In 1922 Ashburton was a rural idyll. Orchards market gardens and dairy farms dotted the landscape. Thirty-four houses stood amongst them. Two small grocery shops and a blacksmith’s shop served the community. Ashburton Primary School wasn’t there yet. Children walked to Glen Iris Primary School a long slog through mud and dust.
But Ashburton was changing. Subdivisions were planned. A school was needed. Local parents became vocal advocates. By 1924 thirty-three families wanted a school in Ashburton. Land was purchased. The corner of Carool and Fakenham Roads became the site of a dream. It took four years but finally in May 1928 Ashburton Primary School opened its doors. One hundred and sixteen students enrolled.
The early years saw rapid growth. Within four years enrollment doubled. Diphtheria and polio outbreaks forced closures. Lessons continued via mail and wireless broadcasts. The curriculum was comprehensive. Students learned mental arithmetic spelling dictation Latin and Greek. A boys’ drum band and a gardening club thrived. A rose-covered pergola led to the school’s entrance. A bell tower housed a donated bell. This bell later found a home in the Ashburton Church of England. It was replaced by a siren.
World War II brought significant changes. Post-war growth put immense pressure on the school. Overcrowding was a constant challenge. New classrooms were built. Army huts were converted. Students were bussed to other schools. Enrollment peaked at 821 students. The opening of Alamein State School offered some relief. Yet Ashburton Primary School continually struggled to keep up with the demand.
Renovations were undertaken. Drainage problems plagued the school. The quadrangle was sealed. Drinking fountains were installed. Ceilings were replaced. The exterior was repainted. An adventure playground was added. Module buildings housed an art room and a library. Portable classrooms were added. Overhead projectors signaled the arrival of technology. A new hall and canteen were built.
The 1990s saw further reforms and renovations. Jeff Kennett’s education reforms allowed parents to choose schools. This led to increased enrollment at Ashburton Primary School. Alamein State School closed. Its students joined Ashburton Primary. Grants funded new classrooms and renovations. Calculators and computers arrived.
Ashburton Primary School also had a strong emphasis on sports. Teams participated in basketball softball football and rounders. A school oval was finally acquired. Interschool sports and swimming carnivals were regular events. The school’s success is reflected in the many athletic victories.
The Mothers’ Club played a vital role. Established in 1928 this group raised money through various events. They supported the school in countless ways. The group’s legacy of fundraising and community support is unparalleled.
Today Ashburton Primary School continues its important work. It’s a testament to the dedication of its students staff and community. The school’s history is a rich tapestry of growth challenges and achievements. It stands as a symbol of resilience and progress in the heart of Ashburton.