FAITH DEVELOPMENT
As a Catholic school, Avila is responsible for nurturing Christian values within its students. Christianity is the very foundation of what we aspire to, not merely a component.
Our students and staff share a strong sense of Christian community which is underpinned by the core values of respect, honesty, support, forgiveness, trust and justice.
These values are part of the everyday fabric of Avila. They are fundamental to the way we teach, relate to one another, and build relationships with the wider world. They are the basis of a constructive behaviour policy which reinforces a cohesive, caring Christian environment.
We are very much a family that works together, prays together, celebrates together and reaches out to others in the wider community. As a result, students enjoy a sense of belonging which is treasured by many in adulthood and maintained through ongoing contact with the College, staff and former collegians.
Our patroness, St Teresa of Avila, is an excellent role model in our mission to encourage students to be Christ-centred in their journey to adulthood. St Teresa is a source of inspiration to students and staff because of her deep commitment to prayer, her determination to better her world, and her vision of Christian community.
At Avila, our sense of community, and belonging, is strengthened and enriched by our liturgical and sacramental life through which we celebrate moments of joy and gain comfort in times of grief.
Our Religious Education Program nurtures faith and provides knowledge. Students are challenged to reflect on and explore their Christianity, both philosophically and actively, through the classroom program, Christian Living Days and camps, and community-based projects.
A sense of community beyond the school environment is encouraged through a number of programs and extra curricular activities. At Avila, community service is an important aspect of living out our Christian values. All students are encouraged to support overseas mission work in the Philippines, India and Africa. At a local level students support Saint Vincent de Paul food drives in winter and at Christmas. From years 9 to 12, opportunities are available for students to engage in service to organisations in their local communities.
