Have you ever wondered about the story etched into the very stones of St Aloysius’ College? This esteemed institution stands proudly in Kirribilli. It has witnessed generations of young men pass through its halls. It is a place of tradition and transformation.
St Aloysius’ College was founded in 1879 by Father Joseph Dalton SJ. He established it at St Kilda House in Woolloomooloo. This makes St Aloysius’ the oldest independent Catholic boys’ day school in New South Wales. The school’s motto, “Ad Majora Natus”, meaning “Born for Greater Things”, encapsulates its mission.
Initially, the College faced challenges. The Woolloomooloo site proved unsuitable. Transport was difficult. Locals resented the “college boys”. In 1883, St Aloysius’ College relocated to Auburn Villa in Darlinghurst. The name was changed to honour St Aloysius, the patron saint of youth. However, this location was later demolished to make way for St Margaret’s Maternity Hospital.
In 1903, St Aloysius’ College found its permanent home here in Milsons Point. Cardinal Moran urged the Jesuits to move near the local church. The College commenced classes with fewer than 50 students. Enrolments grew rapidly. Additional accommodation became necessary. A wooden building was erected. It housed classrooms and a study hall.
During the war years, student numbers dropped. The College prepared for potential Japanese attacks with sandbags and fortifications. Post-war, the College faced a critical decision about its future. Options included closing, relocating, or redeveloping the Milsons Point site. The decision was made to stay and rebuild.
In 1961, a major rebuilding project began. The limitations of the site presented challenges. The Great Hall’s design was altered. The initial plan for a theatre or concert hall was abandoned. Instead, it became a basketball court. However, architectural evidence of the original design remains visible today.
To celebrate its centenary in 1979, the College embarked on its final building stage. This involved demolishing the former church, Star of the Sea. It had been used by various denominations. The original chapel had acted as an art room until 1981 when it was demolished.
New buildings were constructed. These included administration offices, a canteen, a library, and classrooms. In 1991, St Aloysius’ College purchased the Milsons Point Primary School to develop a Junior School Campus. In 1995, the Jesuit community moved out of the main building. This allowed for renovations and a new Senior School.
In 2002, the College acquired a choir organ from Canada for St Joseph’s Basilica. This replaced the previous organ, which had become unreliable. The new organ was successfully installed. It now enriches school masses and provides opportunities for music education.
In 2020, a new campus in Rozelle was proposed for Year 9 students. This initiative, known as Plan Magis, aimed to enhance their learning experience. Today, St Aloysius’ College Rozelle is a permanent part of the school.
St Aloysius’ College is more than just bricks and mortar. It is a community. It is a place where young men are encouraged to strive for greater things. The College is conducted in the Jesuit tradition. It is part of a worldwide network of schools and universities.
The aim of a Jesuit education is to develop well-rounded individuals. They should be intellectually competent and open to growth. They should be religious, loving, and committed to doing justice. St Aloysius’ College strives to instill these values in its students.
The St. Aloysius’ College Old Boys’ Union connects alumni to the college. These Old Boys have access to services and opportunities at St Aloysius College.
As you stand here, consider the rich history and enduring legacy of St Aloysius’ College. From its humble beginnings to its present-day prominence, it remains a beacon of education. Its graduates are making a difference in the world. The spirit of “Ad Majora Natus” lives on.