The FCJ College Executive Team 2025: Director of Wellbeing Gemma Hunter, deputy principal learning and teaching Kirsty Renkin, deputy principal community Renae Hughes,principal Joseph Mount, director of learning and teaching Jordan Smith, director of learning diversity Susan Spelic and director of catholic identity Donna Willcock.
As the newly appointed Principal of FCJ College, Benalla, I am so proud to begin my leadership during our 125th anniversary; a time when we embrace our 2025 theme of Companionship.
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Since 1900, FCJ College has been more than just a place of education. It has been a community where relationships are nurtured, where diversity is respected, and where every individual is known, valued, and included. We continue to foster the values of the Faithful Companions of Jesus – the FCJs. The FCJ charism rests on the inclusive message of Jesus – one where compassion, forgiveness and love are essential for people to flourish; academically, spiritually, and personally.
Students engage in a number of fun learning opportunities.
Photo by
Cassandra Briggs
What began as a small, courageous initiative by the people of Benalla and the FCJ Sisters, has grown into a thriving Catholic secondary college serving students from Benalla, Euroa, Mansfield, and surrounding communities. Guided by the FCJ Characteristics of Companionship, Justice, Gentleness, Courage, and Confidence, we continue to honour the past while responding to the evolving needs of today’s learners. We welcome all families to our school and encourage everyone to see how we learn through our regular tours.
In 2025, FCJ College is proud to partner with Catholic Education Sandhurst through the Magnify initiative — a bold, evidence-based approach to teaching and learning designed to ensure every student can thrive. The Magnify program places students at the centre of everything we do. It focuses on literacy and numeracy, calm and inclusive classrooms, and instructional coaching that supports each teacher’s development. By using the latest neuroscience and structured teaching strategies, Magnify provides a consistent and inclusive learning experience across all year levels.
What began as a small, courageous initiative by the people of Benalla and the FCJ Sisters, has grown into a thriving Catholic secondary college.
Photo by
Cassandra Briggs
This aligns seamlessly with our values: creating learning spaces where every student feels safe, respected, and supported, and where teachers are empowered to make a real difference. Our shared commitment echoes the mantra of the program: “Every Student, Every Teacher, Every School, Every Day.”
These efforts are underscored by recent findings from the HILDA Survey conducted by The University of Melbourne, which highlights that students in Catholic schools report higher levels of life satisfaction, emotional wellbeing, and academic engagement. These outcomes reflect what we experience daily at FCJ College — a culture of belonging, compassion, and ambition that helps our young people grow into confident, capable, and kind members of society.
FCJ College, Benalla, is 125 years old.
Photo by
Cassandra Briggs
To honour our 125-year journey, we are hosting a series of celebration events in August 2025 including Founder's Day on August 15, the 125th Anniversary Gala Dinner on August 16 and a special Anniversary Mass on August 17. These events will provide opportunities for past and present students, families, and staff to reconnect, reflect, and celebrate our shared legacy of companionship and learning.
Looking ahead, FCJ College will continue to grow as a school that places students first — where relationships form the heart of learning, and where inclusion is more than a goal; it is a lived reality highlighted within our Identity Statement: FCJ College is an inclusive Catholic community that inspires companionship, courage and confidence, justice, and gentleness.
Principal Joseph Mount talks to students.
We invite all members of our extended community to join us in celebrating this milestone year. Together, let us walk forward in companionship, honouring the legacy of the past and building a future where every student has the opportunity to be seen, heard, and loved.
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