CARDIJN COLLEGE
Welcome to Cardijn College
A vibrant and inclusive learning community inspired by our dual-charisms of Joseph Cardijn and St Marcellin Champagnat. Situated in the Southern Vales of Adelaide, we are dedicated to fostering the holistic development of our students through a comprehensive educational approach that combines academic excellence, spiritual growth, and social justice.
Education in the Marist tradition
Cardijn College offers an education that is inspired by St Marcellin Champagnat, who, when training his young brothers to be educators of youth, stressed to them that “to educate a child, first you must love them, and love them all equally”.
This approach is shaped by the five pillars of the Marist ethos: Presence, Simplicity, Family Spirit, Love of Work and In the Way of Mary.
Presence
Marist education emphasises the importance of being present to others, fostering relationships based on care, respect, and compassion. It involves actively engaging with students and colleagues, creating a supportive environment where everyone feels valued and heard. This presence is not just physical but also emotional and spiritual, reflecting a commitment to nurturing the whole person.
Simplicity
At the heart of Marist spirituality is simplicity, which calls for authenticity and humility in all actions. This characteristic encourages a focus on the essential, avoiding unnecessary complexities and distractions. It promotes an honest and straightforward approach to life and learning, allowing individuals to connect deeply with others and with their own inner values.
Family Spirit
Marist communities are known for their strong sense of family spirit, where relationships are marked by mutual respect, trust, and support. This characteristic fosters a sense of belonging and solidarity, encouraging collaboration and teamwork. In a Marist setting, everyone is invited to contribute to the communal well-being, much like members of a close-knit family.
Love of Work
Marist education instills a love of work, emphasising dedication, perseverance, and the pursuit of excellence. This characteristic encourages individuals to approach their tasks with enthusiasm and a strong work ethic, recognising the dignity and value of labour. It promotes the idea that through hard work and commitment, one can achieve personal growth and contribute positively to society.
In the Way of Mary
Inspired by the example of Mary, the mother of Jesus, Marists strive to embody her virtues of humility, compassion, and faithfulness. This characteristic encourages a gentle and nurturing approach to education and relationships, aiming to reflect Mary’s loving presence in daily life. It involves a deep trust in God and a commitment to serving others with a kind and open heart.
ABOUT CARDIJN COLLEGE
Reception to Year 12
Cardijn College is an R-12 co-educational Catholic school grounded in the Marist tradition and inspired by the dual charisms of our patrons, Joseph Cardijn and St. Marcellin Champagnat. Since our founding in 1984, we have been dedicated to educating and inspiring students in the Southern Vales region of Adelaide. Over four decades, Cardijn has grown to encompass three distinct campuses, each offering specialised educational experiences.
LATEST NEWS & EVENTS
Cardijn
Connect
A source of news and information for the Cardijn community. The blog will be published every Thursday during the school term with past editions always accessible from the menu.
Introducing Marian West
Towards 2027… Our Cardijn Way
Our Cardijn Way fosters a culture of belonging and aspiration. We work in partnership to encourage, enable, and support students, families, and staff to live faithfully and with integrity.
We do this in the context of three unique campuses:
- Marian (Years 7 – 12, Noarlunga Downs)
- Marcellin (Trade Training Years 10 – 12 and Apprentices, Christie Downs)
- Galilee (Reception – Year 9, Aldinga)
Cardijn offers multiple, inclusive and diverse pathways in alignment with a foundational tenet that there is Unity in Diversity!
CARDIJN COLLEGE
Sports
Academies
Our Sports Academies have been established to assist students to achieve the highest levels of performance in their chosen sport, plus improve and develop their emotional and social health and wellbeing.
CARDIJN COLLEGE
Music
Programs
Our music curriculum is multi-faceted, catering for a diverse range of interests and abilities. The Music Advanced program offers students the opportunity to continue developing their skills in performance and musicianship.
R – 9
GALILEE
ALDINGA
At Cardijn College Galilee in Aldinga, we offer education from Reception to Year 9, creating a nurturing environment where each student feels a unique sense of belonging. This campus is known for its focus on ecological awareness and community involvement.
7 – 12
MARIAN
NOARLUNGA DOWNS
Cardijn College Marian, located in Noarlunga Downs, educates students from Years 7 to 12. It is celebrated for its comprehensive curriculum and vibrant extra-curricular program that caters to a diverse student body, providing varied learning pathways that meet individual needs and aspirations.
10 – 12
MARCELLIN
CHRISTIE DOWNS
Cardijn College Marcellin in Christie Downs is focused on providing extensive vocational education and training opportunities for students in Years 10 to 12 and beyond. Our strong industry partnerships help extend relationships into our students’ future careers, offering real-world experiences that are second to none.