Our College

FCJ College is a Year 7–12 coeducational Catholic College in Benalla. It was established in 1900 by the French order of the Faithful Companions of Jesus (FCJ Society). Marie Madeleine d’Houët, the foundress of the Society, established schools to provide ‘a solidly Christian education’ for young people from all classes of society (Memoirs).

Today, over 470 students are challenged to achieve their full potential and experience a very positive learning environment. There are many opportunities available at FCJ College – academic achievement is promoted and participation in extra-curricular activities is strongly encouraged. Pathways are available in combinations to provide the opportunity for each individual student to achieve to their utmost ability.

When FCJ College Benalla, known then as the Convent of Our Lady of the Angels, commenced in 1900, it was in response to an invitation from the Parish Priest, Dean Davy. The Society of Faithful Companions of Jesus (FCJ Society) accepted the invitation to be pioneers in providing Catholic education in Benalla. Consequently, on 14 August 1900, Mother Xavier Macdonald, the Provincial and six sisters arrived in Benalla. Three sisters took charge of the parish school, St Joseph’s, on 16 August. There were 120 boys and girls. The Convent School which was to cater for both primary and secondary students, opened on 20 August with 16 girls.

In time, this grew in number as the College enrolled both day and boarding students, to assist Catholic families in providing a Catholic education in the North-East region of Victoria. The College was made a coeducational College and renamed FCJ College Benalla in 1960. The boarding school closed in 1981.