St Patrick’s Primary School in Walcha is being celebrated as the standout educational institution in the New England region, after being voted best school on day 31 of our BITNE promotion.

With a long history of academic excellence, strong pastoral care, and a values-based approach to learning, the school has earned a reputation as one of the region’s most well-rounded and high-performing primary schools.

Situated in the small rural town of Walcha, St Patrick’s is a co-educational Catholic primary school offering education from Kindergarten to Year 6. It is part of the Armidale Diocese and was originally founded by the Sisters of Mercy in 1911.

Despite its small size, the school has continued to thrive, offering a nurturing and engaging environment for students and staff alike. Enrolments currently sit at around 94 students, which allows for a personalised learning experience and a close-knit school community.

Acting Principal, Elizabeth Makeham, said, “We’re growing quite quickly now but we have an incredible underpinning of support in the Armidale Catholic Schools network.”

Mrs Makeham, who has worked at the school for over 20 years, expressed gratitude for the win on behalf of the whole school community.

“I might be biased, but I think our school is pretty special,” she said.

“We’ve just got all the right ingredients – lovely families, wonderful teachers and just a fantastic community in Walcha that always supports its own.”

It’s clear that those who attend the school feel just as passionately about it, with Lisa saying, “All staff and students are very caring and supportive of each other, no child slips through the cracks, the school is more like a family network.”

“A fabulous school, with so many opportunities for students,” said Kate.

Paul said, “It’s a small school with a big heart.”

Academically, St Patrick’s has made its mark in recent NAPLAN results – a testament to the quality of teaching and the school’s focus on helping every child reach their full potential.

Beyond academic results, the school is also known for its commitment to wellbeing, inclusivity, and cultural awareness. Programs such as R U OK? Day, NAIDOC Week celebrations, and a variety of wellbeing initiatives support students emotionally and socially. At the same time, a music ensemble program introduced in recent years has added a creative outlet for students to explore their talents.

Under the leadership of Principal Dallas Hyatt, St Patrick’s has maintained a strong sense of purpose and identity. The school community embraces Gospel values, and students are encouraged to act with kindness, responsibility, and respect. Teachers are supported to bring out the best in their classrooms, and parents are welcomed as active participants in the life of the school.

Best in the New England is an annual promotion run by New England Times. Find out more here.
See who won last year.
Read the terms and conditions of the promotion.
See all the stories about Best in the New England including winner profiles.