From next year, Champagnat Catholic College Pagewood will take a new name – Corpus Christi College Maroubra – as part of its transformation to a co-educational years 7-12 college.
The college will welcome its first girls to Year 7 in 2023.
To support the increase in students, the college is undergoing an extensive rebuild. This includes new state-of-the-art facilities, which will enhance contemporary learning, encourage collaboration, and allow for diverse subject choice.
“Every child will have the opportunity to develop their gifts and talents in state-of-the-art facilities and be part of the transformation of our College” – Craig Mooney, Principal
A proud Marist tradition
Executive Director of Sydney Catholic Schools, Tony Farley, said the college’s new name was a result of extensive consultation with the parish, school leadership and members of Sydney Catholic Schools’ executive team.
“We are excited to see the Champagnat community continue to evolve into a dynamic place of co-education,” Mr Farley said.
“Through this significant change the college will continue a strong faith commitment in the Marist tradition and commitment to a rigorous education.
“This is a foundation that encourages students to grow in faith and academically to become compassionate, capable future leaders in their communities.”
The co-ed journey
Champagnat – soon Corpus Christi College – principal Craig Mooney with students modelling the new uniforms.
College Principal Craig Mooney said many parents had expressed excitement at the ability to send their sons and daughters to the same secondary school.
“A great deal of work has been undertaken in preparation for the transition to co-education,” Mr Mooney said.
“In interviewing the boys and girls for the first two cohorts in 2023 and 2024, I am in no doubt they will enhance our community.”
Preparations for co-education at the school have included a modified curriculum with new sports and electives to appeal to all students.
Staff professional development and pastoral programs will also help current students adjust to the change.
The college’s new crest and uniforms will retain the existing school colours of black and gold.
A holistic approach to Catholic education in Sydney’s Eastern Suburbs
The broader Pagewood Matraville master plan also includes the amalgamation of St Agnes’ Catholic Primary School Matraville and Our Lady of the Annunciation Catholic Primary School Pagewood next year.
The new school will be known as Sacred Heart Catholic Primary School Matraville.
Champagnat will use the current OLA Pagewood buildings for classes as it continues its transformational building program.
This includes a new three-storey building with a resource centre, seminar rooms and group spaces. The plan also provides more outdoor space, a covered outdoor learning area, and new hall with two-full-size sports courts.
The community of schools will work closely together, providing a seamless transition between each stage of each student’s school journey.
