About MJC

The Jurd Way

The Jurd Way is designed to help students achieve their best by combining education with a strong focus on their wellbeing. We believe that when a person’s social and emotional needs are met, they can unlock their full potential. That’s why at MJC, we take a holistic approach, nurturing both student wellbeing and education to empower them to build resilience and make positive choices for their future.

Our trauma-informed practices ensure students receive the support they need to succeed. Casework is a key part of The Jurd Way, and students are actively required to participate to the best of their ability. Each student is paired with a dedicated caseworker who helps set personalised social and emotional goals, guiding them to take meaningful steps toward achieving those goals.

At MJC, students can complete the full RoSA (Record of School Achievement) program, with the option to continue to the HSC (Higher School Certificate; Non-ATAR pathway). For those who need extra support, our Lifeskills Programs provide additional assistance to help develop essential life skills, supporting overall wellbeing and success.

Our History

Doing things differently is in our DNA. The founder of MJC, Margaret Jurd was a visionary. She wanted to help disadvantaged and vulnerable young people through education and care. The first learning centre was established at a pub in Carrington in the 1980’s, an unconventional start rooted in egalitarianism.

What we do

MJC exists to engage young people facing challenges in education. We are an independent non-government secondary school of years 9-12. Originating as a ministry of the Uniting Church of Australia, we provide students with an alternative option for education in a holistic, caring and supportive environment.

Our Colleges

MJC currently has 2 campuses open. For more information on each, click the buttons below.

Shortland

Learn more about our Shortland Campus

Tuncurry

Learn more about our Tuncurry Campus

Beyond the classroom

At MJC, our vision is to create a caring, inclusive environment where every student is supported to reach their full potential. We focus on personal growth, emotional wellbeing, and life skills, offering tailored support to meet each student’s unique needs.
 
By fostering creativity and building confidence, we aim to make education a positive, empowering experience. Our goal is to help every young person feel motivated, equipped, and ready to succeed, both in school and in life beyond the classroom.

Our difference from other schools

At Margaret Jurd College, we believe every student deserves a supportive and nurturing learning environment. That’s why we keep class sizes small, with 12 to 15 students per class, allowing teachers to give each student the time and care they need. Whether it’s academic, emotional, or physical support, we ensure every student feels valued and understood.
 
We also focus on helping students who may have gaps in their education, providing the extra support they need to meet essential academic standards and move forward with confidence. Our classrooms are thoughtfully designed to create an inclusive space for all students. Whether they are on a Life Skills pathway or pursuing more advanced academic goals, each room is set up to meet their unique needs with flexibility and comfort.
 
With a range of resources and hands-on learning opportunities, the learning spaces encourage interaction and collaboration, making sure that every student feels engaged and part of a caring community.

Our Vision

Our vision is to set the international benchmark for re-engaging young people in education.

Our Mission

Our purpose is to empower personal growth.

Our Values

Seek first to understand

We encompass an empathetic nature in all that we do. Listening to others’ perspectives and views allows us to understand the why. We keep an open mind, and we are patient, creating a place of acceptance, where students can truly be themselves.

Better together

Diversity is key to our success. We empower personal growth for our students by working together collaboratively and harnessing individual strengths within our own team as well as working closely with parents. Education and wellbeing are both equally important, our unique combination of the two is how we help our students reach their full potential.

Think different

In order to achieve our vision, we require bold and unique ways of thinking. We aren’t afraid to try new things and learn from them. We bravely challenge the status quo, as role models for our students to help them confidently forge their own paths in life.

Governance + Leadership

Strategic Leadership of MJC

MJC operates under the guidance and values of the Uniting Church, which has played a pivotal role in shaping the college’s mission to provide inclusive, accessible education to young people in need. The college is overseen by a dedicated Board, which ensures that the school’s operations align with its mission and the broader goals of the Uniting Church. The Board is responsible for strategic direction, governance and ensuring that the values are at the heart of all MJC’s programs and initiatives. This strong connection to the Uniting Church and its guiding principles helps MJC create an environment where every student is valued and empowered to succeed.

Our staff

The people of MJC

At MJC, teachers create innovative and holistic programs to meet the unique needs of each student across all Key Learning Areas (KLAs). By tailoring lessons for different learning pathways, teachers ensure all students are appropriately challenged and supported. The casework team plays a vital role in student support, managing smaller caseloads to provide one-on-one guidance and connect students with necessary services, helping them emotionally regulate and stay engaged in their learning. Meanwhile, the Student Services team handles administrative tasks, supports students throughout the day, and ensures smooth operations, from enrolment to break times, helping students feel supported and cared for.

Donations

We are built on community support

MJC is fortunate to receive strong and consistent support from the community, which plays a vital role in the success of the college and its students. The community’s involvement ranges from partnerships with local businesses offering work experience and employment opportunities to individuals and organisations providing resources, mentorship and funding for programs. The close-knit support network fosters a sense of belonging and helps create pathways for students to succeed beyond the classroom.