History & Heritage
Assumption College has a proud and storied history spanning more than 130 years. Built on strong Marist foundations, the College’s story began in 1893 when the Marist Brothers were invited to Kilmore to establish a primary school for local boys. This values-led vision set the tone for what would become one of regional Victoria’s most significant Catholic educational communities.
The school’s first site was located near what is now Kilmore District Hospital. As the school grew, the Marist Brothers relocated to the former Sisters of Mercy convent on Sutherland Street, a striking red-brick building constructed in 1876 beside Saint Patrick’s Catholic Church. Today, this historic property is known as Shandon House and remains a cherished feature of the College grounds.
By the turn of the century, the Catholic educational needs of rural families from northern Victoria and southern New South Wales were becoming increasingly evident. In response, the College welcomed its first boarding student in 1901. Just a few years later, in 1906, the school was officially registered and issued a Certificate of Registration of a School, formally adopting the name Assumption College.
Over the decades that followed, demand for boys’ boarding education continued to rise, supported by a smaller day school catering to local families. A key milestone came in 1971, when the first two girls were enrolled in the day school. This important step paved the way for Assumption College to become a fully co-educational day school in 1985–86 and later to welcome girls into its boarding residences in 1995–96.
As Kilmore and its surrounding towns expanded and more commuter families settled in Mitchell Shire, the College experienced significant growth in day student enrolments. Since the mid-1980s, the number of day students has surpassed those in boarding, reflecting the changing demographics of the region.
Throughout this period of growth, Assumption College has continued to evolve, innovate and invest. The College has become a place of dynamic opportunity across all realms – academic, athletic, creative and spiritual – while staying true to the Marist values that shaped its beginnings.
Today, Assumption College is a vibrant, inclusive and welcoming co-educational Catholic day school, educating more than 1,500 students from Years 7–12. Our boutique boarding residences are home to 72 boys and girls from across Australia, continuing the College’s long tradition of supporting regional and rural families.
