From pre-school to university, government schools aplenty in the hinterland
Sure, the coast is lovely, but you also can’t go past the picturesque hinterland of the Northern Rivers. Mullumbimby, Alstonville and Bangalow are three charming towns set inland from the the main centres of Byron Bay and Ballina, but close enough that if you do feel like a day at the beach, it’s just a quick drive! Truly the best of both worlds.
Ensuring children have access to the right education in order to thrive and grow, all while learning about the world around them, is often one of the main reasons parents choose to move towns or cities. And it just so happens that these three towns have a great bunch of schools, perfect for families looking for a place to settle down.
Primary schools
Alstonville Public School has a roll of around 500 students, and is located in the village of Alstonville that overlooks the coastline of Ballina, as well as the orchards in the surrounding valleys. From concert band to choir, public speaking, debating, dance and sports, the school provides a variety of extra-curricular activities as a balance to their progressive, project-based learning program.
Mullumbimby Public School is inland from Byron Bay and is strongly supported by an active Parents and Citizens Association. Enrollment sits at around 250 students, and the school is committed to providing a range of learning opportunities through innovative and engaging literacy and numeracy programs.
Image source: Hinterland Christian College
Shearwater, the Mullumbimby Steiner School is set on 52 acres in Arakwal Country, and has its own biodynamic farm onsite – which is an actual working farm. It has more than 650 students, from K to Year 12, and also offers playgroups and a registered preschool for early learners. Based on the teachings of Rudolf Steiner, the school is focused on honouring the unique spirit of each child and does so with a deep and broad curriculum.
Located in the historic village of Bangalow, Bangalow Public School has around 280 students and a community of parents who are actively involved in the classroom and school programs in order to support the learning of their children. The school’s mission is to foster a lifelong love of learning that best prepares students for a happy and successful future.
Hinterland Christian College provides schooling for K-10 for those in the town of Mullumbimby and surrounds. Set at the base of Mount Chincogan, it provides a close-to-nature environment that enables a peaceful, safe and beautiful educational space in and out of the classroom. Small class sizes means there is a very personal and individual approach to learning.
High School
Mullumbimby High School is a co-ed public school with around 650 students. From a well developed academic culture, to a wide curriculum, diverse learning opportunities, sporting and extra-curricular activities, the school is very much focused on ensuring students are well engaged in their community and have an abundant choice for their future.
Image source: Mullumbimby High School
Further Education
For those interested in pursuing a career as a paramedic, Alstonville boasts its very own International Paramedic College. From basic CPR and first aid courses, to certificates in emergency first response and other health care subjects, the college offers a great base for anyone looking to upskill their medical know-how and/or train to become a paramedic.
Lismore is also home to the Southern Cross University with a stunning campus and wide range of courses, and the expansive Wollongbar TAFE, which specialises in agriculture, horticulture, fashion and IT training.
When you leave the larger centres, there is always the worry that your children may miss out on educational opportunities. But what the above list of education providers proves is that excellent schools can be found almost anywhere – ones that are very community-minded and also able to offer their students a range of exciting learning opportunities that are every bit as good as the big cities!
Interested in learning what other schools and early learning centres are in the area? Check out our business directory.
