Families in Strathnairn, Canberra, are eagerly preparing for the opening of the new Strathnairn Primary School, set to commence in 2026. This school is expected to provide much-needed educational options for local residents, particularly as many families transition from the Catholic school system to public education.
Among those looking forward to this change is Mona Soleymani, who moved to the area five years ago. She and her family chose Strathnairn for its appealing housing market and scenic surroundings. Her daughter, Anita Soleymani, is set to begin Year 2 at the new school. “We always wanted her to go to a public school, but there weren’t enough choices here,” Ms Soleymani stated.
The decision to enroll Anita at Strathnairn School stems from several factors. Ms Soleymani appreciates the public school curriculum, the absence of tuition fees, and the lack of religious classes, which align with her family’s educational preferences. She expressed confidence in the new school, noting, “I believe in the new schools, because when something starts fresh, everything is going to be up to date based on the new principles, policies, and procedures.”
Community Engagement and School Development
The principal of Strathnairn School, Nicole Nicholson, has been actively engaging with families in the lead-up to the school’s opening. Over the past four months, she has met with prospective students and their parents to foster a sense of community and collaboration.
Ms Nicholson has emphasized the importance of understanding each family’s story and ensuring that the school can adequately meet the diverse needs of its future students. “I always like to have a really visible presence in the school with families,” she remarked. “I think it helps build more productive and positive relationships that help you weather whatever storms come, as they inevitably do when you’re dealing with humans.”
As the school construction progresses, families like the Soleymanis are excited to witness the developments. Anita has been observing the building process from a nearby park, eagerly anticipating her new school experience. “I’m excited to help my teacher, give her drawings, make new girlfriends, and learn,” she expressed.
Uniform and Logo Choices
Involving the community in the school’s identity is a priority. The school has presented three logo options for families to vote on through the government’s Your Say website, with voting open until September 21, 2025. This initiative aims to create a sense of ownership and belonging among future students and their families.
The establishment of Strathnairn Primary School represents a significant milestone for the community, fulfilling a long-held desire for accessible public education in the area. As families prepare for the upcoming school year, the anticipation and enthusiasm surrounding the new school continue to grow, promising a fresh start for students like Anita.
