Welcome to St Mary’s Primary School, Bowraville

“I have come so that they may have life and have it to the full”

(John 10:10)

 Giinagay – ‘Welcome’ in Gumbaynggirr

 St. Mary’s School Bowraville.

 St Mary’s school is a unique school set in the picturesque Nambucca Valley with a predominately indigenous enrolment. The school has developed into a wonderful educational environment where students enjoy a sense of peace and trust. The principal and staff are supported by the local Gumbaynggirr community that has a long and proud history of engagement with the school which was opened over 108 years ago.

St. Mary’s school is a learning community which provides a safe and caring environment where each student is respected as an individual and nurtured academically, socially and spiritually.   Our school is committed to retaining the traditional indigenous culture of the Gumbaynggirr people and for all our children to keep a connection with their identity. We as a school also recognise the need for a global perspective in their lives in order to be a responsible, respectful and well equipped individual in today’s society.

The school has recently been rebuilt and offers the students and families the very best in facilities and Information Technology equipment. It is staffed by a team of indigenous and non-indigenous teachers focused on providing a quality educational, social and religious environment.

Choosing a school for your child is clearly one of the most important decisions you will ever have to make as a parent. In joining with us here at St. Mary’s school, your decision to enrol your child at this school offers them a personalised education that is constantly adjusted to suit the needs of the learner and one that will deliver 21st century learning experiences to all students with a rigorous and challenging academic program.

As a Catholic school we try to live out this message and ask God to support and guide our students through their journey in their own Catholic faith. I am extremely excited about the future of St. Mary’s School and I look forward to welcoming you to our school community and seeing your light shine.

Mr. Warren Niethe

Principal