Our Story
Our journey at the St. John of Kronstadt Academy began over six years ago, sparked by the birth of Fr. Stephen David's daughter. Contemplating her future education prompted both Fr. Stephen and his wife, Matushka Maria, to closely examine the prevailing educational landscape. Despite Fr. Stephen's conventional education as a lawyer and the assistant priest of a growing parish, Fr Stephen kept himself attuned to the evolving discourse surrounding education. Engaging in conversations and debates with parents, colleagues, and parishioners revealed a growing apprehension about the direction of education and a widespread quest for alternatives that prioritise a more thorough and indepth education embedded firmly in the Orthodox faith.
This quest led Fr Stephen to explore educational practices abroad, where he discovered that many countries were outperforming Australia in educational outcomes. Delving deeper, he was fortuitously given a book that shed light on the concept of "classical education," a historical approach nurturing the mind, body, and soul on the true, the good, and the beautiful. It resonated deeply with him as a timeless educational philosophy that had shaped some of history's greatest minds and writers such as Galileo Galilei, Marie Curie and the C S Lewis.
Despite the abundance of classical schools in the United States, there were none in Australia. Rather than relocating his family to be closer to a classical school, he felt compelled to establish a classical school in Brisbane, offering families a viable and superior educational alternative. Seeking guidance, Fr Stephen approached His Grace Bishop George, who blessed the endeavour.
Embarking on this venture initially felt very daunting. Fr Stephen immersed himself in the world of classical education and teaching, quickly finding himself surrounded by teachers, parents, and other important stakeholders. Within a year, what had begun as an idea transformed into a tangible reality. The Academy's vision was clear: to cultivate Saints devoted to God, righteousness, and love for neighbour.
Through prayer and perseverance, a dedicated Academy Board was appointed, accreditation applications were submitted, and a suitable campus was secured. In January 2024, St. John of Kronstadt Academy opened its doors, embarking on a journey dedicated to wisdom, virtue, eloquence and ultimately theosis. The Academy board comprises four dedicated professionals, each bringing unique expertise to guide the academy's mission and values.
In a short period, the Academy has experienced remarkable growth and is actively seeking the ideal location to establish a permanent Academy campus. Our students are thriving, and the Academy is at the forefront of an educational renaissance. As we continue to grow in numbers we humbly appeal to your generosity and support to help bring our vision to fruition. Together, we can create a transformative learning environment for our students. Your contributions will enable us to provide an education that nurtures Christian men and women characterised by wisdom, virtue, and eloquence. Every donation, no matter how small, brings us closer to our goal of building an exemplary school.
For more information about the Academy and how you can contribute, please visit our website at www.stjohnacademy.qld.edu.au. Please keep the Academy in your prayers.
In Christ