How Doveton College began

In 2009 the philanthropic organisation The Colman Foundation committed to becoming directly involved in the education of children in an area with a high migrant and refugee population. It approached the Victorian government.

At that time, the government was implementing a state wide reform program to revitalise schooling in disadvantaged areas of Victoria. As part of the regeneration program, 5 schools were closed and one school Doveton College was created. It was to become more than a stand alone school through the vision and financial backing of the Colman Foundation.

Why our College is a pioneer

The state government, the Colman Foundation and the federal government agreed to establish a unique partnership to plan, build and operate the new facility, Doveton College. It is the first government school partnership of its kind in Australia.

The Colman Foundation donated $1.8 million to the construction of the school and Early Learning Centre, on top of the state and federal governments’ $36 million contribution.

The Foundation also pledged a 10 year annual funding support for programs and community facilities at the College.

A helping hand

The Colman Foundation’s financial contribution does not replace government funding for the College. It is extra money that gives the College flexibility to strengthen services, develop innovative new programs for children and families and support the community.

The State Government signed a Memorandum of Understanding and a Deed of Agreement with the Colman Foundation to secure the funding partnership.

The College’s funding arrangement allows it to partner with other non-profit agencies and philanthropic foundations to provide services to families and the community on-site.

More than a school

The College has an Early Learning Centre and Prep-Year 9 school at its centre, with wrap-around health, family and children’s services on site.  It is Australia’s first fully integrated education service, offering child and family services.

Advantages of an integrated service model

  • Creates strong links between early years services and school

  • Better collaboration and co-ordination between service agencies

  • Families have quicker, more efficient access to services

  • Clearer referral pathways for families and service agencies

  • Enables on-going intensive support for vulnerable families

  • Early intervention improves child and family health

  • Builds neighbourhood capacity through volunteerism, community hub structure and programs

  • Increased adult presence at the College encourages parental involvement in school