Samantha Kelley has been appointed the foundation principal at Catherine McAuley Primary School. Picture supplied
After a decade of professional growth in North Queensland, Samantha Kelley is returning to her hometown to take on the role of foundation principal at Catherine McAuley Primary School.
With 12 years of experience in education, including senior leadership and principal roles, the mother of two views the appointment as both a professional milestone and a personal homecoming.
“Moving back to where I grew up has been incredible, not only to work but to bring my boys home,” Ms Kelley said.
As the Foundation Principal, Ms Kelley’s focus for 2026 is on setting the tone for the brand-new Catholic primary school.
“I’m incredibly excited for the opportunity,” she said.
Her mission is to move beyond bricks and mortar to establish a lasting school culture.
“I want to create a culture from the very beginning that is safe and welcoming.”
While Ms Kelley works behind the scenes on staffing and transition planning throughout 2026, the school is already looking to connect with its future students.
“To be able to do this from the ground-up and almost create a legacy is a blessing,” she said.
“We would love to start connecting with families of future students.”
Ms Kelley who has seen the plans for the primary school said the vision for the school is truly exciting.
“The facilities and contemporary learning design, with the connection to the broader education precinct will offer students an exceptional foundation for learning and wellbeing.”
Catherine McAuley Primary is the first Catholic primary school in Medowie, following in the footsteps of Catherine McAuley Catholic College and St Nicholas Early Education Centre.
“It’s creating a real community,” Ms Kelly told The Port Stephens Examiner.
“Children can start their schooling there and go the whole way through.”
If families are interested in enrolment, expressions of interest are currently live.
Catherine McAuley Primary is expected to open its doors to students in Term 1 of 2027.