*Please note, Frequently Asked Questions are located at the bottom of this page as a downloadable document. These will be updated to ensure all are kept up to date with the latest information.*
Following the launch of our new Strategic Plan, Shaping Tomorrow, Together in Faith, I wanted to write to you directly to share some exciting developments for your school community.
In response to strong community feedback and the changing needs of local families, the current site of St Philip Neri Catholic Primary School will be transformed into a dedicated Eileen O’Connor Catholic School facility – expanding our mission to support students with complex learning needs across the North Shore.
This exciting new chapter reflects our unwavering commitment to care and compassion for every learner. It also ensures the continued presence of Catholic education in the Northbridge community – one that embraces diversity and responds with purpose to those who need us most.
It does, however, necessitate change of existing arrangements at the School.
What this means for your children and community
From the beginning of the 2026 school year, the two schools of the Parish of Lower North Shore, St Philip Neri Catholic Primary School, Northbridge, and St Thomas Catholic Primary School, Willoughby, will come together as one primary school community on the St Thomas site. We plan to build on the unique strengths of both schools and ensure a thriving future for Catholic education on the Lower North Shore.
Every current student at St Philip Neri, including those enrolled for Kindergarten 2026, will be warmly welcomed at St Thomas. The move offers wonderful new opportunities for all 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.
A holistic education pathway
This transformation allows us to create a more holistic and future-focused pathway for Catholic education in the Northbridge and Willoughby area. By combining the strengths of both schools, and by establishing an inclusive education hub at Northbridge, we will be able to:
- Support all learners from their earliest years
- Provide dedicated support for children with additional needs
- Ensure that every child has access to modern, faith-filled facilities and programs designed for their success.
Next Steps
To confirm your child’s enrolment for 2026 at St Thomas, please complete the Transfer of Enrolment Form contained in the Parent Information Pack, available at the school for each family, by Friday, 12 September 2025. If you need more time to submit the enrolment transfer form, please contact St Thomas Catholic Primary School, Willoughby stw@dbb.catholic.edu.au or 02 7256 2104.
Confirmation of enrolment at St Thomas for 2026 will be sent by email once the Transfer of Enrolment forms have been received and processed.
If you would like further information or have any queries, please contact us at contact.northshore@dbb.catholic.edu.au.