CESA freezes fees
Local
Catholic school families will benefit from a freeze on tuition fees at 84 Diocesan schools for the 2024 year.
It will be the third consecutive year that Catholic Education SA (CESA)has decided not to raise fees.
“We recognise that cost-of-living increases are putting significant pressure on families,” said Neil McGoran, executive director of CESA.
“The bottom line is families matter. At a time when South Australians are experiencing high inflation, increasing interest rates and mortgage pressure, families need affordable school fees more than ever.
“Growth in enrolments across the State in our 101 Catholic schools, together with prudent financial management, puts us in a position where we are able to hold tuition fees at this year’s level.”
The announcement comes as the sector continues to grow with 1400 Reception students starting at Catholic schools in Term 3. More than 52,300 students now attend the Diocesan and separately governed Catholic schools in South Australia.
Dr McGoran said the annual census, conducted in August, showed enrolments have risen by more than 4 per cent over the past 12 months.
School fees will remain unchanged in 2024 for 59 Diocesan primary schools, 22 Diocesan secondary and combined colleges and two special schools – St Patrick’s and Our Lady of La Vang. Compass Catholic Community, a special assistance school, remains fee-free.
Further fee remissions and reductions are available to any family struggling to pay school fees due to financial pressures.
Trish Jarvis, executive officer of Catholic School Parents SA, said families would undoubtedly appreciate the decision.
“With the rising pressures of the cost of living, the stability in their child’s education expenses will be met with great approval,” she said.
“This will allow parents to continue to focus on their child’s educational and spiritual development, alleviating any additional stress related to raising school fees.”
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