In its 7th year, St Francis Catholic College has already developed a strong reputation for excellence and growing young people to be the best that they can be. As such, I am absolutely thrilled to be appointed as the new Principal in such a vibrant and growing K-12 school and I look forward to leading the school into the future.
Our College motto, “Open Minds, Open Hearts” captures the essence of what we expect from all of our students and staff as they embrace their education and calling at St Francis. We want our young people to be open to new learning experiences and rich opportunities that are before them. By doing so, it will allow the gifts that God has given them to shine.
Our College has been built on the charism and values of Blessed Edmund Rice and is committed to providing quality Catholic education in a safe and nurturing manner. We encourage students to grow into the fullness of their humanity in a learning environment in which they learn to become respectful, courteous, compassionate, honest and reliable in all of their dealings with their family, their peers and life beyond school.
Our College Values are based around the four touchstones: ‘Liberating Education’, ‘Gospel Spirituality’, ‘Inclusive Community’ and ‘Justice and Solidarity’ and provide a great bases for exemplifying what we hold dear and aspire towards. Not surprisingly, in keeping with the values and work of St Francis of Assisi, our College is very much committed to ecological sustainability.
As a K-12 systemic Catholic School in the Wollongong Diocese the College is also an associated school in the Edmund Rice Education Australia (EREA) network of schools; a network which includes links to schools in the Edmund Rice tradition in India, Ireland & Africa. A connection which may allow students to learn more about life in different countries, encourage international relationships and lead to opportunities for immersion as senior students.
Locally, the College works closely with neighbouring parishes, particularly Mary Mother of the Church Parish, Macquarie Fields, within whose boundaries the College is built.
St Francis is genuinely one school and is not a traditional primary school and high school co-existing on the one site. We take advantage of specialist facilities and specialist teachers for students K-12.
Being a K-12 school, St Francis will provide opportunities for your child to be well known and challenged for the full 13 years of their compulsory education. Traditional periods of transition between primary and high school are avoided and your child/ren can continue to develop strong relationships with friends. It also keeps siblings together at the same school regardless of school age.
We welcome you to St Francis Catholic College and I encourage you to visit and explore our Website and Facebook Page and to learn more about our dynamic learning community and the possibilities that St Francis affords.
God bless.
Mr Matthew McMahon
College Principal
