In a landmark development for Marist education in Aotearoa - New Zealand, the Marist leadership has established Champagnat Marist Education Limited (CMEL), marking a strategic pivot in the governance and delivery of Champagnat Marist education across the country. The initiative, which culminated in its first formal meeting at the end of last year, represents both a response to contemporary challenges and an ambitious vision for the future of Catholic Champagnat Marist education in New Zealand.
A Timely Response to Modern Challenges
The formation of CMEL was the result of a four-year journey of careful deliberation and planning. It arose from a recognition that the traditional oversight model for schools, managed by the New Zealand Trust Board, needed to evolve to address modern educational challenges.
"We needed to have a group that would focus solely on the mission here in New Zealand, and the establishment of this proactive organisation marks a transformative step forward," explains Janne Pender, CMEL's inaugural Chair.
Janne brings impressive credentials to the role, having transformed Sacred Heart College from a struggling institution into one of New Zealand's most respected educational establishments.

“This initiative will strengthen and further unify key institutions, including Marcellin, Sacred Heart, and St Paul’s Colleges in Auckland, as well as the Marist Alternative Education initiative, the Sacred Heart College Hostel, and eight associated schools,” she adds. “It will also oversee new initiatives as the need is identified.”
The development of CMEL gained momentum with the support of Brothers in New Zealand, as well as Br Peter Carroll, the Star of the Sea Provincial. The strategic importance in navigating the evolving educational landscape in the country was acknowledged.
Scope and Structure
The new organisation will work with all Champagnat Marist schools on formation and assist the Proprietor boards of Marcellin, Sacred Heart, and St Paul’s colleges to develop and maintain their Catholic Champagnat Marist character in those schools.
“This isn’t just about existing structures,” explains Br Barry Burns, co-chair of Association of Champagnat Marists Aotearoa – NZ. “A formal organisation comprising the larger Marist family – the Association of Champagnat Marists – is also being formed under this initiative."
It will provide the Brothers with confidence that the work they have dedicated their lives to will not only continue but thrive in the years ahead.
Additionally, we will foster new initiatives and strengthen both national and international Marist cooperation. It’s a comprehensive approach to ensure that our Champagnat Way to Jesus remains deeply embedded in our schools and ministries.”
It will provide the Brothers with confidence that the work they have dedicated their lives to will not only continue but thrive in the years ahead, he adds.

Addressing Core Challenges
One of the key challenges CMEL aims to address is what the “diminishing strength of Catholicity” in schools throughout the country. This issue presents a unique paradox - while Catholic schools in New Zealand, much like their Australian counterparts, remain in high demand, maintaining their core Catholic character in an increasingly secular society has become more difficult.
One of the key challenges CMEL aims to address is what the “diminishing strength of Catholicity” in schools throughout the country.
Adding to this challenge is the shrinking pool of qualified Catholic educators. Developing Catholic teachers and leaders has become an urgent priority in an environment where such individuals are becoming increasingly scarce. “Addressing this issue is vital to ensuring the Catholic ethos remains vibrant and deeply embedded within these schools, making it one of CMEL's biggest tasks and challenges,” adds Br Barry.
To tackle these issues, CMEL will also focus on establishing clear performance indicators, a task slated for upcoming strategic planning sessions with Br Peter Carroll in February.
Leadership and Vision
CMEL has recently appointed Justin Durling as its first CEO. “Justin is a New Zealander with extensive experience in Catholic education, having worked with Jesuit schools in England and played a key role in establishing a successful interfaith school in Malaysia. He brings invaluable expertise in maintaining religious character within diverse cultural contexts,” says Janne.
The establishment of CMEL represents a strategic response to the need to preserve and strengthen the Champagnat Marist character of education in New Zealand while adapting to the challenges of a modern, secular society.
Comments