St. Columba's College is a private, all-female Roman Catholic secondary school in the Melbourne suburb of Essendon.HistoryAfter taking responsibility for St Monica's School in Moonee Ponds in 1896, Mother Ursula Bruton purchased the property at 139 Buckley Street to provide secondary education for the girls from St Monica's. She believed that this was needed so that young women could take their rightful place in society. Mother Ursula was the first Principal and named the school St Columba's. Columba was an Irish saint and a great scholar, who lived in the sixth century. The College motto chosen was Fidelis et Fortis meaning “faithful and strong,” and the shield with its crown and dove reflected the Sisters of Charity's own crest and Columba (Columcille meaning dove). The first classes were held on 13 July 1897 for 47 students. The initial educational program provided a broad and liberal education for young women and in 1900 presented its first candidates for Matriculation. The school has a proud history of excellence in education and the history books indicate that music, languages and the visual arts have always been central in the curriculum.CommunitySt Columba's community is large and diverse. The school has evolved throughout its history into a living and working community where the many activities offered connect all members and create a sense of belonging. The College staff work in partnership with students and their parents to provide valuable learning and life experiences. St Columba's aims to educate young women to be compassionate and confident, and who are well equipped to face the challenges of the 21st Century. Parents are invited to become involved in the community. They are part of the consultation process on future directions of the school, attend organised functions and activities, or participate in the formal parent groups that support the work of the school. These are the Parents and Friends and Ladies Auxiliary, The Columbines who support the Dance Program and the Friends of Music (FOM). Students are provided with a wide range of out-of-classroom activities which link them with their peers, teachers, their own and other parents. Leadership programs provide opportunities for enhancing school life, participating in decision making, supporting peers and organising activities. Relationships of respect are fostered, as is a social responsibility - in the local, national and international community.
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