School information

Welcome Mr Dainton

Chris Dainton grew up in Shepparton and attended Guthrie Street Primary School and GV Grammar. After developing a passion for the performing arts as a student, Chris moved to Melbourne after graduating Year 12 to study Drama and Media at Deakin University Burwood. In his final year, Chris decided to enrol in the Diploma of Education at The University of Melbourne to pursue a career in education. The opportunity to work in his passion areas and to share his knowledge with young people was life changing and Chris took his first job as a teacher (Drama/Media) at Shepparton High School in 2007. 

In 2011 Chris accepted a position at St Ignatius College Drysdale teaching Drama, Theatre Studies and RE. In a whirlwind seven years, Chris and Nicole enjoyed wonderful teaching careers, bought their first home, got married, and were blessed with two baby boys (Archie and George). In 2018 the family moved back north to Shepparton where Chris was given the opportunity to undertake the DP Catholic Identity role at St Mary of the Angels College Nathalia. Baby Oliver was born to round out the family, and Chris was provided with some amazing opportunities at SMOTA including leading pilgrimage to Rome/Assisi, completing his Masters of Religious Education, and undertaking the Acting Principal role for a term.

Chris worked at Notre Dame College Shepparton as DP Catholic Identity before accepting the role to join the team at St Mary’s Echuca. 

Chris will complete his Masters of Business Administration by February 2022 and has enjoyed learning about the various aspects of management and leadership. Chris is a parishioner at St Brendan’s Shepparton where he plays music at the Saturday evening Mass. He is a keen golfer and loves travelling with Nicole and the boys.

Chris is thrilled to be joining St Mary’s Echuca and looks forward to meeting students, families and staff in Term 4 2022 and into the new year. He hopes to serve the school with humility and to add to the hope and joy that exists within the St Mary’s Catholic community.

2023 School Intentions

If your child/family are not planning to attend St Mary's Primary School in 2023 please let the office know ASAP.