Join Now Renew

About AJASS

 

AJASS stands for the Association of Josephite Affiliated Secondary Schools. It is an independent association formed in 2006, bringing together secondary schools across Australia and New Zealand that are inspired by the charism and vision of St Mary of the Cross MacKillop and Julian Tenison Woods, founders of the Sisters of St Joseph of the Sacred Heart (often called the Josephites or "Joeys").

The Association aims to embrace, extend, strengthen and perpetuate the charism of St Mary of the Cross MacKillop in schools which identify with her vision and spirit. By sharing ideas, events, and gatherings, schools that are part of the Association endeavour to develop and grow in the Josephite spirit. AJASS holds regular gatherings and meetings and an annual conference as well as maintaining contact through interschool activities and support.

A structure Joseph Julian and Mary MacKillop (JJAMM) provides leadership training for the student leaders in the AJASS schools to help develop the MacKillop spirit in these young people. In their own schools they hold a JJAMM week where they share the agreed focus with the whole school.

The figures in the icon reflect the form of the Josephite symbol. The 3 figures represent the schools and Josephites working together to support the students (centre figure).

These groups join together to support the messages of Christ (symbolised by the crucifix).

The colours chosen stand for the black and brown Josephite communities and blue to show how this relationship works in harmony

 

Membership and Scope

  • Current Membership: AJASS includes 41 Josephite-affiliated secondary schools from across Australia and New Zealand, as well as a few colleges directly owned and operated by the Sisters of St Joseph.
     
  • Core Purpose: The association aims to embrace, extend, strengthen, and perpetuate the Josephite charism in schools that identify with the vision and spirit of Mary MacKillop.

Activities and Initiatives

  • Regular Gatherings: AJASS holds regular meetings, annual conferences, and interschool activities to foster collaboration and shared growth.
     
  • Student Leadership: The "Joseph Julian and Mary MacKillop" (JJAMM) structure provides leadership training for student leaders, helping to develop the MacKillop spirit among young people. Member schools hold a JJAMM week to share the agreed focus with the entire school community.
     
  • Faith Formation: Activities include pilgrimages to significant sites in the lives of Mary MacKillop and Julian Tenison Woods, collaborative justice projects, and interstate school visits.
     
  • Community and Support: The association encourages a supportive, faith-based environment, emphasising Gospel values, participation, and belonging.

Symbolism and Identity

  • Symbol: The AJASS icon features three figures representing schools and Josephites working together to support students, with the crucifix symbolising the messages of Christ. The colors (black, brown, and blue) reflect the Josephite communities and the harmony of their relationships.
     
  • Shared Ethos: Schools in AJASS are committed to Catholic education, student wellbeing, and preparing students to be caring citizens in the world.

Additional Notes

  • Networking: AJASS enables schools to connect with each other and with the broader Josephite network, sharing ideas and best practices.
     
  • Partnerships: Member schools often partner with local, state, national, and international organizations to further their educational mission.


In summary, AJASS is a dynamic network of secondary schools united by the Josephite tradition, dedicated to nurturing the spirit of Mary MacKillop and Julian Tenison Woods in their students and communities.