A wide variety of quality schools in Mitchell Shire proves access to educational opportunities is not the sole province of major cities. Indeed locals benefit from proximity to educational institutions that many others travel across state and national borders to attend.
Assumption College moved to its present site in Kilmore in 1906 and has built its reputation around sport. Many sports stars, past and present, credit the college for their start in their chosen field.
New Principal, Michael Kenny, was struck by the friendly, easy going nature of the students which he believes reflects the country setting, right down to the school farm.
The school has 960 students, with 110 boarders from Victoria and interstate.
Just down the street, the Kilmore International School welcomes staff and students from even further afield. Approximately half the 430 students are from overseas – the majority from China.
Principal, John Settle, says that upon arrival in Kilmore, some overseas students are initially frightened by the amount of open space.
“They’ve never experienced it before – for many it’s the first time they have been able to see the stars in the night sky!” John Settle said. “But they quickly adapt to the rural setting.”
And if student results are any indication, they adapt well. Last year 70 per cent of graduates scored ENTERs over 90.
Many pupils go on to study overseas and leave the town at some stage, but Mr Settle believes it is the quality of life that often brings students back to Kilmore when they want to start a family of their own.
Brendan Hall is Manager of Goulburn Access to Employment (GATE Enterprises Inc), a not for profit organisation which provides meaningful work and learning opportunities to people with disabilities in Seymour. He notes people can be reluctant to move to the country if they have a disabled member in the family.
“But GATE ensures appropriate services are available,” he said.
Wallan, the Shire’s fastest growing town, has just celebrated the opening of its new secondary college. The school has a broad, challenging curriculum with 121 Year 7 students, and a school population expected to grow to 800 students.
It’s as easy as ABC to see why country kids are top of the class when it comes to lifestyle and educational options.
