Blessing the site of our
18th AngliSchool
The Revd Peter Laurence OAM, Chief Executive Officer
What an absolute joy it was to gather on a beautiful, sunny morning in Ballarat in September to bless the site that will become home to Ascension Anglican School.
For those of us who have watched AngliSchools grow from its beginnings here in Western Australia, this was a significant moment. Ascension will be our 18th AngliSchool and will open in 2029 for students from Prep to Year 6. Year 7 will follow in 2030, with the School growing to Prep to Year 12 by 2035.
The service was led by the Bishop of Ballarat, The Rt Revd Garry Weatherill, and began with a lovely Welcome to Country by Wadawurrung Elder Aunty Kellie Phillips.
Students from Cobram Anglican Grammar School performed during the service and did a wonderful job. Their involvement was particularly meaningful. Long before the first Ascension students walk through the gates, the School is already being welcomed and supported by others within the AngliSchools family.
I was delighted to be joined by Archbishop Kay Goldsworthy AO in her capacity as Visitor to AngliSchools. She delivered a superb homily focussing on the Ascension and how this great Christian festival provides such a strong focus for an Anglican school.
It was also wonderful to be joined by the four principals of our Victorian and New South Wales AngliSchools, as well as local and state representatives. How very special to be welcomed to Ballarat by Ballarat Grammar Principal Mr Adam Heath, an Anglican school which has served Ballarat and surrounds in some form since 1876.
The service concluded with the traditional turning of the sod, a simple but important act that marks the beginning of the School’s journey.
The name Ascension was carefully chosen. In the Christian story, the Ascension speaks of hope, promise and what lies ahead. It is also a name that suggests growth and possibility, which is exactly what we want for the young people who will one day attend the School.
Ascension Anglican School will be a place where students are known, valued and encouraged to develop their gifts. The AngliSchools FIRE values of Faith, Inclusion, Respect and Excellence will shape the School from its earliest days and guide its approach to learning, a culture, and community life.
Later that day, we held two public information sessions. These gave local families and community members an opportunity to hear more about our plans, ask questions and meet some of the people involved.
The level of interest was most encouraging. Ballarat’s western corridor is growing quickly, and families are looking for quality and fee accessible schooling options close to home. It was good to begin those conversations and hear what local people hope to see in their new school.
There is, of course, much work ahead. Planning and preliminary site-works are expected to progress during 2027, with construction anticipated to commence in early 2028, subject to approvals.
We give thanks to God and ask God’s blessing on the site and all those who will learn, work and gather there in the years to come.