20 September 2023

New spaces at St Patrick’s School, Murrumbeena, have been officially opened and blessed to provide the best learning opportunities for the students.

The works, including new indoor and outdoor learning areas as well as the creation of St Patrick’s Kindergarten, have revitalised the school. Principal Joanne Soulsby paid tribute to the students, teachers and families for their patience during the construction. ‘This journey has been a testament to the power of community, dedication and vision’, she said. ‘You’ve shown that a strong community can overcome any obstacle when united by a common goal. Together we’re creating an environment where future generations of students will learn, grow and thrive.’

The school was joined by local member of parliament, the Hon Steve Dimopoulos, as well as representatives from Melbourne Archdiocese Catholic Schools (MACS) including Dr Nigel Zimmermann, Director of Catholic Mission and Identity. Archbishop Peter A Comensoli led the community in a liturgy before blessing the new facilities.

The opening celebrations also recognised and thanked the school’s Parents and Friends group for raising funds for a new running track. The track was lovingly dedicated to the school’s beloved PE teacher, Michelle Barclay, who lost her battle with cancer in 2020.