New Chisholm public school to include purpose-built preschool

The NSW Government has announced a new public primary school and preschool for Chisholm, delivering a major education infrastructure investment for one of the Hunter region’s fastest-growing communities.

The new school will be constructed on a 2.9-hectare site at 547 Raymond Terrace Road and is fully funded in the 2026–27 NSW Budget. Scheduled to open on Day 1, Term 1, 2030, the school will accommodate up to 1,000 students and help ease pressure on surrounding schools, including Thornton Public School, which is currently undergoing upgrades to meet enrolment demand.

Chisholm has experienced significant population growth over the past 15 years, yet no new public school has been built in the Maitland local government area since 2007. The investment marks a long-awaited step in planning for the education needs of one of NSW’s fastest-growing regions.

Public preschool to be delivered on site

A key feature of the project is the inclusion of a purpose-built public preschool, aligning with the Minns Government’s commitment to deliver 100 new public preschools in communities with the greatest need.

The Chisholm preschool will provide local families with access to fee-free, high-quality early learning in a convenient co-located setting. Its inclusion is expected to support smoother transitions into primary school, strengthen continuity of learning and contribute to the broader rollout of 12 new public preschools across the Hunter region.

The integrated school and preschool model reflects a growing focus on early learning as part of long-term education infrastructure planning, particularly in high-growth communities where access to local services is critical.

Modern facilities designed for future needs

The new Chisholm school will include modern classrooms, flexible learning spaces, shared common areas, support classrooms for students with additional needs, a multipurpose hall, games court, sports field and the on-site preschool.

The facilities are designed to meet current enrolment demand while supporting future growth as more families move into the area.

Strong government and local support

Deputy Premier and Minister for Education and Early Learning Prue Car described the project as a landmark investment that would give local children access to high-quality public education close to home.

Treasurer Daniel Mookhey said the 2026–27 Budget continued the government’s commitment to rebuilding public education in regional NSW, noting that investment in education delivers long-term benefits for children, families and communities.

Member for Maitland Jenny Aitchison also welcomed the announcement, highlighting the broader benefits of a local school in supporting families, jobs and a connected community.

A major step forward for Maitland's future

For a suburb that has grown rapidly without new local school infrastructure, the announcement represents a significant turning point.

The new Chisholm public school and preschool will not only help meet current demand, but also support the region’s long-term development by providing children with access to early learning and primary education within their own community.

The project forms part of the Minns Labor Government’s $9 billion investment in new and upgraded schools across NSW, including $2.1 billion dedicated to regional communities.

Read the full media release here.