Imagine children protesting by candlelight. This is Woollahra Public School. It is not just old sandstone and echoing hallways. It is a place of evolution. Woollahra Public School reflects community expectations.
Established in 1878 Woollahra Public School first opened its doors with three rooms. There were 300 eager students. The school stands as one of Sydney’s oldest public schools. It reflects a journey from colony to independence.
Initially, the school was known simply as Woollahra Public School. Later, it became Woollahra Superior Public School. This change reflected its growing role. It began catering to older students. The Chisholm Building for girls was added in 1891. The Barton Building for boys followed in 1902.
In the early days class sizes were around 60 students. Imagine a teacher managing such a crowd.
From the 1930s Woollahra Public School began offering Opportunity Classes. These classes catered for academically gifted students. This tradition continues today for Years 5 and 6.
Until the late 1960s primary classes were not coeducational here. Boys and girls had separate playgrounds.
Electricity was connected to the classrooms in the late 1960s. This followed a candlelight protest. Students wanted modern facilities.
In 1961 the school’s name changed to Woollahra Demonstration School. This was because of its role in teacher education. Students from Alexander Mackie Teachers College visited. They observed demonstration lessons. The name reverted to Woollahra Public School in 1979. The teaching college moved. The lessons were no longer part of teacher training.
1978 marked Woollahra Public School’s centenary. The school received a refurbishment. Bright paint replaced faded grey. Bare floorboards were carpeted green. A time capsule was buried. A mural was painted on the School Hall. It featured Central Australia’s Olga Mountains.
Woollahra Public School’s architecture is unique. The original building showcases high Victorian Greek revival style. Benjamin Backhouse designed it. He was a proponent of the Gothic style. Later buildings adopted more functional designs. William Edmund Kemp focused on utility and colonial progress.
Woollahra Public School has adapted to changing community needs. There was growing demand for after-school care. Local residents helped upgrade facilities.
In recent years Woollahra Public School installed a 40kW solar power system. The school embraces future-focused learning. It also values its history.
Today Woollahra Public School has around 700 students. They are organized into numerous classes. The school continues to undergo refurbishments. This preserves its heritage buildings.
Woollahra Public School has shaped many notable individuals. Lana Cantrell a singer attended here. Sir John L Carrick a WWII military officer and politician was also a student. Justine Clarke an actress and musician walked these halls.
Woollahra Public School stands as a microcosm of Australia’s journey. It showcases education community and progress. It reflects the spirit of Woollahra itself.