Catholic Schools in the diocese of Maitland-Newcastle take pride in offering our students more than an education. It’s the experiences beyond the classroom that shape well-rounded young people to live meaningful lives. But what does more really mean?
It reflects our deep understanding that parents today are looking for more than just academic instruction. They want a school that nurtures their child’s wellbeing, fosters a sense of belonging, and upholds the values that matter most to their family. And according to recent national research, this is exactly what parents across Australia are saying they want from their school communities.
An Edstart survey of 1,535 families shows that 61% of parents rank alignment with family values including faith, ethics, and social ideals as the top factor in choosing a school. Close behind, wellbeing matters more than ever: 54% consider emotional support from their school essential, and a striking 69% would think about leaving if their child felt unhappy or unsupported
It’s clear: academic reputation and specialised programs, once seen as top-tier drawcards, now take a back seat with only 47% of parents weighing academic performance heavily, compared to 20% who consider it a reason to leave.
In short, families today are asking for a school that:
· Strengthens their values
· Supports their child’s wellbeing
· Offers personal attention
· Charts clear future pathways
Our Catholic schools not only meet but embodies each of these growing expectations, emerging as the natural first choice for parents seeking something more than an education.
1. Faith & Values at the Core (61%)
A remarkable 61% of parents identified alignment with family values, including religion and social ideals as the most important factor in school selection. At our schools, we’re more focused on the shared values of faith that guide everyday life compassion, social responsibility, respect, integrity, and community. We integrate these values into every aspect of learning, from teaching ethical decision-making and service to others, to promoting honest communication and mutual respect. This consistent, lived experience gives parents the confidence that their child’s education resonates with the values in the home.
2. Wellbeing Makes the Difference (54%–69%)
Mental health and student happiness are front of mind. 54% of parents consider support for wellbeing when choosing a school, and a startling 69% would move their child if they felt unhappy or unsupported.
That’s why our pastoral care isn’t just a program, it’s the heart of our daily culture. Through school-wide social-emotional learning, caring mentor relationships, and dedicated counselling services, we ensure every student feels supported, understood, and nurtured, both emotionally and spiritually.
3. Offers personal attention (24%)
Parents’ call for more individualised attention (24%) and enhanced wellbeing support (23%).
At our Catholic school, every child is more than just a number, we focus on their unique strengths, challenges, interests, and goals. Through individual tailored learning pathways, we ensure teachers can adapt lessons to each student’s needs, closely monitor progress, and provide meaningful, personalised feedback a strategy proven to boost engagement and academic success. With holistic wellbeing check-ins mean every child feels known, valued, and supported. This commitment transforms education from a broad, generic experience into empowering personal growth, giving students the confidence to thrive academically, socially, and emotionally.
4. Career & Pathways Support (20%)
One-in-five parents want robust guidance on future options.
Our comprehensive career and pathway initiatives include tailored counselling, vocational exposure, academic extension, and strong alumni engagement, all designed to help students and parents make informed, confidence-instilled decisions about the future.
Our mission isn’t about keeping up with trends, it’s about living our faith and caring deeply for our students. By meeting parents’ top-listed needs, we don’t just adapt, we lead.
