Elizabeth Hayes Early Childhood School: First Graduation 2025

For many years, the ministry of educating young children aged three to five and teaching catechism in Papua New Guinea was carried out by sisters under trees in local settlements, and later in simple buildings. Recognizing the growing need for early childhood education, the sisters eventually established a permanent school and named it after Mother Mary Ignatius, whose vision continues to inspire this mission.

Elizabeth Hayes Early Childhood School, located in Papua New Guinea, opened in 2023 to provide quality education, nurture a love for learning from an early age, and form children in faith. Despite limited space and staffing, enrollment has grown from 109 students in 2023 to 150 students in 2025, reflecting strong community trust and need.

The year 2025 brought further blessings with the construction of a new School Administration Building. Work began in February with land clearing and was completed within five months and two weeks. Transporting materials from Wewak proved challenging due to blocked roads, forcing reliance on slow cargo shipping. Through these difficulties, the community experienced God’s providence through the intercession of Elizabeth Hayes. The building includes two offices, a tea room, and a conference room. It was officially opened and blessed on 25 November 2025 during the school’s closing and thanksgiving Mass, followed by joyful celebrations of singing, creative dances, and a shared meal.

A comfortable sitting area for parents and guardians was also built near the administration block, providing a peaceful space while waiting for children.

The following day, 26 November 2025, the school celebrated its first Preparatory graduation. Thirty-seven students completed the program, leaving with confidence, joy, and readiness for the next stage of education. This milestone affirmed the school’s mission to nurture young minds and hearts for the future.