BOWRAVILLE’S St Mary’s Primary School will not charge fees during 2027 thanks to the Diocese of Lismore Catholic Schools (DLCS) Small School initiative.
The school is the first Catholic school in the Diocese to trial a no-fees year. The initiative will apply whether students are new or already enrolled at the school.
The Small School initiative aims to help more members of the community access ‘quality, affordable Catholic education’.
“It’s a wonderful initiative for families in our community that have experienced trials and tribulations in the past,” said St Mary’s assistant principal Jane Paton.
Principal Amy Chapman described St Mary’s as a small school with a big heart.
“We currently have 52 students enrolled and our small class sizes allow us to build strong relationships with each student and provide personalised support to meet their individual learning needs,” she said.
“We recognise that every child is unique and strive to create an inclusive environment where all students feel valued, supported and encouraged to reach their full potential.
“Pastoral care is at the heart of our school, with a strong focus on nurturing each child’s social, emotional and spiritual wellbeing so they feel safe, connected and a true sense of belonging.”
Chapman gained graduate certificates in both Steiner education and Theology, which helped shape her leadership.
The school draws upon the Berry Street Education Model, which originated in Victoria, developing trauma-informed practice.
“This fosters positive relationships with students and gives them tools to facilitate learning, such as morning circle before class to encourage connection and belonging,” Amy said.
“Lunchtime clubs such as gardening, farming, arts and games are options for students.
“Produce from the gardening club helps provide students with home-grown food through free school lunches.”
Sharon De Dassel, an education support officer with the DLCS, offers strategic support with learning and teaching and visits a minimum of three times each term to help feed in new ideas.
“St Mary’s Primary is different to a private school as it’s a systemic school, aligned with the diocese, where finances are shared, not independently raised,” De Dassel said.
St Mary’s Primary School Bowraville is the first Catholic school for DLCS to trial a no-fees year, and Kyogle will trial a reduced-fee year in 2027.
The school welcomes inquiries and school tours.
By Sharon JANE
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