A MOVE to implement free mid-year intakes of reception students at Catholic schools has been welcomed by a Riverland principal.
The South Australian Commission for Catholic Schools (SACCS) announced the Making Catholic Education More Affordable initiative last week and follows an unprecedented move to reduce fees in every Catholic primary school statewide.
St Joseph’s School Barmera principal Lee Abela described the initiative as “fantastic”.
“I think it’s great that SACCS is doing anything they can to support families,” he said.
“Due to our current climate and everything that’s happened with COVID, families have had it tough, so to reduce financial burdens is great.”
Mr Abela said he looks forward to meeting new students.
“In 2016 we had just over 50 students and now we have 117,” he said.
“Our school is not only growing with students but in other ways.
“We have recently put in a discovery room which the new receptions will enjoy and we currently have a nature play area coming along nicely. We aim to give our students the best opportunities in a great learning environment.”
Catholic Education SA director Dr Neil McGoran said the initiative was about giving more families access to a quality, Catholic education.
“Last year we offered fee relief to any family unable to pay school fees due to the financial impact of COVID,” he said.
“This year, we reduced the school fees in every Catholic primary school statewide.
“These reductions are now in place with an average reduction of $450 per student.
“When you add that up – across all schools – that is $7.5 million back in the pockets of parents. In addition to remissions and reductions, we also introduced a lower income fee where eligible families can access a 40 per cent discount on their school fees.”
Dr McGoran said the fee reductions occurred alongside a system-wide strategy aimed at strengthening the provision and experience of an “excellent” Catholic education at each school.
“At the same time as we are introducing these reductions, we’re also focusing on improving educational and wellbeing outcomes for every student in our schools,” he said.
“Our aim is to work alongside families, raising the hearts and minds of young people and helping them to be thriving people, capable learners and leader for the world God desires.”
The free intake is open to students who turn five on or before October 31 and includes tuition fees and compulsory charges. It will exclude uniforms and extra-curricular costs.
For more information, visit https://www.cesa.catholic.edu.au/news/69082/2021-mid-year-intake-free-tuition.