Values And Expections

Avondale College welcomes applications from individuals regardless of race, gender, status or religious affiliation. Admission to, and continuation at, Avondale is dependent on evidence of good character, intellectual competence, support of the philosophy and mission of the College and a willingness to conform to College regulations.

Avondale College is owned and operated by the Seventh-day Adventist Church, a Protestant Christian denomination. Religious affiliation is not a requirement for admission but students are expected to respect the faith, beliefs, mission, and uphold the lifestyle expectations of the Seventh-day Adventist Church. Where students personally hold to other beliefs and practices, these are confined to private and personal practise whilst on campus.

The following expectations have grown out of Christian values, beliefs and Adventist traditions, and are set out here so that students are aware of the values and expectations held by the College.

Avondale is committed to scholarship and sound learning. It follows a program of continual academic assessment designed to develop accountability in its students. Students are expected to maintain regular attendance and active participation in all academic appointments.

Worship is integral to the College program, and a variety of worship services are available to students and staff. Students are required to attend a specified number of chapels and assemblies during the College year. Residential students are also required to attend a number of residence hall worships. The seventh-day Sabbath, commencing at sunset on Friday evening and concluding at sunset on Saturday, is set aside for worship, prayer, praise, Bible study, sharing and fellowship. Attendance at Sabbath worship services is encouraged. No classes or sporting activities are held during Sabbath hours. In addition, with the exception of essential services, the work program ceases.

Avondale academic courses usually contain one subject per year which specifically addresses the religious, ethical, or social values for which the College stands. These subjects are integral to the Avondale program and are not optional. Students are also encouraged to become involved in campus recreational and cultural activities.

Students are expected to show kindness, courtesy, and respect for others. This means that any action and/or behaviour that is demeaning or causes physical, emotional or psychological injury to others is inappropriate. In particular, students are advised that alcohol, tobacco, sexual misconduct, pornography and drugs are not permitted.

Values

Avondale College is committed to the following values:

Excellence in learning and teaching

Avondale College is committed to scholarly and sound learning. College administration and College Council affirm the contribution made by the staff of Avondale to student support, teaching, research, and the modelling of the Seventh-day Adventist faith and lifestyle. In valuing excellence in learning and teaching the personal and professional growth of staff is also highly valued.

Spiritual development in students and staff

Avondale College places a priority on educating skilled professionals who will make significant contribution as denominational leaders, leaders in society and/or as Christian role models in the world. Therefore, the spiritual development and nurture of both students and staff is a priority of the College in order to assist graduates and staff to develop and maintain a personal Christian experience and to be able to share this experience with others.

Maintaining a supportive environment

Avondale College aims to establish and maintain a supportive learning environment that encourages challenge and risk-taking as dynamic elements that contribute to a quality education.

Integrity

Avondale College values integrity in its own operations and it seeks to develop skilled graduates who will act with integrity and ethical principles in their future personal and professional lives.

Equity and fairness

Avondale College values equity and fairness in its dealings with both staff and students, and the College expects staff and students to treat each other with equity and fairness.

Leadership and collaboration

Avondale College believes in challenging students to reach their highest potential in their academic pursuits their practical experiences, and in their community service. As future community leaders it is expected that graduates will contribute to the well-being of society, work collaboratively with other professionals, and actively lead the Church and society into the future.