Address: Moore Street, Ararat VIC
Principal/s: Roxanne Leed
Phone: 0353521796
Website: http://www.smararat.catholic.edu.au/
Governing Authority: DOBCEL
St Mary's is a Catholic primary school encompassing levels Prep to Year 6. The school is situated in Ararat and offers educational services to children drawn from many parts of the district. A good number of students live locally while others bus in from surrounding rural areas. The families of our students come from a variety of socio-economic backgrounds and family structures. Our school welcomes Catholic students and those who seek the values of our Catholic tradition.
St Mary's Parish Primary School originated as a result of the 1850's gold rush and the ensuing permanent settlement of the Ararat district. In 1889 the Brigidine Sisters took over the running of the school from lay teacher, Mr Thomas Williams, thus securing for Ararat's Catholic community a firm basis for their educational and religious development.
Our Motto - Strength & Gentleness
The motto "Strength and Gentleness" (Fortiter et Suaviter), was the motto of the Founder of the Brigidine Sisters, Bishop Daniel Delaney. The motto sets before us the virtues of strength and gentleness, so characteristic of St Brigid and challenges us all to be ‘people of strength' and ‘people of gentleness'.
Vision Statement
St Mary’s is a Catholic school community inspired by the Gospel, and in the spirit of the Brigidine tradition, we are committed to “learning for all, fairness for all, compassion for all” .
Mission Statement
Catholic School Culture
We are inspired by Christ and our Catholic faith tradition to respond to the challenges of the Gospel in our world today. We are called to be the presence of Christ for one another and act for social justice with strength and gentleness.
Community Engagement
We welcome all people in the Brigidine tradition of inclusiveness and belonging. We engage in meaningful and collaborative relationships with all members of our community to ensure the best outcomes for all.
Leadership and Stewardship
We empower all to contribute positively to our world. We embed a culture of collaboration with purpose and clarity to ensure high levels of learning for all.
Learning and Teaching
We cultivate a passion for learning by inspiring and challenging each other. We engage and support learners at their point of need to ensure that all learners can reach their full potential.
Wellbeing
We create a safe, inclusive environment that celebrates effort and achievement and promotes dignity and fullness of life for all. We identify, respect and celebrate the unique gifts of all people to nurture their wellbeing.