It is with great joy that I welcome you to St John the Baptist Primary School, Maitland.
St John the Baptist is a Catholic primary school catering for approximately 400 students from Kindergarten to Year 6. Located in the heart of historic Maitland, we are proud to be a welcoming and vibrant community where faith, learning and wellbeing are at the centre of all that we do.
Our school has a rich history dating back to 1856 and holds a special place in the story of Catholic education in Australia. As the first Dominican school established in Australia, we are proud of the legacy of the Dominican Sisters and the traditions they established at St John the Baptist. Today, our Dominican heritage continues to shape our school through the pillars of Prayer, Study, Community and Service.
At St John the Baptist, we believe every child should feel known, valued and supported to reach their full potential. We hold high expectations for our students while recognising that each child brings their own strengths, interests and needs to our community. Our dedicated staff work together to provide engaging, inclusive and meaningful learning experiences that support the intellectual, spiritual, social, emotional and physical development of every student.
We want our students to be active participants in their learning — to be curious, to ask questions, to embrace challenge and to develop the confidence to contribute positively to the world around them. Our Catholic faith and Dominican tradition call us to seek truth, show compassion and recognise the dignity of every person.
Central to our school is a strong sense of community. We value the important partnership between students, families, staff, parish and the wider community, knowing that our children thrive when we work together. Our families play an important role in the life of our school, and we are grateful for the many ways they contribute to and strengthen our community.
As Principal, I feel privileged to lead St John the Baptist and to work alongside our students, staff and families. Whether you are a current family, joining us for the first time or considering St John the Baptist for your child, I hope you experience the warmth, faith and sense of belonging that make our school such a special place.
I warmly invite you to explore our website and learn more about our school community.
May God bless our students, families and staff as we continue to walk together in faith, learning and service.
Kate Ferguson
Principal