Education in the Narrabri Shire

As an approved community-based vocational education and training (VET) provider, our college is assisted in reaching students in regional and remote communities that experience barriers to training and employment through the NSW Government’s ACE Program and Smart and Skilled funding. We have a track record delivering our training under these programs in a way we think makes us special.

Some of the subsidised and supported programs we deliver are:

• Training for eligible business people and farmers affected by issues such as pandemic and drought.
• Foundation skills training.
• Programs and support services that help equip people with the language, literacy, numeracy and employability skills required by businesses.
• Training in information technology, business services or foundation skills under the Tech Savvy for Small Business (TSB) program.
• Access to the free Be Connected program for people over 50 who need help to get online and connect using technology.
• Support for eligible students who experience significant barriers to education and employment.

Country Universities Centre North West have created dedicated learning and study spaces in Narrabri and Moree that have been designed for regional people by regional people. Our students have free access to high-speed internet, modern technology, and general academic support.

All students studying any degree at any university in Australia can register.

Our Centres are secure spaces where students can focus entirely on their studies. Students can connect with like-minded people and experience a campus-like environment while they study locally in the North West. We are focused on assisting our students settle into study, improve their academic skills and to make sure they feel like they have the tools to succeed in their studies.

TAFE NSW Narrabri is located in the town centre and offers a range of business, technology and trade associated courses to give students the skills and knowledge they need for the job they want.

TAFE NSW Narrabri offers certificate and diploma level vocational courses and general education programs with an aim to providing training that fills gaps in the local workforce.

In addition to the main unviersity campus located in Armidale, the University of New England (UNE) has a network of Regional Study Centres across New England and North West NSW.

Through the Regional Study Centre Network, students can access:

• Student PC's and printing facilities
• eduroam Wifi and access to the AARNet network
• BYO device workstations
• Direct phone link to UNE academic and professional staff
• Extend access to study space

Bellata Public School is established as a focal point of the small rural community and is acknowledged as offering quality education. The community supports all educational programs and initiatives. Resourcing of literacy and information technology is a priority. The school is student-centred. It provides its students with a safe and happy environment in which meaningful teaching and learning take place. The school curriculum is designed to nurture and enhance the personal, social, creative and academic development of each student. Comments from a student survey across the school indicate that the children are happy and love to come to school. The cultural understandings of students are broadened by providing them with meaningful experiences both in and out of school. Students are encouraged to participate in cultural and multicultural programs, debating, public speaking, arts, dance, writing and music. many opportunities for students to participate in both team and individual sports are provided.

Bendemeer Public School is a small rural school situated 40 minutes from Tamworth. We have the benefit of being closely located to a large community, which promotes opportunities for physical and human resources to support the education of our students.

Bendemeer Public School is committed to providing a sharing of learning with other small schools in the Tamworth Small Schools cluster and the New England Alliance+ Leadership Project.

Our students participate in sport, arts and across curriculum areas on a regular basis. Wherever possible, the school leaders and staff work together collaboratively as a learning team to enhance our knowledge of current teaching and learning practices.

This school serves the village community of Carroll and its rural surrounds.

Parents have chosen Carroll Public School because they value the atmosphere, individual learning opportunities and secure environment of the small school situation.

The school provides opportunities for students to become involved in activities with other schools and in community events, so that the students gain the confidence and experience necessary to cope in a world outside Carroll.

Chandler Public School is a great place for your child to learn. Our small class sizes allow teachers to devote more individual time and attention to students and give students greater access to our exceptional resources. School programs are individually targeted to ensure that all students reach their academic, sporting and creative potential. The genuine relationship between staff, students and our families ensures our school maintains a high standard of academic success in a positive, nurturing environment. We encourage high parent and community involvement through sports coaching, special lessons, activity days and classroom assistance. All children develop strong networks through the grades. This enhances social and leadership skills through supportive friendships across age groups. Our highly-qualified staff implement quality educational programs that give every student the opportunity to reach their potential. Innovative technology programs prepare our students for their future. We offer a wide range of extracurricular activities including many major educational excursions, public speaking, sports programs, interschool days and a focus on sustainable living programs.  

We offer a very effective transition programme in Terms 3 & 4.  We employ an early education teacher specifically for the role.  This programme allows children exposure to routines, early academic intervention and the ability to prepare themselves for the challanges of Kindergarden. We invite you to come in for a visit to see the great education on offer for your child. 

We welcome students and their families to our well resourced school, which provides a consistent, safe and supportive environment in which all our students can reach their full potential.

Our school aims to assist in the development of happy children who are good citizens, always caring of others, motivated, conscientious, confident and self-disciplined. 

Due to our small class size and outstanding student to teacher ratios, we are able to provide each of our students with a learning plan specifically tailored to their individual needs and talents. 

Ebor Public School is special in that each of our students has their own computer, which is dedicated to their use of technology across all the Key Learning Areas. 

New programs include our environmental education community partnerships and our achievements in the creative and practical Arts. 

Literacy and numeracy are school focus areas, which are further supported by extra Department of Education staffing and funding. 

Students participate in regular excursions and Combined Small Schools' Days, providing many opportunities for students to interact and learn within a large group of peers. 

We have a supportive parents and citizens' association (P&C) with parents who are invited to be actively involved in their children's school life. If you are interested in any special activities, such as supporting student reading, being involved in the Active After School Communities (AASC) sports program, or have other talents you would like to share, you will be more than welcome at our small school! 

Ebor Public School plays an important role in our community by providing a focal point for many community and school based meetings or activities. 

The pride we have in our school is reflected in our school motto: While we learn we grow. 

Fairfax Public School is situated 42 kilometres from Narrabri in the foothills of the Nandewar Ranges. It is central to the farming and grazing community of Maules Creek.

The school: provides a strong foundation of lifelong learning through a range of stimulating and effective teaching and learning experiences across all key learning areas; recognises student diversity and the need to develop independence and self-confidence through the implementation of individual learning and support programs; values and promotes effective learning partnerships with parents, students and the community in order to achieve significant social and learning outcomes; reflects our shared vision through the school motto, 'Not Many But Much'.

Gwabegar Public School strives to achieve a quality education for all students, while promoting personal growth and self-esteem. The physical presentation of the school grounds and classroom reflects the pride that the students and staff feel about their school.

Kelly's Plains School is a community school where communication between children, teachers and parents is emphasised.

Students are encouraged to take responsibility and a leadership role in the school, supported by a caring community of teachers and parents who all work together for the good of the students.

Relationships between all groups are strong, with many parents visiting the school on a daily basis.

Mutual respect is a key feature of the school, resulting in well behaved students who are proud of their school and who are well disciplined.

The school is well resourced and boasts a well laid out, extensive playground with plenty of equipment to encourage physical play.

The teachers and students at Martin's Gully Public School work together within a happy and supportive educational environment to ensure that everyone realises their full potential.

Situated on the southern outskirts of Armidale, with a school population of approximately 170 students, we enjoy a reputation as a high achieving school where strong emphasis is placed on literacy and numeracy, and where children are encouraged to take part in a wide range of creative, academic, sporting and personal development activities.

We are a member of the Armidale Community of Public Schools working together to provide the best possible education for all students through extension programs and activities in literacy, numeracy, science, creative arts and sport. Our primary-secondary transition programs promote important links with our neighbouring high school.

We are well resourced and provide the students access to the latest technologies. Students have access to computers both in their classroom and via a computer lab. All classrooms have interactive whiteboards and innovative software contributing to quality teaching in every classroom.

The school promotes its positive, family ethos through parent participation in their children's education and an active Parents and Citizens Association. The school supports and encourages student leadership, and promotes the values of care, concern and cooperation amongst the school community.

Our attractive grounds, rural outlook and expansive playgrounds complement our excellent learning facilities.

Making a decision about schooling for your children can be one of the biggest decisions you make as a parent. You are not only deciding what form of education you would like; you are also making a decision to become part of a learning community. We believe that parents are the most vital teachers in a child’s life. Our desire is to partner with you and share in the joy of educating your child. We will seek to work alongside you during your time as part of our school community. We believe the relationship between you and your school is pivotal to your child’s growth

Our staff are passionate Christian educators who respond innovatively to the needs of our students and the community. We maintain small class sizes that cater for students and create tailored education journeys that work with the needs of the individual and their family.

Like you as parents, we are on a continual journey. We continue to learn and change as we understand more about each child’s education needs and how we can best cater for every student within the classroom. We are on a ‘PEACE’ journey and desire to see the following displayed by all of our students, staff and parents:

• Promote Learning
• Encourage Everyone
• Act Wisely
• Care for One Another
• Enjoy God’s Grace

Narrabri High School is a comprehensive co-educational high school which caters for students from Years 7 to 12.

Situated in the New England region of NSW, the school provides educational opportunities for students from the town as well as adjacent rural areas. The school has a well developed welfare network which supports students and which emphasises a concern for their growth and their well-being.

Narrabri High School prides itself on being genuinely comprehensive and on catering for the needs and aspirations of all students. A broad and comprehensive curriculum is provided and there is a tradition of academic excellence and high achievement in sports, the visual and performing arts, student leadership and a range of other extra-curricular activities.The school is well equipped with a number of specialist facilities. It has a farm, a large hall, computer laboratories, sporting oval and well-kept grounds.

Narrabri High School enjoys close ties with the local community which enable the school to provide additional opportunities for students. It is well supported by an active parent body, the business community and liaises extensively with local primary schools and TAFE.

Narrabri Public School is situated in the centre of Narrabri and provides learning for approximately 406 students, with 31%of the school population identifying as Aboriginal.

The school buildings and grounds are attractive and well maintained. In 2016 a new administration building was constructed and provides up to date facilities and a welcoming entrance for our families.

The school is committed to their vision statement to create confident and future focussed learners through innovative and engaging teaching practices. Students are our priority and the school promotes an environment reflective of high expectations for all students in academics, sporting, cultural and social endeavours.

This vision is reinforced by our core values of respect, resilience, responsibility, inclusion and achievement, shared and supported by our students, staff, parents and local community of schools.

Our school community views Narrabri Public School as a place where all students are supported in an inclusive, safe and caring learning environment.

A very positive climate exists at the school with a mixture of beginning and highly experienced staff members keen to work together to make a difference for all students.

We promote each child's development encouraging them to make the most of knowledge, wise decision making, responsible self-direction and caring relationships.

All parents and carers are welcomed at the school and encouraged to play an important part in the life of the school and the education of their children. The active P&C and School Council are an additional avenue for parent involvement.

Narrabri PS plays an important and active role in community events and enjoys a rewarding working relationship with our local community. This interaction has lead to a greater practical involvement of our students in lifelong learning experiences.

Narrabri Public School provides students with the opportunity to engage with a myriad of learning activities. Our well-resourced school has emphasis on the use of technology, with students being able to access computers, laptops, interactive whiteboards and panel boards.

Narrabri West Public School is situated on the south western edge of the town. The school has the advantage of having a Pre-School. In part the goals and directions at Narrabri West Public School state that we aim to develop an environment in which:

• children are valued as individuals
• their abilities and talents are identified and furthered
• they experience the support of their peers
• they are not disadvantaged by any form of discrimination
• parental involvement is encouraged
• good relationships are modelled
• the children feel safe. 

Narrabri West has expansive playing spaces with 4.5 hectares of playground, track and field facilities, cricket nets and netball courts. It also has an extensive technology network with all classrooms networked and a classroom emphasis on integrating ICT.

Nemingha Public School's beautiful rural setting on the outskirts of Tamworth allows our students to grow and thrive in a safe and caring environment. 

We support approximately 200 students with a comprehensive education through our academic, sporting, performing arts and technology programs. Our highly qualified and dedicated teachers have a strong focus on their own professional learning, ensuring that their teaching standards remain second to none. This exceptional teaching is combined with a commitment to the continuous improvement of learning outcomes, particularly in the core areas of literacy and numeracy. 

We welcome the involvement of parents and our community in the school, and we are very fortunate to have outstanding support from our community, often long after their own children have moved on to high school and successful futures. 

Our community has high expectations of Nemingha Public School and our commitment is to meet and exceed those expectations in continued academic excellence.

The parents and the wider community of Niangala Public School highly value education and consider the school a valuable asset of their community. The school is a focal point for community activity and thus experiences strong parent and community support. There is high parent involvement in all aspects of school management and student programs.

The curriculum provides an environment where creativity is fostered and independent learning is encouraged and practised. There is a strong focus on literacy, numeracy, peer leadership, sport, drama and public speaking.

The school aims to equip students to be life-long learners who have a sense of self worth and personal identity and who will contribute to their society as responsible citizens. The school staff, students and parents exhibit considerable pride in all forms of presentation. This is reflected in the quality of students' work, personal appearance, public performances and care of the school environment.

Pilliga Public School is a unique educational facility providing excellent education for children from the Pilliga township and surrounding properties. The school buildings and grounds are exceptionally well maintained. 

The school's role in the community is of great significance. It is an inclusive community school wilth the school community feeling a strong sense of ownership and empowerment.

Pilliga Public School is a unique educational facility, situated on the North-West corner of the Pilliga Forest, 100kms west of Narrabri and 100kms east of Walgett. It is a P6 school with 12 students. K-6. The School's teaching and learning occurs in an inclusive, safe and caring environment, providing opportunities for all students to achieve.

The school provides individual enrichment for students whilst ensuring comprehensive educational experiences that enhance academic, cultural, physical and social development.

Within the small school environment children are encouraged to work independently and co-operatively and become self-motivated learners.

The emphasis is on the basic skills areas of literacy and numeracy, but the school also provides a wide range of experiences, particularly in creative arts.

Here at Sacred Heart, we know the importance of a holistic education for every child who enters our school gates each morning. This includes their academic, social, emotional and spiritual education. An authentic Catholic school is more than just a place where children learn the curriculum. It is a place where every student’s voice is heard, respected and valued.

We know that strong relationships with our parents form the cornerstone of a strong school. As parents, you are your child’s first educator and you know them best. We strive to work together with parents and carers to ensure that every child feels safe and happy at school. Our school staff have formed wonderful relationships with our families and we work together for the benefit of every child.

We are a Catholic Professional Learning Community that forms a part of the Armidale Catholic Diocese. We know the importance of genuine and authentic collaboration and work together with our students to instil these values into every school day. Our classrooms are equipped with contemporary furniture and learning spaces to foster collaboration and students have opportunities to utilise technology in the classroom through the use of Chromebooks for rich learning tasks.

St Francis Xavier’s Primary School is a co-educational Catholic Primary school (K- 6) in the Armidale Diocese and is situated in the rural town of Narrabri. Established in 1885 by the Sisters of St Joseph, the school has continued to grow and thrive, providing a quality Catholic education for over a  hundred years. St Francis Xavier’s is a modern, well-equipped school that continues the traditions of the past.

St Francis Xavier’s offers a comprehensive and diverse curriculum that engages and empowers the learner in real and relevant learning experiences. A strong leadership program allows for students to make a difference within the school and the wider community.

At St Francis Xavier’s we enable a real knowledge of Christ as a model, to be experienced in all aspects of school life. We aim to create the richest possible learning environment for the intellectual, emotional, physical, social, and spiritual development of our learners. Highly professional teachers understand the needs of the whole child and foster a love of learning.

St Francis Xavier’s is an energetic school community where staff, parents, and students work collaboratively to develop a cohesive approach to education.

St Joseph’s Primary School was founded by the Religious Order, Sisters of St Joseph, in 1909. This order, founded by Saint Mary MacKillop, opened schools in rural areas to assist those in isolated regions to have a quality education. They also embraced a sense of sustainability, respect for the environment, and the cultures of Australia’s First Peoples and established schools in areas that incorporated local customs and taught students in their traditional ways.

At St Joseph’s Primary School Wee Waa, they strive to provide a quality education that supports our founders’ vision. They have high expectations of their students where we encourage creativity, a sense of faith, and respect for local cultures and environment.

Students, staff and the community at Walcha Central work together to provide a quality education, K-12, which encourages all students in leadership and responsibility and to achieve their personal best. Students enjoy a broad and responsive curriculum delivered by highly qualified and professional staff in a friendly and safe environment. Outstanding Higher School Certificate results are obtained and have been sustained over recent years. Parent and community members are encouraged to participate fully in the life of their local public school. Further, a consistent program of religious education is provided by community members.

The Warialda High community guides each student towards independent and responsible citizenship by providing a balanced and relevant curriculum within a caring and stimulating environment. Our school offers the widest possible range of subjects to prepare students for life after school, whether in the work force, at university, or in other training institutions. The school encourages as many students as possible to graduate with the dual accreditation of a Higher School Certificate and industry recognised knowledge and skills.All our students are given many opportunities to participate in academic, cultural, vocational and sporting activities.

Warialda High draws students from the township of Warialda as well as from surrounding villages and towns up to eighty kilometres away. A committed School Council and an active Parents and Citizens' Association (P&C) provide positive and valued input into school decision-making. Our school and the wider community maintain a close and mutually supportive relationship, particularly in the areas of sport and vocational education. We are proud of the education we offer our community and the opportunities we provide for individual success now and in the future.

Wee Waa Public School is an educationally progressive and innovative school. Our emphasis is on providing quality learning through a combined teacher, parent and student approach. We care, we listen, and we work together to make our school a safe, happy and caring place.

A very positive climate exists in both the classroom and the playground. Parents feel welcome and we regularly see parents in the school, working with teachers, enjoying a sausage sizzle or lunch in a picnic like atmosphere with their children. Our school prepares children for the future. It is a place where children learn about life, learn to work in a team, learn to become tolerant and caring and feel able to take risks without being seen as failures.

We are leaders in our town, providing and continuing to provide support and training in a vast array of areas for our parents, teachers, students and the wider community. "We aim for the future and we value the past".

Woolbrook Public School provides our students with the opportunity to achieve their potential in a supportive environment, but also one that challenges them with high expectations for their success.  We encourage parents to become more familiar with their children's progress and the teaching and learning strategies employed by our school.

Yarrowitch is a small isolated school situated fifty kilometres east of Walcha.

The school, established in 1887, serves a rural community. The school is located in picturesque grounds with excellent facilities and is the focal point of the local community.

Yarrowitch Public School will provide a happy, caring and positively reinforced learning environment in which pupils will reach their optimum potential. Emphasis will continue to be placed on high standards in literacy and numerary through teacher and parent inservicing and the purchase and use of related hands-on resources.

At Esteem Kids Group, we provide education and care for your kids with a personal touch. We focus on creating supportive environments and authentic relationships for children, families and communities that help to encourage creativity, passion, and curiosity in life.

Esteem Kids Group is an Out of School Hours Care centre that can help parents and carers feel confident in their children’s safety and education at all times of the year. The family-owned business is dedicated to providing the personal touch needed to encourage kids in their learning and growth and strives to create warm and authentic relationships that are long-lasting and satisfactory.

We’re part of your village at Community Kids Narrabri Child Care and Early Education Centre. Our early learning and long day care centre is ideally located for families living or commuting through Old Cemetery Road, Newell Highway and Spencer Street. We are conveniently located just down the road from Narrabri Public School, St Francis Xaviers School and Narrabri Station.

As soon as you walk through the doors of Narrabri child care centre, you will experience a world where children are inspired to explore, learn and grow. Our spacious outdoor environments include a dry creek bed, play area and a sandpit to engage all the senses. Children are provided time and space for uninterrupted play as they explore the outdoor spaces to test their limits and develop strength, balance, and self-confidence. 

Our indoor environments invite exploration with quality resources and learning experiences. Children marvel, create, and test out their ideas as they play with a range of materials in purposeful play spaces. Our team of experienced educators plan play-based learning experiences around children’s interests and learning goals. Literacy and numeracy concepts are embedded in play-based learning, as children engage as architects, storytellers, scientists, artists and designers. You will also receive daily photos and updates of your child's learning and development through our parent app - Xplor.

You won’t need to worry about packing lunch and snacks for your child. We provide healthy, freshly made meals created daily by our in-house cook, catering for all dietary requirements including halal meals. Shared mealtimes between children and educators grow relationships, with opportunities to share stories and experiences, and model healthy eating practices. Allow us to treat you to a hot coffee and a snack during your morning drop-off.  

Our preschool operates on a full day session basis. Children attend Monday and Tuesday or Thursday and Friday, with each group attending on alternate Wednesdays, creating a five day fortnight pattern. The children attend for the full year prior to Kindergarten enrolment.

We provide a program which enables the individual child to develop their natural curiosity to learn about themselves and the world around them. To do this we employ developmentally appropriate play experiences and activities based on the children's interests and abilities at the time.

We take into account the child's previous experiences and their individual needs and differences, and from this, an appropriate program is devised. It will include activities such as painting, drawing, pasting, collage, block building, puzzles, group games, music, movement, stories, role playing, sand and water play and other outdoor activities.

Ooranga educational programs are provided, based on the developmental needs, interests and experience of each child. At Ooranga  our  mission  is  to  support  individual  child  development through  the  provision  of  high quality  education  and  care  in  your  local  community.  Our educators do this by providing  a  weekly program  which  is  developed  by  observing  and  engaging  with  each  child.

Boggabri preschool is located on the corner of Laidlaw and Caxton street, on the premises of Sacred Heart Primary School. The fenced outdoor area has a large sandpit, bike path, play equipment, garden beds and cubby house.