St Patrick’s Primary School Parramatta recently celebrated a century of
educating students from its Ross Street location.
The school was established on that site in 1926, but its heritage spans back to 1820 when the first Catholic school in Australia was opened in Parramatta, making the city widely recognised as the birthplace of Catholic education in the country.
At a community mass to mark the occasion, Principal Bernadette Fabri explained the significance of the birthday.
“When we speak of a school turning one hundred, we are not simply marking the passing of time or just remembering the history of a building; we are in fact honouring every single person who has entered the gates of our school or who has had some connection in making St Patrick’s what it is today,” the Principal stated.
“Over one hundred years, the culture, the spirit, the sense of belonging that exists here did not happen by chance. It is the accumulated witness of people who believed this work mattered.”
Principal Fabri told Parra News it is an honour to form part of the school’s long history.
“It is hard to put into words how I feel about my connection to St Patrick’s Parramatta, but I can say that I feel it in my heart,” he explained.
“I started as a young 21-year-old beginning teacher, teaching Year 4 in a room which is now our Wellbeing Hub. I still remember those boys and girls in my first class and was delighted to meet some of them again at the 100-year anniversary mass.”
As a new teacher, she never imagined she would serve as the school’s principal years later.
“When I look back at my years in education, it has been a gift – a gift of service to these little boys and girls who are now some of our parents with their own little ones,” she said.
“I even remember some of the grandparents who were then young parents. What job enables you to journey with people over generations and with so much gratitude and love? It still takes my breath away.”
Former student Elias Wehbe attended the celebratory mass. He now has three of his own children enrolled at the historic learning institution.
“Seeing the school reach its 100-year milestone is really special,” he said.
“So much has changed over the years with facilities, technology and the way kids learn, but the heart of the school remains the same: strong Catholic values, a real sense of community, and a commitment to giving students a great, well-rounded education.”
Ally Hall joined the team 2024, and focuses on entertainment and community stories. She is a graduate of the University of South Australia.