Following the launch of our new Strategic Plan, Shaping Tomorrow, Together in Faith, we shared on the evening of 12 August 2025 the developments within St Cecilia’s and the Southern Beaches precinct.
Parent and staff feedback have highlighted resoundingly the need to strengthen the pathways for systemic Catholic secondary education within their area, as well as the need for a specialist Stage 3 Learning Hub for students in Years 5 and 6.
Having successfully transitioned to co-education in 2025, St Paul’s Catholic College, Manly will be expanding into a dynamic Year 5-12 multi-campus College, commencing in 2026. The new St Paul’s campus, accommodating Years 5 and 6 and delivering the Stage 3 Hub, will be located at the existing site of St Cecilia’s Catholic Primary School, Balgowlah. The Hub will provide tailored, Middle-School education for children in Years 5 and 6 who will then continue their secondary school journey at St Paul’s Catholic College, Manly.
This exciting new chapter ensures the continued presence of Catholic education in the Balgowlah area – one that reflects our deep commitment to care, compassion and inclusive education.
It does, however, necessitate changes to the existing arrangements at St Cecilia’s.
What this means for your children and community
From the beginning of the 2026 school year, the two North Harbour Parish schools, St Cecilia’s Catholic Primary School, Balgowlah, and St Kieran’s Catholic Primary School, Manly Vale will come together, offering K-Year 6 education at the St Kieran’s site at Manly Vale which will provide wonderful opportunities for students including:
• A larger school community creating extended peer networks and friendships
• Broader student leadership roles and an expanded range of co-curricular opportunities
• Continuity of relationships with some current staff transitioning alongside students
• Consistent class sizes aligned with Diocesan standards for optimal learning
• A carefully planned transition program throughout 2025 ensuring students and families feel supported, confident, and excited about this next chapter.
We plan to build on the unique strengths of both schools and ensure a thriving future for Catholic education within the North Harbour Parish and the Southern Beaches Precinct.
A holistic education pathway
This transformation allows us to create a more holistic and future-focused pathway for Catholic education in the Southern Beaches Precinct area. By combining the strengths of both schools, and by establishing the St Paul’s Catholic College Junior Campus Stage 3 Hub at Balgowlah, we will be able to:
• Ensure that every child has access to modern, faith-filled facilities and programs designed for their success
• Provide students with a wonderful Middle School foundation with access to expert teachers as they enter seamlessly into secondary schooling
• Increase student networks and friendship opportunities on both sites.
If you would like further information or have any queries, please contact us at contact.southernbeaches@dbb.catholic.edu.au.