12 May 2022

Newly refurbished learning spaces at St Mary’s School, St Kilda East, were officially opened during a ceremony last week.

Blessed by Parish Priest Fr Jerome Santamaria, the school’s learning spaces have been transformed to support contemporary learning in a school that is almost 170 years old. Planning for the refurbishment began in 2018 and was made possible with funding from the Victorian Government. Principals of neighbouring schools and members of the School Advisory Council were present at the opening, which was broadcast throughout the school community.

‘It’s a game-changer’, said Principal Cathy Ferrari. ‘We’ve got new learning spaces and it’s given the place new energy. It’s a new foundation stone, and we’re really looking forward to building on it and going forward and seeing all the amazing things that are going to happen in our community.’

Originally opened in 1854 in the church hall, St Mary’s School was the first school operated in Victoria by the Presentation Sisters. Sr Mary, one of the school’s teachers from the 1960s, and Sr Judith, the school’s last Presentation principal, were present at the opening in honour of the school’s rich history with the Presentation Sisters.