Our Lady of Dolours Catholic Primary School: No child left out

Our Lady of Dolours Catholic Primary School in Chatswood has a simple vision for its students: to make sure no child feels left out.

A philosophy of inclusion is at the heart of the new Principal’s approach to leading Our Lady of Dolours Catholic Primary School.

“I’m very much about inclusive education,” said Marco Ianni, who took over the role as Principal at the Chatswood primary school in January 2021.

“We need to cater to the needs of all students in a school that allows everybody to participate and take a contribution.”

Our Lady of Dolours Catholic Primary School

Marco Ianni took over the role as Principal at the primary school in January

Mr Ianni said the school motto really caught his attention when he first applied for the job.

“The school vision at Our Lady of Dolours is ‘Ignite, Innovate, Include’ and that really speaks to me.

It’s about getting the best potential out of each child and making sure we’re a school for everyone – whether there’s learning needs, whether children are gifted, and everything in between.”

Small class sizes a focus on making sure children of different abilities are engaged with each other and learning

Our Lady of Dolours Catholic Primary School: The new Principal

Mr Ianni, who has taught in Catholic schools in Sydney for nearly thirty years, was the Principal at Fr John Therry Catholic Primary School in Balmain-Rozelle for ten years.

He believes the Catholic system is particularly good for children because of:

Small class sizes
A focus on making sure children of different abilities are engaged in the lessons

“Catholic schools have a dual purpose – education and also the spirit of mercy, where we know kids are looked after spiritually and emotionally,” he says.

Born in Sydney, Mr Ianni attended Catholic schools and received a Master degree from Australian Catholic University. He lives in Sydney with his wife Larissa and teenage son, who also attends a Catholic school.