Grafton, Clarence Valley fastest growing schools revealed for 2023

The Clarence Valley’s fastest growing schools — and the ones going backwards — have been revealed. See where your school ranked.

The Clarence’s fastest growing schools.

Federal government data has revealed the growth and decrease of student numbers in schools across the Clarence Valley.

Maclean Public School was the region’s fastest growing school, with enrolments increasing by 42 per cent between 2018 and 2022.

The second fastest growing school was South Grafton High School, recording a 40 per cent increase, while Yamba’s St James’ Primary School and McAuley Catholic College (Clarenza) were the fastest growing non-government schools.

Meanwhile, the analysis also highlighted the Clarence schools in decline with Cowper Public School recording an 80 per cent drop over five years.

Nymboida Public School was the second school going backwards for enrolment with a 42 per cent drop and Old Bonalda Public School was the third with a 35 per cent decline.

The Australian Curriculum, Assessment and Reporting Authority figures are the most up to date enrolment numbers that include all state and private schools nationally.

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A sense of community

Daniel Moar (far left) at the opening of South Grafton High School's Bush Tucker Garden.

Daniel Moar, principal at South Grafton High, is new to the school but says has seen already the reasons behind its growth.

“We cater for students with a wide range of needs and work closely with our community to provide the best possible outcomes for them,” he said.

“Our close links with the local primary schools and strong transition programs when entering high school and post school destinations are also a factor.”

Mr Moar said the staff’s dedication and the opportunities available for students are two of the driving forces behind its success.

“When speaking with my school captains they talk of a positive school environment where learning is encouraged and there is a sense of community and community involvement,” he said.

“I see that our staff care about the students we teach and the positive relationships that underpin a strong school culture.”

One of the school’s recent successes was the official opening of the Bush Tucker Garden at Beresford Park.

Students and teachers from South Grafton High School worked with Landcare and the community to create this new school asset.

Where does your school rank?

Schools with fastest growth between 2018 and 2022:

Maclean Public School: 42 per cent

South Grafton High School: 40 per cent

Coutts Crossing Public School: 39 per cent

Chatsworth Island Public School: 23 per cent

Gillwinga Public School: 23 per cent

St James Primary School: 21 per cent

Copmanhurst Public School: 15 per cent

McAuley Catholic College: 14 per cent

St Joseph’s Primary School (Yamba): 14 per cent

Ulmarra Public School: 14 per cent

Schools in decline 2018-2022:

Cowper Public School: 80 per cent

Nymboida Public School: 42 per cent

Old Bonalbo Public School: 35 per cent

Iluka Public School: 34 per cent

Wooli Public School: 31 per cent

Harwood Island Public School: 28 per cent

Bonalbo Central School: 27 per cent

St Joseph’s Primary School (South Grafton): 25 per cent

Pacific Valley Christian School: 24 per cent

Grafton Public School: 20 per cent.