Port Macquarie Steiner School marks milestone as construction begins on new campus

CONSTRUCTION is now underway on the first stage of Port Macquarie Steiner School’s new campus on John Oxley Drive.

Federal Member for Cowper Pat Conaghan joined the school community on Friday 28 November, to celebrate the start of work.

“The initial funding of $975,000 was awarded in 2022 by the Coalition Government under the Capital Grants Program, with additional funding of $470,000 subsequently provided in 2024 and $900,000 in 2025, which is wonderful to see,” Mr Conaghan said.

The project has also received strong support from Building Fund donors, general fundraising, and the wider community.

“Investment in regional education is vital, particularly for schools like the Port Macquarie Steiner School [which] offer  families a holistic approach to learning… that reflects the [child’s] stage of development.

“This is a fantastic outcome for the Port Macquarie community.”

Head of School Gail Sprott said, “This is an exciting milestone for our school and families.

“Our new campus will provide a space where children can explore, create, and develop into confident, compassionate learners for life.”

The campus site spans 1.7 hectares at Thrumster and will feature purpose-built classrooms, a hall, library, administration area, courtyard amphitheatre and natural play spaces.

Once complete, the school will accommodate up to 170 students and 20 staff.

“This beautiful site reflects our purpose — to nurture the whole child.

“The move strengthens our commitment to offering holistic Steiner education to families in the Port Macquarie-Hastings region,” Founding Parent and Business Manager Mel Ayriss said.

Port Macquarie Steiner School opened at Table Street in 2018 and purchased the Thrumster land in 2020.

The first three buildings in the new location are scheduled to open in the second half of 2026.

By Sis HIGGINS