strong relationships with their students and know how to respond to their needs. Over the next five years, teachers will encourage boys to develop character and knowledge, and students will be equipped with the skills to be creative, connected and engaged.
What will Mazenod College look like?
By 2030 Mazenod College will be recognised as an innovative and modern Catholic school.
Mazenod College’s commitment to holistic growth, student well-being and personal excellence will guide all decisionmaking and practices.
Our students will be central to a vibrant and inclusive community where their voice is valued, diverse talents are celebrated and they are empowered to thrive and contribute positively to their communities.
We will inspire character and knowledge development in students, equipping them with the skills to be creative, connected, and engaged.
We will possess a deep understanding of individual learning styles, fostering strong student-teacher relationships and catering to the unique needs of each student.
Our Goals
These five goals will guide the work of Mazenod College in 2030.
As the College progresses through the next five years, priority projects will be planned and implemented. Some projects may change, others might be paused and new initiatives will be identified to meet our goals.
Improve student wellbeing
Build a reputation as an innovative and modern Catholic school
Nurture academic achievement
Establish an empowering student voice
Empower staff to cultivate a highperformance workplace through continuous improvement
Inspiring. Empowering.
Inspiration and empowerment are deeply interconnected. When our students are inspired, they feel motivated and confident. This sense of inspiration empowers them to take control of their learning, set ambitious goals, and pursue their interests with enthusiasm.
It fosters a belief that each student can make a difference, encouraging them to take an active role in their education and personal growth.
Empowerment leads to improved well-being, academic performance and personal growth, equipping Mazenod College students with the critical thinking skills and selfefficacy essential for their lifelong learning and holistic development.
For our dedicated staff, inspiration fuels innovation and collaboration. Inspired teachers and administrators take initiative, lead positive change, and create dynamic learning experiences for students.
An empowered staff strengthen the supportive and nurturing environment we provide for our students.
FOR STUDENTS FOR STAFF FOR FAMILIES
Inspiration and empowerment supports their faith journey to live the charism of St Eugene, it enables improved academic performance and it develops a positive sense of masculinity along the journey to manhood.
Inspiration and empowerment equips everyone to flourish by thinking, leading and working in new ways providing clear direction and license, and motivating ongoing reflection on why people choose to work in a Catholic school.
Inspiration and empowerment enables connection and engagement with Mazenod and supports knowledge and a deeper understanding of their son’s faith and education journeys.
Student Voice
The Strategic Plan places a strong emphasis on the concept of student voice.
By prioritising student voice, Mazenod College aims to create an environment where students feel heard, valued, and empowered to contribute to the decisionmaking processes that affect their educational journey.
Initiatives like the Vertical House System and the Mazenod Leadership Program are designed to foster stronger relationships and provide platforms for students to lead and participate in decision-making processes.
By giving students a voice, we not only validate their experiences but also encourage them to take ownership of their learning and personal development.
Innovation
Embracing innovation and cultivating an innovative mindset will be essential to implementing the Mazenod College Strategic Plan. It will enable the College to adapt to change, drive continuous improvement, navigate uncertainty, and seize new opportunities, ensuring that the Strategic Plan remains relevant and impactful.
Innovation will be instrumental in driving continuous improvement and excellence in teaching, learning, and operational practices.
By encouraging a culture of creativity and innovation, the College will explore new methodologies, technologies, and approaches to enhance the overall educational experience for students and staff.
This can include the adoption of innovative teaching styles, the integration of emerging technologies in the curriculum, and the development of progressive programs to support student growth and development.
An innovative mindset promotes a spirit of adaptability and resilience, enabling the College to navigate unforeseen circumstances and disruptions effectively. In an era characterised by rapid change and uncertainty, the ability to innovate and embrace new ideas is paramount to ensure the successful execution of the Strategic Plan amidst evolving educational landscapes and societal shifts.
Innovation fosters a spirit of entrepreneurship and forward-thinking, empowering the College to identify and capitalise on new opportunities for growth, collaboration, and community engagement. By encouraging innovative practices, the College will establish strategic partnerships, develop impactful community initiatives, and create a dynamic learning environment that prepares students for the challenges and opportunities of the future.
Better Decisions for Better Outcomes
Mazenod is immersed in an increasingly complex environment, where decisions made in one area can significantly impact other parts of the College.
It is crucial for our decision-making processes to comprehensively consider the potential consequences across all areas.
This holistic approach acknowledges the interconnected nature of the systems, roles, functions and processes within our College. Decisions at all levels need to be made with a clear understanding of their broader impacts.
By embracing this perspective, we will enhance our effectiveness and create efficiencies, contributing to the successful implementation of Mazenod College’s Strategic Plan 2025-2030: Inspiring. Empowering.
Key Themes & Implementation Roles
A Proudly Catholic School
Humble Leaders Dedicated to Making a Difference
Teaching, Learning and Operational Excellence
Creative and Innovative Connected to Our Region
A Proudly Catholic School
Mazenod College is committed to supporting faith and formation experiences, and will continue to be grounded in the Catholic tradition providing a rich framework for the search for meaning that includes ritual, symbol, sacred texts, prayer, religious experience and celebration of the Eucharist.
Mazenod College will extend the breadth and depth of social justice engagement.
MAZENOD PARISHES PROGRAM
Identify actions that enable student engagement with parishes and their primary schools. There may be opportunities for coordinated activities across liturgy, music, sport, art, vocational education and more.
RECONCILIATION ACTION PLAN
Implement the recommended actions of the Reconciliation Action Plan, including introducing immersion programs and reviewing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander perspectives in the curriculum.
THE CHARISM OF ST EUGENE DE MAZENOD
Implement purposeful activities that are aligned to the charism.
SOCIAL
JUSTICE AT MAZENOD
Work more closely with Catholic communities and related organisations to participate more deeply in social justice programs and activities.
Implementation Roles
Parishes Program
Reconciliation Action Plan
The charism of St Eugene de Mazenod
Social Justice at Mazenod
Oblate Faith & Charism Team Social Justice Leader
Oblate Faith & Charism Team Director of Oblate Faith & Charism
Oblate Faith & Charism Team Social Justice Leader
Mazenod
Oblate Faith & Charism Team Director of Oblate Faith & Charism
Humble Leaders Dedicated to Making a Difference
Mazenod College nurtures students to become compassionate leaders who positively impact the world. Through empathy, integrity, and service, our students are empowered to drive meaningful change throughout their lives.
MAZENOD STUDENT LEADERSHIP PROGRAM
Design and implement a Year 7-12 program that provides all students with leadership knowledge and skills development opportunities.
MAZENOD OLD COLLEGIANS’ ASSOCIATION
Revitalise the Mazenod Old Collegians’ Association to foster frequent and meaningful engagement with alumni, integrating them more directly into the College community.
VERTICAL HOUSE SYSTEM
Implement a Vertical House System bringing together students from multiple year levels into the same house for regular meetings and activities. Each house will be guided by a dedicated House Leader, fostering stronger relationships through consistent pastoral leadership.
POSITIVE MASCULINITY PROGRAM
Build a culture of student voice and agency for Year 7-12 students, characterised by warmth, empathy and compassion, where boys feel safe to be authentic, express vulnerability and explore what it means to be a man.
Implementation Roles
Teaching, Learning and Operational Excellence
Mazenod College will provide opportunities from a wide and varied curricular program that emphasises growth and personal excellence, underpinned by explicit instruction and the Science of Learning and the Art of Teaching.
Implementation Roles
PRIORITY
RESPONSIBILITY
PERSONNEL
Mazenod Digital Transformation ICT Leadership Team Director of Business Operations
Student Pathways Review
Professional Growth Program
Teachers as Researchers
Learning to Learn Program
Leadership Team Vice Principal
Leadership Team
Leadership Team
Curriculum Committee
Mazenod Registered Training Organisation Principal
Disciplinary Literacy Project
Curriculum Committee
Deputy Principal (Staff)
Deputy Principal (Staff)
Deputy Principal (Teaching & Learning)
Head of Vocational Education
Deputy Principal (Teaching & Learning)
MAZENOD DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION
Focus areas might include administrative efficiency and optimised resource management, strengthened internal and external communications, curriculum development, integrated teaching and learning and professional development. ICT professional development will ensure all staff are equipped to adapt to evolving digital tools and methodologies.
STUDENT PATHWAYS REVIEW
Complete a review that examines the holistic student experience from Years 7-12.
PROFESSIONAL GROWTH PROGRAM
Design and implement a program that provides staff with leadership knowledge and skills development opportunities.
TEACHERS AS RESEARCHERS
Build a culture of learning informed by educational best practice. Increase the capacity of staff to undertake research, including professional learning teams, coaching, mentoring and the provision of constructive feedback.
LEARNING TO LEARN PROGRAM
Structured activities for students to understand strategies and tactics that improve their capacity and capabilities to learn.
MAZENOD REGISTERED TRAINING ORGANISATION
Pursue options for the College to become a RTO.
DISCIPLINARY LITERACY PROJECT
The disciplinary literacy project is designed to respond to the needs of students and teachers, providing a program in which literacy is embedded in all subject areas, across all year groups. It includes a program of assessment of current teaching practices and guidelines for the incorporation of literacy content into curriculum planning and delivery.
Creative and Innovative
The Creative and Innovative priority projects at Mazenod College embody a forward-thinking approach to education, emphasising adaptability, creativity, and the pursuit of excellence. These initiatives are designed to empower students and staff to embrace new ideas, to think, work and learn differently enabling improved outcomes.
INNOVATOR-IN-RESIDENCE
Appoint an innovation expert to collaborate with students, teachers and staff to foster a culture of innovation.
PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM
Build knowledge of what it means to be creative and innovative such as: design thinking, systems learning, processes and teaching styles.
INNOVATION FUND STUDENT INNOVATION
Establish a funding program for school-based innovation projects e.g. pilot projects.
Identify opportunities to expand innovation in the curriculum.
Implementation Roles
Connected to Our Region
Mazenod College will build significant networks and form strategic community partnerships, giving students and staff valuable connection to industry, higher education, community, sport and the arts.
MAZENOD PARTNERS PROGRAM
Identify local organisations where partnership programs and initiatives can be formed that are aligned to focused teaching and learning outcomes, and whole of College priorities.
Opportunities for local partnerships might include:
• Monash University
• Gateway LLEN
• Museum of Australian Photography
• Sacred Heart Girls’ College, Avila College, Salesian College
