The Peer Bursary Gift continues the legacy of our founder, Edmund Rice, whose mission was to educate boys who could not otherwise afford schooling.

Traditionally, each leaving class has presented the College with a parting memento. Many of these gifts remain visible throughout the campus today, including the stained-glass window in the Veritas Centre and the wooden display cabinet in the Edmund Rice Administration Building.

These contributions serve as lasting reminders of each class’s connection to the College.

In 2017, the Leaving Class chose a different path – one that truly reflected the spirit of Edmund Rice. Rather than raising funds for a physical gift, the boys chose to provide something far more meaningful, the opportunity for another student to receive a life-changing education at Aquinas College.

Since then, each Leaving Class has funded a 50 percent bursary, enabling a student to complete Years 11 and 12 at Aquinas College.

There are many ways to contribute

• Each Leaving Class is encouraged to raise funds throughout the year through initiatives such as sausage sizzles, quiz nights and contributing leftover Ball funds. Creativity and initiative are encouraged to help maximise the impact of the Peer Bursary Gift.
• During Year 12, the College and Foundation write to each family via the Graduation Information Document, inviting a voluntary, tax-deductible contribution of $50 towards the Peer Bursary Gift.

Commemoration

A commemorative plaque recognising the generosity of the Class of 2026 Peer Bursary Gift will be commissioned and displayed alongside the existing plaques in the Heritage Room.

This plaque is presented to the Class of 2026 at the One Year Reunion, held in mid-2027.