College History
Our Story: A Vision of Faith and Excellence
At St Mary and St Mina’s College, our journey began with a bold vision - to establish a second Coptic Orthodox school in Sydney that would nurture young minds and hearts through a rich blend of academic excellence and Christian faith.
A Legacy Rooted in Purpose
- 1998: Inspired by a deep commitment to education and faith, Fr Samuel and Fr Mikhail presented a proposal to His Holiness Pope Shenouda III to establish a new Coptic Orthodox College in Sydney. His Holiness warmly endorsed the vision, requesting further details to bring the dream to life.
- Later that year, His Grace Bishop Paula, acting on behalf of His Holiness, appointed Fr Mikhail Mikhail as the College’s founding Director and established the inaugural College Board, laying the foundation for what would become a thriving educational community.
From Modest Beginnings to a Flourishing Future
- February 15, 1999: The College opened its doors in Bexley with 80 students across four classes (Kindergarten to Year 3), supported by a small but dedicated team of educators and staff.
- March 1, 1999: The College was officially opened by His Grace Bishop Paula, in the presence of civic leaders and community guests - a moment of celebration and promise.
- 2004–2005: The College expanded to include a dedicated High School campus in Rockdale, welcoming secondary students and broadening our academic offering.
- 2006–2008: With the blessing of His Holiness Pope Shenouda, the College extended its vision to include senior secondary education (Years 11 and 12) and commenced construction of a new Primary building.
- 2009–2012: Our first Year 12 graduates achieved outstanding academic results, consistently ranking among the top schools in NSW - a testament to the College’s commitment to excellence in teaching and learning.
Faith in Action, Learning for Life
At St Mary and St Mina’s, education is more than academic achievement - it is the formation of the whole person. Our students are encouraged to believe in their God-given potential, to strive for excellence and to walk confidently in faith.
- Christian values are woven into every aspect of College life, from daily prayer and weekly liturgies in our Cathedral, to service initiatives that extend beyond the classroom.
- Students actively participate in outreach programs — from supporting a Christian school in Uganda and The Philippines through fundraising and letter-writing, to visiting local nursing homes and offering companionship to the elderly.
- These experiences cultivate empathy, gratitude, and a deep understanding of what it means to live out one’s faith in today’s world.
A Place of Possibility and Purpose
Our cocurricular programs are designed to enrich student life and inspire personal growth. Whether in the arts, sport, leadership or service, every opportunity is shaped by the promise of Jeremiah 29:11:
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”
At St Mary and St Mina’s Coptic Orthodox College, we are proud to partner with families who seek more than just a school - who seek a community where their children are known, challenged and inspired to become the best version of themselves.
