The Marist Charism at St Patrick's Primary School

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St Patrick’s Primary School is proud to be a Marist school, guided by the vision of Saint Marcellin Champagnat. Marcellin believed that to educate children well, we must first love them—showing care, presence and understanding in all that we do. This spirit continues to shape our school culture, where every child is known, valued and supported to flourish.

 

At the heart of the Marist charism is a simple but powerful call: to love all children, and to love them equally. We strive to ensure that every student, regardless of their background, ability or circumstance, feels a deep sense of belonging and dignity. This commitment is lived out each day through our relationships, our teaching and the way we build a welcoming, inclusive community.

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The Five Characteristics of a Marist School

 

Our identity as a Marist school is expressed through five key characteristics that guide our actions and decisions:

 

Presence

We are intentionally present to one another. Staff build strong, positive relationships with students, taking time to listen, notice and support. We believe that authentic connection is at the heart of effective learning and wellbeing.

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Simplicity

We approach life with humility and authenticity. Simplicity invites us to focus on what truly matters—faith, relationships and learning, while modelling honesty, integrity and gratitude.

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Family Spirit

We foster a strong sense of belonging where everyone feels part of a supportive and caring community. Like a family, we celebrate together, support one another in times of need and work collaboratively for the good of all.

 

Love of Work

We encourage students to take pride in their learning and to develop perseverance, responsibility and a growth mindset. We value effort, resilience and striving to do one’s best in all areas of life.

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In the Way of Mary

Inspired by Mary, we seek to live with gentleness, courage, compassion and faith. Mary is our model of trust in God and care for others, guiding how we respond to the needs of those around us.

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Living the Marist Way

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Being a Marist school is not just something we say; it is something we live. It shapes:

• The way we welcome every child and family

• The respect and care shown in our relationships

• Our commitment to inclusion and equity

• The way we respond to challenges with compassion and understanding

• Our focus on forming young people who contribute positively to the world

 

At St Patrick’s, the Marist charism calls us to create a school where every child is loved, every voice is heard, and every person is treated with equal dignity. Through this, we continue the mission of Marcellin Champagnat—making Jesus known and loved through the everyday life of our school community.

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GameChangers - Living the Marist Way in Action

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At St Patrick’s, our Game Changers reflect the Marist call to form young people as faith-filled leaders and agents of positive change. As part of Marist youth ministry, the program is grounded in the stories of Jesus, Mary and Saint Marcellin Champagnat, inviting students to grow in faith, leadership and a strong sense of belonging within a supportive community.

 

Through regular opportunities for prayer, connection, leadership development and practical service, students are encouraged to live

out their faith in action. Game Changers nurtures young people to become compassionate leaders who contribute positively to their school and wider community, embodying the Marist belief in loving all and loving them equally.

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Marist Themes

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                        2026                                                                    2025                                                                        2024

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