Opened in 1891, Wales Street Primary School has been a cornerstone of Northcote and Thornbury. Principal Robyn Owens proudly welcomes you. The school fosters a lifelong love of learning.
Wales Street Primary School began months earlier in February. It was the second school in Northcote after Helen Street State School. That school had too many pupils. Wales Street Primary School initially operated in two rooms. These rooms belonged to the Northcote Wesleyan Sunday School on High Street. The school then moved to the Wales Street location. The new location had four classrooms. It also had a headmaster’s office and a bell tower. A white picket fence stood out front. Today, a chain fence stands in its place.
Wales Street Primary School was first named Prince of Wales Park State School. Later, it became Northcote Primary School No. 3139. Today, we know it simply as Wales Street Primary School.
Between 1891 and 1913, Wales Street School was connected to State School No. 824 South Preston. On July 1 1913, Wales Street became its own entity. Mr. George H. Hardress became the head teacher.
Wales Street closed in 1892. This closure was caused by an economic depression. Families moved away.
The school soon reopened. By 1900, it suffered from overcrowding.
In 1913, Wales Street accommodated 809 pupils. The school was built for only 280. Imagine up to 150 children in one classroom.
The east wing building was extended. This extension helped with overcrowding. By 1915, more land was acquired. The west wing was built. The school could now accommodate 1147 pupils.
Originally, Wales Street was on the edge of Northcote’s residential area. There was undeveloped open space to the east.
As Northcote and Thornbury grew, so did the number of children at Wales Street Primary School. In 1920, the school reached a record high of 1232 pupils. It hit a low of 340 in 1957.
Wales Street Primary School is an International Baccalaureate World School. It provides an international education to all students. This education spans from Foundation to Year 6. Through inquiry, the school develops knowledgeable students. They become intelligent and open-minded. They are encouraged to develop curiosity and wonder. These students take positive action in the world.
Wales Street Primary School values respect, responsibility and kindness. These values guide how the community interacts.
The school uniform is compulsory. The uniform colours are red and navy.
Wales Street Primary School has 605 students. There are 36 teaching staff. The student-to-teacher ratio is 17:1.
Wales Street Primary School opened its gates in 1891. It continues to thrive. It remains a central part of Northcote and Thornbury.