Learn to profit. That’s the motto emblazoned on the uniform of St Paul’s Catholic College.
St Paul’s Catholic College stands here today. It is a testament to faith and education in Sunbury-on-Thames. The college has a rich history. It evolved from two well-respected schools. Cardinal Godfrey Boys’ School and St Teresa’s Girls’ School merged in September 1988. This created the unified St Paul’s Catholic College.
The story of St Paul’s Catholic College begins long before 1988. It intertwines with local history and religious dedication. The Sisters of Charity of St Paul’s played a crucial role. They purchased Sunbury Manor in 1926. This manor became St Teresa’s Convent School.
An elegant house forms the heart of St Paul’s Catholic College. Built between 1830 and 1837, it is a Grade II listed building. Its architecture includes a Doric porch and a central round window. This building once served as the manor house. William Anthony Mitchison, Lord of the Manor, lived here in 1898. He planted the avenue of chestnut trees that still graces The Avenue today.
The Sisters of Charity of St Paul’s shaped Catholic education in this area. They established St Teresa’s Convent School. Changes in education policy led to its incorporation into the public sector. A new school building was constructed to accommodate the growing number of students.
Cardinal Godfrey School also has a significant place in the history of St Paul’s Catholic College. It moved to the current site in 1975. This area is still known as the ‘South Site’. The school expanded rapidly. It established a strong reputation in the community.
The amalgamation of the boys’ and girls’ schools in 1988 marked a new chapter. St Paul’s Catholic College was named to honor the Sisters of Charity of St Paul’s. Students designed the school badge and tie. Carla James and Michael Brown won the competition.
St Paul’s Catholic College became a Technology College. This designation enhanced opportunities in design, technology, sciences and arts. The school offered an Engineering Diploma course. This furthered its specialisation.
In December 2022, St Paul’s Catholic College converted to academy status. It is now sponsored by the Ascension Catholic Academy Trust. The school remains under the jurisdiction of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Westminster.
The college shield shows a capital S and P. An open book with quill stands for St Paul’s contribution to the New Testament. A sword represents his preaching and martyrdom.
Several headteachers have led St Paul’s Catholic College. Edmund Kaye was the first headteacher. He served until 2005. Simon Uttley then took on the role until 2011. Ceri Bacon was appointed in 2011 and left in 2015. James Mc Nulty is the current headteacher.
St Paul’s Catholic College has produced notable alumni. Dave Sisi, Curtis Langdon, Caolan Englefield and Michael Dykes are professional rugby players. They all attended St Paul’s.
Prayer and worship are integral to the Catholic life of St Paul’s Catholic College. They underpin the spiritual and moral development of students. The school motto, “Disce Prodesse,” encourages students to learn to improve the world.
St Paul’s Catholic College stands as a beacon of education. It embodies faith, history and community spirit. The college continues to evolve. It prepares students to make a positive impact on the world.