This Bursary is intended to support College families financially who may be struggling to access education at Mary MacKillop Catholic College. This is different to a pure scholarship, which is purely merit based. Our intention with the Bursaries at the College is to support students who have the potential to both add a lot to our community through their gifts and talents and whose family may need support in enabling attendance.

The specific criteria for the Bursary are:

- Evidence of financial need.
‘Financial need’ in this context is not simply financial hardship. The College is aware that in our community currently there are many families with two incomes who are still struggling to access opportunities for their child. In that context, the Bursary is intended to provide financial support to enable access to additional opportunities.

- Demonstrate achievement in academics and a continued effort and sustained commitment to improving academic performance.
This is an academically-tested Bursary. This does not mean the highest achiever in every subject. It does mean however consistently high achievement in all subjects (a grade point average of 4.5+ would be the expectation) as well as consistent evidence of reflection, review and attempts at academic growth.

- Show an awareness of, and appreciation for, school life and a willingness to accept the broad range of opportunities offered at Mary MacKillop.
This relates to students contributing to our College culture. Again, this does not mean doing every extra-curricular activity. Rather, it is engaging in some and importantly committing to the formation and service activities that are offered.

- Parents or caregivers of Bursary recipients are expected to provide support to College activities by volunteering to assist in events and activities when possible.
This is not intended to be overbearing. Membership of the Parent Engagement Network or support of a couple of parent-led events through the year would be an ample measure of this.

If you are interested in applying for the Christine Bethel Bursary for your child for 2027, please view our Bursary Policy below or contact our friendly Enrolments Team today.