Kildare Education Ministries
Kildare Education Ministries Limited (KEM) is the incorporated body established by Kildare Ministries to provide governance to the seven Catholic Colleges formerly conducted by the Victorian Province of the Brigidine Sisters. It operates under the jurisdiction of the Trustees of Kildare Ministries who have responsibilities for additional incorporated bodies conducting schools and community works.
The seven schools include:
- Clonard College, Geelong VIC
- Kilbreda College, Mentone VIC
- Kildare College, Adelaide SA
- Killester College, Springvale VIC
- Marian College, Ararat VIC
- Marian College, Sunshine West VIC
- St. Joseph's College, Echuca VIC.
Kildare Education Ministries (KEM) is dedicated to governing and conducting Catholic colleges in alignment with the teachings and mission of the Catholic Church, alongside an educational philosophy that reflects the core values of Kildare Ministries. Our primary responsibility is to provide a high-quality Catholic education to all students under our stewardship, fostering an environment that honors the dignity of every individual and supports their holistic development. We are committed to creating an educational milieu that is inclusive and broad-based, promoting not only intellectual, personal, and spiritual growth but also social responsibility and a sense of justice within the community.
KEM actively engages in the promotion and carrying out of religious, charitable, and apostolic endeavors associated with Catholic education. We aim to deliver educational experiences within a Christian context that uphold the highest standards of teaching and learning. This commitment extends to creating a supportive environment for all staff, enabling them to embody the vision, mission, and values of Kildare Education Ministries. We strongly encourage ongoing professional development through comprehensive training and appraisal programs, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and collaboration.
The responsibilities of the KEM Board encompass a wide range of governance functions, including the oversight of key college operations and strategic initiatives. The Board guides the vision and mission while ensuring compliance with statutory requirements and child safety protocols. Additionally, KEM assumes the role of employer for all staff within our colleges, supporting and empowering Principals in their decision-making processes, especially in serious employment matters.
In the realm of policy governance, KEM is tasked with the continual review, development, and approval of policies that pertain to the operational and educational integrity of our institutions. The Board plays a crucial role in the appointment of Principals, providing guidance and oversight throughout the selection process to ensure that leadership excellence is maintained. Furthermore, KEM oversees financial stewardship, approving budgetary recommendations, monitoring the financial health of colleges, and ensuring that robust risk management practices are established and maintained.
Moreover, KEM is committed to fostering collaboration between educational stakeholders, particularly parents and staff, to enhance the support provided to our students. The establishment of Stewardship Councils further facilitates this collaboration, as the Board appoints and monitors these councils to ensure effective stewardship practices within each college.
In summary, Kildare Education Ministries strives to fulfill its mission through a comprehensive framework of governance, dedicated to delivering exceptional Catholic education, nurturing the growth of individuals within a supportive community, and upholding our commitment to the values inherent in Catholic teaching.