“Women in time to come will do much.” Those inspiring words of Mary Ward still resonate here at Loreto Normanhurst. This independent Catholic school for girls has a rich history. It prepares young women to shape the world.
Loreto Normanhurst began its journey in 1897. The Loreto Sisters established it. They are part of a worldwide network of Loreto schools. There are six Loreto schools in Australia. Mother Gonzaga Barry led the nuns from Ballarat Victoria. They first established a school in rented premises at Randwick in 1892.
Mr. Frank Coffee offered them a property a short distance from his home. As the nuns arrived at the site the sun burst through the clouds. It formed a rainbow over the estate. The foundation stone for the new convent was laid on 28 February 1897 by Cardinal Moran.
Initially named Loreto Convent Hornsby it welcomed 15 boarders. These girls came from Randwick. Loreto Normanhurst primarily served as a boarding school. It also accepted day students from the local Hornsby area. This included young boys.
After World War II the surrounding area grew. Day girl numbers began to equal that of boarders. Eventually they overtook them. Now there are many more day girls than boarders.
Loreto Normanhurst fosters a strong sense of community. The school uses a house system. Eight houses play an important role in the pastoral program. These houses are Aston Barry Kendall Kuring-gai Maye Mornane Mulhall and Ward.
The school’s crest displays four symbols. The Cross symbolizes faith. The Sacred Heart symbolizes Jesus’ love and sacrifice. The Heart of Mary symbolizes her love of God. The Anchor of Hope represents Mary the Mother of God. The motto “Cruci Dum Spiro Fido” means “as long as I live I put my trust in Christ who died for me”.
Many buildings are named after significant people in Loreto’s history. These include the Mary Ward Centre Gonzaga Barry Centre and Deirdre Rofe Centre. Also the Mother Evangeline Kendall Visual Arts Centre.
Loreto Normanhurst has many notable alumnae. They include broadcaster Jenny Brockie. Also human rights lawyer Kate Eastman SC. Musician Gordi also attended. As did Catherine Livingstone former director of Macquarie Bank.
Loreto Normanhurst continues to uphold Mary Ward’s vision. It empowers young women. They grow with confidence compassion and a commitment to social justice.