Our History & Vision
The Islamic Schools of Victoria (Werribee College) Inc., established in June 1986 by founder Mr. Omar Hallak, began with 25 students, driven by the vision of providing education in an Islamic environment. Over 50 acres of land were acquired in Sayers Road, Truganina, where the College has since grown to offer education from Preparatory to VCE.
In 2009, a Masjid was built on campus, funded entirely by community donations at a cost of approximately $4.5 million. It serves as a central space for daily prayers, Islamic events, and spiritual development.
The College expanded further with the establishment of a horticultural and agricultural RTO-accredited campus in Tarneit, providing nationally recognised training. In 2008, a sister school, Al-Taqwa College YIISI Sentul Campus, opened in Indonesia, offering the Australian curriculum and VCE. An annual student exchange program for Years 9 and 10 promotes cultural understanding and prepares students to become confident, globally minded young leaders.
Vision
Al-Taqwa College will provide education opportunities to students in a caring, safe and healthy learning environment, which promotes quality education, and Islamic values and beliefs. Students are nurtured to be lifelong learners and encouraged to be proud Australian Muslim citizens of tomorrow.
- The richness of the Islamic tradition, values and teachings will guide the direction and operation of the College within the Australian context and law.
- In accordance with the Islamic concept of justice – every individual in the school will be treated fairly with no distinction of color, race, religion or gender.
- We will respect and protect the rights of students – to be heard and to express themselves, to protection of their physical well-being and their dignity, and most importantly, their right to quality education that will prepare them for the future.
- Young people are active learners and will be encouraged to strive to do their best to achieve their full potential.
- We will deliver quality education grounded on Islamic principles and values, which will be affordable and accessible to any families who share and believe in these same values and principles.
- We will ensure the holistic development of students by delivering a well-balanced, experientially rich and diverse curriculum that respects learners as individuals. At the same time cultivating their appreciation and sense of responsibility as a part of the larger community in line with the Islamic concept of the Ummah.
- We will promote and implement the restorative approach to student’s wellbeing and management.
Objectives
Stemming from the school’s commitment in achieving excellence within an inclusive educational framework that is grounded on Islamic values and teachings, the College will:
- Create a school environment that instills in students the love and obedience to Allah (swt) in accordance with the teachings of the Holy Al-Quran and the sayings and deeds of the Prophet Muhammad (saw) the Sunnah.
- Provide quality and a holistic education that will develop students’ talents and capabilities to their full potential whilst meeting the aspirations and needs of the College’s Islamic community. This holistic education will ensure an all round development of students physically, mentally, socially and spiritually, guided by Islamic principles and teachings, and cultivating an understanding and appreciation of our Islamic cultural heritage.
- Produce graduates who are proud of their identity as Australian Muslims while retaining respect and appreciation of the Aboriginal cultural traditions and the diversity of Australian ethnic cultural groups.
- Develop students who are competent, adaptable and resilient life long learners with an appreciation of the nature and place of work in our society, opportunities to develop good work practices, and a respect for the rights of others in the work place.