Our Values, Traditions and Goals

OUR SCHOOL CREST AND MOTTO

Our crest is derived from the coat of arms of St John Paul II, after whom our College is named.

The outside lettering implies a circular shape, reminding us that we belong to a community and each of us is in the process of becoming the person we are meant to be. A circle helps us to think of community, unity, continuity and wholeness.

The shield symbolises defence. Education is our protection and defence against ignorance. Education includes not only what we learn from class activities but also what we learn from belonging to a community and sharing its experiences.

The cross is the sign of God’s redeeming love for us, as shown in the crucifixion of Jesus.

The M recalls Mary’s place in the life of the church.

The motto refers to Jesus’ statement: I am the way, the truth and the life. (John 14:6)

At St John Paul College, we are challenged to walk in his way and to live in his truth.

MISSION

Enabling our students to experience the fullness of life (John 10:10).

At St John Paul College, we provide a quality faith-filled education enabling students to be inspired to grow spiritually, socially, emotionally, physically and intellectually.

VISION

Our vision is to be a Christ-centred community where all students have an equal opportunity to learn. We provide an educational environment that challenges and supports each individual to achieve their personal best and acknowledges individual needs. We inspire students to learn about themselves, their relationships with others and the world around them, so they are filled with hope and passion.

PURPOSE

Our St John Paul College community works, in partnership with parents, to provide a quality education in a Catholic, Christian environment, which fosters and nurtures Gospel values. The College strives to provide a safe, positive and productive learning environment, where all students can reach their full potential, spiritually, academically, creatively, socially and physically.

VALUES

At St John Paul, we actively promote the values of:

'have the humility to value others; to be open to life's grandeur and a willingness to be surprised and uplifted by goodness wherever they find it' - Jonathan Sachs
be committed to developing as leaders in society rather than simply gaining a certificate of achievement
work towards a just future rather than an economically satisfying present
question whether what is scientifically possible is also humanly appropriate
realise that Christian freedom is the gift of a God who allows us to make choices and be responsible for our own destiny
understand that lasting peace is the product of a passion for justice and that a love that lasts is founded on forgiveness
form a relationship with Jesus, which leads them to practise the virtues he taught and to worship regularly with the Christian community
know that wisdom is not found only in technological innovation and that the challenges of our time will not be solved by following a formula but by following Jesus and trusting in the assurances he gives.

GOALS

Frequently asked Questions

What does it mean that Catholic schools are “proudly Catholic”?

Catholic schools are communities built on the teachings of Jesus and the mission of the Church to share the Good News. Being “proudly Catholic” means our schools embrace a rich tradition of prayer, reflection, values, and service. This identity shapes the culture of our schools, how we teach, how we care for students, and how we work together as a community. We honour the legacy of those who came before us and continue to share the message of faith, hope, and love in all we do.

Are Catholic schools only for Catholic families?

No. Catholic schools warmly welcome all families who value a faith-based education. Whether you are Catholic, belong to another faith tradition, or have no religious background, you and your child are welcome in our school communities. All students are included in the full life of the school, including Religious Education and prayer experiences, and all families are respected, valued, and invited to take part in community life at a level that feels right for them.

What are Catholic schools expecting from families?

When families enrol in a Catholic school, they enter into a partnership that supports their child’s faith and life journey. Families support their child’s participation in school liturgies, retreats, and other moments of spiritual growth. For families of baptised children, this includes continuing their child’s sacramental journey. Above all, parents aspire to the values and worldview that shape Catholic education, one that forms the heart, mind, and spirit.

What if our family belongs to a different faith, or our child is not baptised?

That’s absolutely okay. We see enrolment as a privilege and a moment of welcome. Our schools honour each family’s story and beliefs. We do not seek to convert or impose our faith; instead, we offer a gentle invitation to explore the Catholic tradition through learning, reflection, and shared experiences. Students and families of all backgrounds are respected and included in the spiritual life of the school, in ways that are meaningful and appropriate to them.

What is the ultimate goal of Catholic education for our child?

Catholic education aims to nurture the whole person, spiritually, emotionally, socially, and intellectually. Our hope is that every student, through their time in our schools, will encounter Jesus, experience a sense of belonging, and come to know the fullness of life He offers. We strive to help each child grow into a person of goodness, truth, compassion, and purpose, equipped not only for success in the world, but also to make a meaningful difference within it.