In the last decade Aquinas College has moved rapidly into a period of consolidation and development. New buildings and renovations have been undertaken as the College catered for a wider curriculum for both boys and girls. Student numbers grew significantly during this period. In this past year, 2013, another major building program was launched to prepare for the arrival of Year 7 students in 2015, which will further increase student numbers.

 The usual year group structure for home or pastoral groups of students shifted to a Vertical Pastoral Care (VPC) program, made up of around 25 students from years 8-12, belonging to one of the four houses. Older students provide leadership and support to younger students. Students develop a strong sense of their Pastoral Care group, house and home teacher over their five years at the College. Another major development during this time was the shift from students using desktop computers to one-to-one portable MacBooks.  In 2013 all students now use their own Macbook.

In 2004, Principal Sr. Nancy Freddi RSM completed her final year at Aquinas College. She wrote “I have seen young people expanding the horizons, seeing things in new ways, learning new perspectives and gaining an increased understanding of themselves and others as they have matured.”  Sister Nancy led the College during  the College’s 40th Anniversary celebrations.

Mrs Maryanne Finder became the new Aquinas  College Principal in 2005. One of her favourite and memorable slogans has been:  “ Happy + Safe = Quality Learning”. Fr. Peter Dillon arrived as the new Parish Priest in from 2006 to 2013.  World Youth Day 2008 in Sydney was a memorable event, for staff and senior students as was the pilgrimage of the World Youth Day Cross in 2007. During her time as Principal Mrs Finder has actively promoted student immersion experiences overseas, for example to Indonesia and Japan.

On November 17 1964 the Foundation Stone for Aquinas College was laid, and 50 years later, in November 2013, this moment was remembered in an informal ceremony in front of the Foundation Stone,  which is currently located  outside the College Library.

Over the last decade, Aquinas College has evolved into a quality contemporary coeducational Catholic College.  It has retained much of its original vision yet has also adapted to the times as it faces the challenges of today.  As it continues to build on the riches of the past in its people, educational and extra curricular achievements, its history and its faith as expressed in the College motto “Pro Deo”, the future of Aquinas College is one of confidence and hope.

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