Situated east of Adelaide at Kensington, Mary MacKillop College was established by the Sisters of St Joseph to provide an excellent, yet affordable education for girls. The school is named after Blessed Mary MacKillop who devoted her life to the people of Australia through founding, with Julian Tenison Woods, an order of religious sisters who would educate the scattered and isolated "children of the bush" and city children from working families. From 1872, six years after the founding of the order, this work has continued at Kensington.

Out of very humble beginnings at Penola in the South-East of South Australia a network of Josephite schools has evolved with the distinctively Australian characteristics of welcoming all and giving everyone the opportunity for success. Since the opening of the first school at Kensington the Sisters of St Joseph have educated thousands of young people at various sites in the area.

The present college has grown from the original cottage school in the grounds of the convent across the road to the present comprehensive secondary school. The physical growth of the school is a tribute to the work of the Sisters of Saint Joseph and their loyal helpers, parents and teachers.

At Mary MacKillop College we strive to offer an education to girls that is characterised by openness, flexibility, creativity and critical analysis. Freedom of action, a joy and generosity of spirit is evident in this all-girls’ school. Excellence is promoted through a lived belief in the dignity and potential of each individual. Discipline policies focus, therefore, on pastoral care and self-discipline.

We welcome students from a variety of social and ethnic backgrounds. This enriches the life of the school and broadens the experience of our students. Our school programs foster the development of faith-filled, successful, compassionate and articulate young women.

Our past students, who meet on a regular basis, are living examples of the excellent education they have received – academically, socially and spiritually – while at Mary MacKillop College. They are to be found in all fields of scholarship and endeavour.

Mary MacKillop College encourages and celebrates:
  • Academic excellence
  • The participation of students in the life of the school and the wider community
  • An enriching and diverse environment
  • Care for the needy

    • Ours is a community of committed, friendly staff and students. In this new millenium, we are confident that we can continue to raise the aspirations of girls and enhance their capacity to be most truly themselves.

    We give girls opportunities for the future.