St Pats readies for major celebrations

A MILESTONE is set to be marked by St Patrick’s College this year as the school community prepares to celebrate one hundred and thirty years since it was founded.

The doors at St Pats first opened in 1893 and founded by the Christian Brothers with just 34 students.

Since then the school has expanded significantly and currently has 1430 students including 80 boarders.

“I think for any school to reach a milestone like this is really exciting because it’s about recognising that we’ve been operating for all of that time and working to educate young men,” said principal Steven O’Connor.

“We’re really proud of that history and heritage and that we’ve been doing it for all of that time.”

As part of the effort to mark 130 years the school is set to hold a celebration dinner later this year and is also sharing the importance of the milestone with students.

“We will educate the boys that are with us in 2023 about the fact we’ve been a school for 130 years and are still thriving,” said Mr O’Connor.

“That’s something we want our boys to be conscious of.”

Now in his third year as principal, Mr O’Connor said even in this short time with the school he’s seen many changes.

“At the moment one of the most notable things happening is the construction of our new performing arts centre and that will be a really big resource,” he said.

“The other thing that we’ve done very well is refurbishing the main oval which is regarded as one of the best ovals in town.”

Other notable recent achievements at St Pats include construction of the new boarding house that was finished five years ago and the schools indigenous education program.

Students who have attended the school have gone on to achieve things in politics, music, science, sport, and dance and Mr O’Connor thanked the educators who have worked at the school over the years.

“I hope that we will continue to provide all of our boys with an education of the whole person and we will continue to be a successful school,” he said.