“Ever wondered about the story behind a school that began with fewer than 150 students and a vision?” That’s Saint Mary MacKillop Catholic School. This school stands as a testament to community spirit and faith-based education.
In 2000 Saint Mary MacKillop School officially opened its doors. The opening roll had less than 150 students. This was the realization of a dream for local Catholic parishioners. These parishioners belonged to St Therese and St Anthony. Their dream spanned almost forty years.
Before Saint Mary MacKillop Catholic School, families attended Catholic schools elsewhere. They went to Onehunga, Otahuhu, and Papatoetoe. Many chose local state schools. Some could not attend Catholic schools due to roll restrictions.
The establishment of Saint Mary MacKillop School involved dedicated individuals. An establishment Board was set up in 1999. It comprised members from both parishes. Sr Aquinne, Sr Lucille, and Neil Laurenson also participated. They came from the Catholic Education Board.
Choosing a name for the new Catholic school sparked discussions. Initial suggestions included Divine Mercy and St Mary. Other suggestions were St Joseph and Mary MacKillop School. Eventually the parishes selected Divine Mercy and Mary MacKillop. Bishop Pat Dunn made the final decision due to a split vote. Mary MacKillop became the Patron Saint. Her Australasian link was significant.
In 2010, the school’s name changed. It became St Mary MacKillop Catholic School.
Saint Mary MacKillop Catholic School embraces its purpose. It provides inclusive education rich in Gospel and St Mary MacKillop Values. The school aims for academic excellence.
The school’s spirituality shines. Staff and students relate well. They welcome visitors. They support each other and the wider community. The school’s charism and values encourage faith development. The school fosters a sense of belonging. They welcome people with a smile and warm greeting. Special Character report Nov 2015 confirms this.
At Saint Mary MacKillop Catholic School, you can expect a warm welcome. The staff constantly challenge themselves. They strive to be the best. They are professional, talented, reflective, and caring. The school provides a modern learning environment. It supports pupils in reaching their potential. Children learn to belong and achieve. They experience rich and varied learning. These experiences prepare them to be well-rounded learners and leaders. The school offers opportunities within and beyond the curriculum. These include sports, cultural dance, class trips, and speech competitions.
Attendance Dues are compulsory. This is under the Education and Training Act 2020. It’s a condition of enrolment. Attendance Dues are charged for all students attending Catholic Schools in New Zealand.
These dues repay loans for building works. They cover property costs and building insurance. They also cover administration costs. Saint Mary MacKillop School collects these dues. It does so on behalf of the Roman Catholic Bishop of Auckland. The collected dues go to Auckland Common Fund Limited.
Financial assistance is available. Families needing support can contact their school office. They can also contact their Parish Priest. Auckland Common Fund Ltd can also provide information.
Saint Mary MacKillop Catholic School stands for community, faith, and learning. It prepares students to be leaders. The school embraces its values. It fosters a strong sense of belonging. It is more than just a school. It is a family.