Three thousand students from over 300 Catholic schools from across greater Melbourne led by Celtic pipers and bearing their school banners will march at St Patrick’s Cathedral in East Melbourne tomorrow morning to mark the eve of St Patrick’s Day.

They will be joined by guests including federal and state parliamentarians for the Mass of St Patrick for Schools, the highpoint of Catholic Education Week.

‘Catholic education in Victoria draws on a tradition of service to the community stretching back over 150 years,’ Catholic Education Melbourne Executive Director Stephen Elder said.

‘Our mission is simple. We seek to provide a quality, low-fee, open and inclusive faith-based education to all who want one.

‘This year over 210,000 students – almost one in four Victorian school students – will enjoy a Catholic education in one of nearly 500 schools state-wide.

‘Catholic Education Week gives schools communities the chance to celebrate the spirit of life and hope that creates the Catholic schools difference.

‘The Mass of St Patrick for Schools lets us come together to share that spirit, recall our history, strengthen our identity and restate our faith and mission.’

The march ahead of the Mass of St Patrick for Schools will be held at St Patrick’s Cathedral, Cathedral Place, East Melbourne at 10:00 am sharp tomorrow, Friday 16 March.

Afterwards students will gather in the nearby Fitzroy Gardens for the Concert in the Park, a chance to hear the best school bands and make new friends over a picnic lunch.

Further information: Christian Kerr, Media Adviser, 03 9267 4411 or 0402 977 352

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