History:
St Brigid's School dates back to the time of Federation. In 1901 the Sisters of Mercy took on the task of bringing a Catholic education to the children of Healesville. In humble beginnings they started, building in 1904 a fine and still-existing brick structure. In 1915 the Faithful Companions of Jesus (FCJ) took over the school and continued in that role until 1924. From the beginning of 1925 until 1988, the Sisters of St Joseph were in charge of the school and during this time many improvements were made and the school developed a strong standing within the community. From 1989 until the present day, lay teachers and principals have staffed the school. More improvements have been made over the years and the school now has 14 classrooms, an office and administration block, staff amenities, library, multi-purpose room, storage areas, as well as other internal and external facilities.
Description:
St Brigid's School is situated in the historic town of Healesville, within the beautiful Yarra Valley. Originally known for its timber, Maroondah Dam and Healesville Sanctuary, the town and valley are fast becoming one of the countries finest wine producing areas. It is indeed a lovely environment in which to live and work. Children attending St Brigid's travel from Yarra Glen, Dixons Creek, Chum Creek, Badger Creek and Toolangi. Many of these travel by bus each day in conjunction with Healesville Secondary College. The school itself comprises of several buildings that adequately cater for the needs of the children and staff, and the playing areas provide for a range of activities.
The school's curriculum is based on the current Victorian Curriculum and is adapted to meet the needs of the individuals and groups at our school. Our religious education program follows the current Archdiocese of Melbourne Religious Education Curriculum Framework.
Features:
The school's strengths would definitely be its spirit, community feel, excellent educational programs and of course the care that is shown towards all associated with the school.
St Brigid's, at the commencement of the 2017 school year, has a student population of 234 with 14 classes. The class arrangements can vary from year to year depending upon numbers at year levels, programs to be run and the needs of the children however for the past few years we have had two Prep classes, four junior classes (Years 1 and 2), four middle classes (Years 3 and 4) and four senior classes (Years 5 and 6). The total staff with full-and part-timers is 38. A number of specialist areas are also covered each year.