Catherine McAuley Primary School to open in Medowie
A new primary school is one step closer for the Port Stephens region, with Medowie’s Catherine McAuley Primary School officially on the way.
Scheduled to open in 2026, the primary school will cater to the demand for Catholic education within the region and form part of the education precinct which is already home to Catherine McAuley Catholic College and the St Nicholas Early Education Centre.
Bishop of Maitland-Newcastle, Michael Kennedy, said that like the College, the primary school will also operate under the patronage of Catherine McAuley, grounded in the Mercy traditions of justice, excellence, integrity, courage, hospitality and mercy.
"Catherine McAuley was a mission-minded woman, a strong woman, a woman who became so heavily embedded in her service to the poor, sick and uneducated, that she founded the Sisters of Mercy,” said Bishop Kennedy. “The values of Catherine McAuley will be at the heart of Medowie’s newest primary school and remind us of the enduring legacy of the Mercy Sisters’ historic contribution to the local area.”
Chief Executive Officer and Director of Catholic Schools, Sean Scanlon, said that Catherine McAuley Primary School’s close connection to St Nicholas’ Early Education Centre and Catherine McAuley Catholic College will benefit students by having access to a comprehensive educational journey, nurturing their growth from infancy through to adulthood.
"The school will be dedicated to instilling a commitment to excellence and a passion for lifelong learning in every student, paying tribute to the remarkable teachings of Catherine McAuley and the Sisters of Mercy within the Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle," said Mr Scanlon.
"We will nurture students throughout their primary school journey, empowering them to advocate for others and transform aspirations into achievements, just like Catherine McAuley.”
Combining rich spirituality with state-of-the-art facilities, the school will merge Catholic faith, design excellence and architectural merit.
"Catherine McAuley Primary School will be modelled around a contemporary curriculum, supported by purpose-built flexible learning spaces and advanced technology to empower students to realise their potential, while also fostering a strong connection to the Worimi land on which it’s built,” said Mr Scanlon.
Extensive consultation with community elders has ensured the history of the location will continue to be honoured, with artefacts unearthed during the excavation process showcased at Catherine McAuley Catholic College.
Commencing with Kindergarten, Year 1 and Year 2 in Term 1 2026, the school will grow by 2030 to support young people through to Year 6.
Recruitment for a Foundation Principal will commence imminently.
Initial expressions of interest for enrolment or enquiries can be made by contacting info@mn.catholic.edu.au or by visiting www.mn.catholic.edu.au.
Media contact: Madie Leeming – 0419 786 872
