Forty children. That’s how many students started at Gordon West Public School in November 1951. Imagine a small kindergarten bustling with life. This wasn’t just any school. It was built to serve the families moving into new war service homes. A brand new community needed a school. Gordon West Public School filled that need.
Gordon West Public School opened in temporary buildings. Life wasn’t easy in those early years. By February 1956 the school had grown enormously. 342 children needed nine teachers. Classes stretched from kindergarten to a combined Year 5 and 6. Think of the energy in those classrooms. The sheer number of children.
In 1957 a four-roomed wooden building was erected. It became the main primary block. More homes were built around the school. Gordon West Public School expanded quickly to meet the growing need. A second building was added in 1959 becoming the main primary block. The 1957 building housed the infant classes. The addition of a kindergarten block in the same year eased the pressure in overcrowded classrooms.
The average class size was 45. Two third-grade classes even exceeded 50 students. Can you picture that? West Pymble School opened in 1960. Over one hundred students transferred there. Gordon West Public School remained a central part of the community. The closing of Gordon Public School in 1990 brought even more students. The student population increased significantly.
Gordon West Public School’s house names reflect a unique decision. Instead of typical Australian names they chose Aboriginal names. Gareaway Marayong Mulgo and Waugan represent the local Ku-ring-gai area. The school mural is special. Made of ceramic mosaic it was designed by artist Byram Mansell. The garden and Australian shrubs complement the art.
Gordon West Public School wasn’t just built on land. It was built on a history. Mr George Munday and his wife Agnes worked an orchard on the land. Their story connects this school to its past. The original settlers’ home stood where the school now stands. It was a testament to the area’s history.
Today Gordon West Public School thrives. It’s a testament to the community’s growth. It’s a vibrant school nestled in a beautiful bush setting on Sydney’s Upper North Shore. From forty students to hundreds. Gordon West Public School tells a powerful story of growth and community. A story you can feel right here.