Exciting new signage has recently been installed around the College, adding a touch of history and recognition. Students and staff may have noticed and read through, the building recognition signs that have appeared, each highlighting important figures from our College's history.
Individuals such as Fr. Joseph Kealy, Sr. Honor Mary Stewart, FCJ Marie Madeleine de Bonnault d’Hoüet, William Joseph Chaminade, and Stella Maris College for girls each form part of our rich history. The College has honoured these significant figures and institutions by naming buildings after them, encouraging our community to learn about their impact on our College.
The Kealy Centre
The Kealy Centre, completed in 1988, stands as a tribute to Fr. Joseph Kealy, a pivotal figure in the growth of Catholic Education in Frankston. Appointed Parish Priest of Frankston in 1951, Fr. Kealy acquired land in Seaford, where he established St. Anne’s Catholic Church and Primary School. His vision expanded with the opening of St. Francis Xavier Primary School and the construction of St. John the Evangelist Church and Primary School. Fr. Kealy’s leadership laid the foundation for what would become John Paul College, merging Marianist College and Stella Maris College in 1979. His legacy of foresight and dedication continues to shape our community.
Stella Maris
Stella Maris College, Latin for 'Star of the Sea,' was the first school on our McMahon’s Road site, founded in 1968 by the Faithful Companions of Jesus (FCJs). Originally housed in a former clubhouse, the school grew rapidly under the guidance of Sr. Honor Mary Stewart FCJ. Known for its welcoming atmosphere and emphasis on individual talents, Stella Maris merged with Marinist College in 1979 to form John Paul College. The anchor symbolizes hope, reflecting the school’s mission to guide students towards their academic and spiritual potential.
Stewart Centre
Dedicated to Sr. Honor Mary Stewart FCJ, the Stewart Centre opened in 2007 and was rebuilt in 2017 to meet evolving educational needs. Sr. Stewart’s leadership at Stella Maris College fostered a supportive and inclusive environment, nurturing both staff and students. Her visionary approach and dedication to Catholic education in Frankston laid strong foundations for the future of John Paul College.
FCJ Learning and Teaching Centre
Founded by Marie Madeleine de Bonnault d’Hoüet in 1820, the Faithful Companions of Jesus (FCJ) have played a crucial role in education worldwide. Arriving in Australia in 1882, the FCJ Sisters established schools that continue to embody their dedication to learning and faith. Stella Maris College, led by the FCJs since its inception, merged with Marinist College to become John Paul College, honoring a legacy of educational excellence and spiritual guidance.
The Chaminade Centre
The Chaminade Centre at John Paul College is named after Blessed William Joseph Chaminade, a devout priest born in 1761 in France. His life was marked by unwavering dedication to God and the Catholic Church, especially during the turbulent era of the French Revolution. Despite grave dangers, Chaminade clandestinely continued his ministry, risking his life to administer sacraments to his people.
Exiled to Spain for safety, Chaminade remained steadfast in his devotion to Mary, founding the Society of Mary (Marianists) in 1817 to revitalize faith and spirituality in post-revolutionary France. His efforts were recognized centuries later when he was beatified by Pope John Paul II in 2000.
The emblem of Mary, symbolizing hope and faith, has been integral to the history of John Paul College, originating with the Marianists Boys’ College in 1973. This institution later merged with Stella Maris Girls College to form John Paul College, which proudly honors Chaminade with one of its four houses.
The Chaminade Centre serves as a lasting tribute to his enduring legacy of faith, service, and resilience, inspiring the College community to uphold these values in their daily lives.