Bemin Secondary College opened in 2024, in the heart of one of Victoria’s fastest growing and most culturally diverse areas. Two years on, the dual-campus Truganina school has gained a shining reputation for its passionate workforce, motivated students and strong, unified school culture.
Foundation principal Joanne Camozzato says students and families were excited to have a secondary school to attend in their own suburb. She pointed to the many milestones that helped shape the school’s identity: the first whole-school assembly, athletics carnival, Year 10 Formal, the first student leadership team, and, in coming years, the school’s first Year 12 cohort.
'There is a great sense of achievement to see families attend these events,' Joanne says.
Joanne and her leadership team have embraced the challenge of staffing 2 new—and growing—campuses in Melbourne’s west. 'We have continued to employ the teachers who we feel best suit our school community and we have complemented this by considering many international teachers,' she says. 'Consequently, our school staff are as culturally diverse as our students.'
Joanne says the school’s diversity is central to its mission statement. She reinforces this with a clear and powerful message to students: 'Our individual cultures are our strength—but when we are at school, we are one school culture.'
This balance - celebrating identity while fostering unity - creates an environment where students feel seen, respected and supported. It also strengthens student outcomes by promoting a sense of belonging, mutual respect and shared responsibility, particularly during the critical secondary school years.
Joanne is clear there is no single formula for building a strong school community. 'All communities are unique,' she says. 'It’s important to listen, adapt and build a shared narrative—rather than trying to impose a story you think is important.'
As student numbers at Bemin Secondary College continue to grow, facilities and community connections, new challenges and opportunities will emerge. With new families, ideas and experiences joining the school each year, the school is committed to fostering a strong, inclusive community - one valuing participation, celebrating diversity and supporting the achievement, creativity and wellbeing of every student.
Updated