Esther Lauaki
Parade College has been opening a world of opportunities for young men for more than 150 years.
The college’s Bundoora and Preston campuses belong to the national body of Catholic schools known as Edmund Rice Education Australia (EREA).
Parade College, in common with these schools, takes its inspiration from Edmund Rice, founder of the Christian Brothers through the active promotion of academic excellence.
Last year, two students scored more than 99 for their ATAR, 35 students scored more than 90, a third of students scored more than 80 and half achieved more than 70.
Principal Andy Kuppe said Parade College offers a strong, caring environment through its pastoral house system.
“Our tutors really get to know our boys and their families over a three-year period,” Mr Kuppe says.
“Our young men are challenged to achieve as highly as possible in their academic studies as they discern the appropriate pathway to their future ambitions.
“They are also encouraged through the various co-curricular offerings to grow into people of good heart who have healthy self-respect, who value right relationships with other people, and who can offer themselves in service to the needy and marginalised people in our society.”
There is a designated VCE area and a state-of-the-art, learning centre where students engage in an extensive curriculum and a huge range of co-curricular opportunities.
The school also offers specialised advanced placement and scholarship programs and provides excellent sporting facilities, high performance classes, a sports institute for year 7s at Preston from next year and a sports academy with links to Latrobe University, Northern Knights, Melbourne City and the Diamond Valley Basketball Association.
Parade College partners with Mercy College for a musical and drama performance each year as part of its innovative performing arts program.
As a Registered Training Organisation, Parade also offers pathways including both VET and VCAL in purpose-built facilities.
“Our VCAL students gain excellent employment opportunities, further education or training,” Mr Kuppe says. “With long experience in responding to the particular educational needs of young men, the college offers many opportunities for growth through its sports programs, cultural activities, service to the community, retreats and liturgies and outdoor education”
Parade College, 1436 Plenty Road, Bundoora and 8 Clifton Grove, Preston. Inquiries: 9468 3300 or visit www.parade.vic.edu.au
