St John Fisher College is named in honour of Cardinal St John Fisher, a courageous scholar, reformer, and martyr.
Born in Yorkshire, Fisher was known for his sharp intellect, plain speech, and deep faith. He studied at the University of Cambridge from the age of 14, earning his Master’s degree and becoming ordained in 1491. By 1504, he had become Chancellor for life of Cambridge, where he revitalised the university by improving its curriculum, attracting renowned scholars like Erasmus, and securing funding from patrons such as Lady Margaret Beaufort.
Fisher was deeply committed to truth and conscience. As Bishop of Rochester for 30 years, he was a defender of the poor and a staunch advocate of the Catholic faith. Alongside his close friend Sir Thomas More, Fisher refused to accept King Henry VIII’s claim to be Supreme Head of the Church of England. Despite their previous roles as trusted advisors to the King, both men were executed for high treason in 1535. Fisher was beheaded on June 22, just weeks after being named a Cardinal by Pope Paul III, and only days before More met the same fate.
For our college community, St John Fisher offers a powerful challenge: to live with integrity, courage, and a deep commitment to truth. He reminds us that conscience is not about convenience or popular opinion—it is about honest reflection, perseverance, and staying true to one’s values, even when it is difficult.
© Brisbane Catholic Education, St John Fisher (2026)