Nestled in Howick, Auckland, Our Lady Star of the Sea School stands as a beacon. It represents faith, community, and a commitment to excellence. Our Lady Star of the Sea School’s story began long ago.
In 1847, local Catholic families wanted their children educated. Father Garin helped. In 1848, he organized a small building. It served as both a classroom and a chapel. Lay teachers ran the school until 1852.
Fast forward to 1904. The Mission Sisters arrived. They traveled from Ashburton and Christchurch. They journeyed by pony and trap to teach the local students. Imagine their dedication. They arrived on a Friday and started teaching on Monday. Between 1904 and 1924 over 20 Mission Sisters taught at the school. New Zealand’s first aviatrix Jean Batten attended Our Lady Star of the Sea School for a short time.
Bishop Cleary invited the Sisters of Mercy in 1925. They opened a Diocesan Orphanage on Granger Road. For over 30 years, the Sisters ran the Star of the Sea orphanage. One morning in 1929, a fire broke out. Four sisters woke to crackling flames. They quickly evacuated 50 girls to safety. The building was lost. But the Sisters were unshaken. They prepared to rebuild. In 1931, the new buildings were completed. They offered a picturesque view overlooking the sea.
The orphanage had a 20-acre farm. It provided milk, cream, vegetables, and eggs. The farm sold in 1959. In 1961 extra classrooms were built. The orphanage closed in 1977. The Mercy Sisters remained at the school until 1980. Lay teachers then staffed Our Lady Star of the Sea School.
Our Lady Star of the Sea School became an integrated school. New classrooms, a library, and a resource room were added. The school moved to its current site on Oakridge Way in Northpark. The old school at Granger Road closed in September 1996. It had served generations of orphans and students for over 70 years.
Today, Our Lady Star of the Sea School thrives. It caters to around 550 children. The school nurtures faith and builds community. It strives for excellence. It promotes service and justice. These values are promoted at Our Lady Star of the Sea School. The school is part of the South East Christian Kāhui Ako.
Our Lady Star of the Sea School continues to evolve. It aims to provide a respectful and learner-centered environment. It focuses on the wellbeing of all learners. The school wants every learner to feel a strong sense of belonging. It empowers every learner to connect with their culture and identity.
Remember Our Lady Star of the Sea School’s journey. From its humble beginnings to its present-day success. It stands as a testament to the power of faith, community, and education. It is truly a star in the community.