Hawthorn-Melbourne is celebrating 40 years of shaping international student journeys, marking a milestone that reflects both the evolution of English language education in Australia and the enduring value of global learning communities.
The story began in March 1986, when a single class of international students walked through the doors of what was then the Hawthorn English Language Centre. Four decades later, Hawthorn-Melbourne has grown into a respected part of Victoria’s education sector, welcoming thousands of students from around the world and helping them take their next steps into further study, careers and life in Australia.
The anniversary was recently marked with a celebratory event bringing together staff, agents and long-time partners, including colleagues from the University of Melbourne. The gathering offered more than a look back. It was a reflection on the people, partnerships and purpose that have sustained the institution across four decades.
Principal Nick Kirk led guests through the centre’s history, charting its development from a small language provider to a globally connected institution. Each decade told a story of adaptation, from shifts in student demand to changes in pedagogy and the growing role of international education in Australia’s economy and society.
Voices from across the years added depth to the celebration. Admissions Manager Anne Simons reflected on the early foundations of the centre, recalling a time when international education was still finding its place. Teresa Devine, Hawthorn-Melbourne’s longest-serving academic with 32 years of service, shared her experiences of teaching in the 1990s and the evolution of academic programs to meet the changing needs of students.
Together, these reflections painted a picture of an institution that has continually adapted while staying grounded in its core mission.
That mission was echoed by Navitas Executive General Manager Sally Waite, who spoke about Hawthorn-Melbourne’s long-standing partnership with the University of Melbourne and its place within the global Navitas network since 2008.
“At the heart of our story, then and now, is our students,” she said. “Everything we do, and everything that has been built over four decades, comes back to them.”
The event also served as a reminder that institutions like Hawthorn-Melbourne are built over time through communities. Staff, students, agents and partners each play a role in shaping culture, experience and reputation. Over 40 years, those contributions have created not just an education provider, but a global alumni network and a lasting connection to Melbourne as a study destination.
As the international education sector continues to navigate change, Hawthorn-Melbourne’s 40-year milestone offers a moment to reflect on what endures. Student ambition, quality teaching and strong partnerships remain at the centre.
From one classroom in 1986 to a global community today, Hawthorn-Melbourne’s story is ultimately one of people. And as it looks to the future, that focus appears set to continue.
Chris Jones is the Director, English and Testing, University Partnerships Australia at Navitas.
Photo (L-R): Ian Aird, CEO English Australia, Nick Kirk, Principal Hawthorn-Melbourne, Sally Waite, Executive General Manager, Chris Jones, Director English & Testing
