In the early years of the colony, the only schools were ‘denominational schools’ , and these were known as ‘church schools’. There were no government schools at the time. As the population of the colony grew, it was evident that the churches were not able to teach all of the school aged children. Public education was born in 1848 with the establishment of the Board of National Education, and the establishment of the colony’s first school at Observatory Hill in Sydney the school was named the Fort Street Model School.
From humble beginnings almost 200 years ago, Catholic schools have grown to become the largest provider of schooling in Australia (outside government) with one in five school age students attending a Catholic school. This represents some 768,000 students in 1,751 schools across the country and employing 98,000 teachers and staff. Nearly 40 per cent of Catholic schools are located outside of metropolitan cities in regional, rural and remote communities.
Catholic schools in Australia are flourishing, as a direct result of the dedication of passionate priests, religious and lay people who have worked tirelessly to educate students and nurture faith. These efforts rely heavily on the support of staff, families and students. Notwithstanding the success of Catholic schools in Australia, our journey has not been without difficulties and struggles.
The bicentenary commemorates the anniversary of the first official Catholic school in Australia, founded in October 1820 by Irish Catholic priest Fr John Therry.
The school, which Catholic historians believe was located on Hunter Street in Parramatta, taught 31 students. An Irish Catholic convict George Marley (also identified as George Morley), who was sent to the colony, opened the school for Fr Therry and ran it for three years.
This school was transferred to the site of the present St Patrick’s Cathedral in 1837 and was entrusted to the care of the Marist Brothers in 1875.
“Over 200 years Catholic schools have educated millions of Australian students,” National Catholic education Executive Director Jacinta Collins said.
National theme :
A national theme, “Faith in the future” has been developed for the 200 years celebrations. The theme reflects the core purpose of Catholic education to form students in their faith, and to provide an education that enables our graduates to make a meaningful contribution to the world. The theme reflects our commitment to build on the great work of those who have come before us and to provide a Catholic education for future generations of students in a world that is rapidly changing and poses new challenges for Catholic school communities. Yet, we have faith that we can face these challenges and continue to build on, and strengthen, our mission of Catholic education.
About the logo :
The Christian cross is the central element of the logo and represents the faith dimension of Catholic schools and our mission of service in Christ. The Southern Cross and outline of Australia represents the Great South Land of Australia. Dots are used as a key design element connecting to the traditional custodians of the land – the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. The colours – burnt red and yellow – represent the desert in the heart of the Australian outback, contrasting with the deep blue representing the Southern sky and ocean surrounding our continent.
For more information check out these website, videos and songs
To be still attending a Catholic school whilst the celebration of 200 years of Catholic Education in Australia takes place and to be part of the dynamic religious community we have at Ashfield is a true blessing.
Este Fideles
-Zali x
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