FOR almost 100 years, St Mary’s Primary School, nestled in the heart of the picturesque Murray River township of Cohuna, has been a beacon of faith, learning, and community spirit.
New principal Lauren Gould said she can confirm, from personal experience, how “warm and welcoming” both the school community and the wider Cohuna community are.
She said since arriving there this year she has been overwhelmed by the vibrancy of the school – students and staff – and the way you can build relationships with every student and family.
“Since St Mary’s opened in 1926 its commitment has been to provide a nurturing and innovative educational environment, one which ensures every child can thrive and reach their full potential,” Ms Gould said.
“At our school we believe in making a difference in every child’s life and the dedicated St Mary’s staff and comprehensive programs are designed to offer rich, real, and relevant learning experiences.
“We strive to create a safe and fun environment where students can explore their interests, develop their skills, and grow in confidence.”
Ms Gould has taken on the lead role at St Mary’s and its 92 students from Foundation to Year 6, after working within the Catholic education system in the Sandhurst diocese and is enjoying the challenge of running the school.
Although even she admitted to finding the job specifications a little broader than she initially expected.
“We have just received $1.4 million in funding to create a multi-purpose building, which will also incorporate the library, and refurbish the interiors of the classrooms – so I am a principal and also need a hard hat as a project manager,” Ms Gould laughed.
“But really, one of the best things about St Mary’s Cohuna is we are more than just a school; we are a community.
“Our students, families, and staff work together to create a supportive and inclusive environment, which includes a range of extracurricular activities, including sports, arts, and community service, to help students develop well rounded skills and interests.
“We have a very stable staff, many have been here for five years or more; a couple have more than 15 years with the school, which provided us with real continuity and commitment.
“St Mary’s is also excited to be part of the Magnify Sandhurst initiative, which delivers a groundbreaking, evidence informed science of learning initiative developed by Catholic Education Sandhurst.”
She said while Catholic based, St Mary’s Cohuna welcomes everyone who seeks to benefit from the school’s exceptional education.
St Mary’s Cohuna is a low-fee paying school – with reduced fees for families with concession cards – and sees its students go on to attend senior schools such as St Joseph’s in Echuca as well as Cohuna Secondary College and Barham High.
St Mary’s Cohuna is at 47-49 King Edward Street and can be contacted on (03) 5456 2062 or principal@smcohuna.catholic.edu.au
