Our College's Story
Saint Mary's Catholic College is a regional co-educational Catholic College built on the lands of the Wakka Wakka people. We offer quality inclusive education to students in the South Burnett region. The College belongs to the community of over 146 Catholic schools in the Archdiocese of Brisbane and provides a seamless education for students from Prep to Year 12. The College has been proudly serving the families of the South Burnett district since 1990, following the amalgamation of the St Mary's Parish Primary and Secondary Schools, and has an enrolment of approximately 300 students.
Catholic Education was offered originally by the Sisters of Charity in 1929. In 1934 the Sisters of the Good Samaritan commenced their work in the Kingaroy Parish, particularly in the area of Catholic Education at the local parish primary and secondary schools.
The Good Samaritan Sisters were founded in 1857 by Archbishop John Bede Polding to work with the female convicts, initially, and then they moved into the field of Catholic education generally. The concept of the Gospel parable of the Good Samaritan focuses on Christian Ministry with special emphasis on compassion - a characteristic which expresses itself in relating to persons in the reality of their situation. As a Benedictine monk, Archbishop Polding adapted the rule of St Benedict for the Good Samaritan Congregation - a rule of life that was based on a balance of work, prayer and rest. Underpinning all activity however, was the achievement of a constant state of listening with the ear of the heart.
Faith is central to all aspects of College life with all staff committed to providing students with an opportunity for spiritual formation. Following in the tradition of the Sisters of the Good Samaritan, the College has adopted the philosophy of the Benedictine traditions.
Saint Mary's Catholic College strives to be a peaceful, caring and welcoming community, where people are nurtured and challenged, and encouraged to grow. As a Catholic College we are committed to proclaiming Gospel values through all aspects of College life.
Special features of Saint Mary's Catholic College
A seamless education from Prep to Year 12
A focus on the spiritual growth and holistic education for every student
A safe family environment where every student is known and valued
Programs designed to support a diversity of learning needs of every student
Excellent academic tradition and program
Sporting, cultural and enrichment programs
- State of the art facilities
High levels of University/Apprenticeship placement
- An excellent Vocational Education (TAFE, Apprenticeship and Traineeship) program
Family discounts and concessions
- Positive Behaviour 4 Learning Program