SAINT Mary Mackillop College had double the reason to embrace the new school year, as it welcomed 11 kindergarten students at its new site.
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The school opened its doors at Charles Sturt University (CSU) South Campus today, moving from its Leagues Club site of eight years over the Christmas break.
"It is usually hectic enough welcoming a new foundation class to school let alone welcoming the whole school community to a new school site," Saint Mary Mackillop College primary school co-ordinator John Burton said.
"Many people have been working tirelessly over the holidays to get the school ready in time for school to go back.
"Although there is still work to be done, much has been achieved and we are very thankful to all the tradesmen and all the school community volunteers for their efforts in getting the school to where it is today.
"It has been a real show of community spirit and one which has bonded our community together."
The school welcomed 11 new kindergarten children to take the total student count to 115.
Saint Mary Mackillop College's plan to use the Leagues Club site for a year while permanent premises were organised at San Isidore fell through, prompting the move to South Campus.
The school has signed an agreement with CSU for a five-year lease with the option to buy at the end.
"It is a wonderful feeling to be at the new school site," Mr Burton said.
"There has been a tremendous amount of work and sacrifice go into the place and it is wonderful to see the smiling faces of our students back and eager to learn.
"We plan to be here at this school site for many years to come and are looking forward to further growth."
Steven and Caronne Vella farewelled their youngest daughter Elizabeth, 5, as she joined sisters Rosemary and Stephanie, years five and four respectively, on her first day of kindergarten.
"She's our youngest so it feels like a change," Mr Vella said.
"It's also the first year (at the new site) so it adds to the excitement.
"It's a nice change.
"It's lovely to know they'll be together, looking out for each other."
Mrs Vella said Elizabeth was confident and cheerful ahead of the new school year.
"She was very confident," Mrs Vella said.
"It's the end of an era.
"It'll be an empty nest now."