St Kieran’s

In 1952, the foundation stone of St Kieran’s Church/School was laid. This marked the beginning of a rich history for St Kieran’s in Manly Vale. St Kieran’s is more than just a school. It’s a vibrant part of the North Harbour Parish community. The motto, “To learn and to love,” reflects its dedication to both education and community. St Kieran’s story begins with Monsignor McDonald, the priest of Manly. He named the church after his old school, St Kieran’s College in Kilkenny, Ireland. The Augustinian priests, who took responsibility for the parish in 1952, have played a significant role in the school’s development. They’ve guided and supported St Kieran’s, contributing to its everyday life and strategic direction. In 1953, St Kieran’s Parish School opened its doors to 30 children. The Sisters of the Good Samaritan led the school until 1974 and continued to be part of the staff until 1977. The school has seen significant growth. By 1959, enrollment had increased nearly tenfold to 276 students. Today, St Kieran’s is a modern two-stream primary co-educational school. It embraces technology and boasts state-of-the-art facilities. St Kieran’s celebrated its 60th anniversary in 2013. The celebrations included a gala dinner, a family fun day, and a commemorative Mass attended by over 300 people. A display of memorabilia showcased the school’s rich history over the past six decades. The school’s patron saint, St Kieran, adds another layer to the story. Known as Ciaran, the son of the carpenter, he founded the Clonmacnoise monastery and is associated with several colorful legends. He died in 540 AD from the yellow plague. St Kieran’s continues to thrive, upholding its motto “to learn and to love” for over 70 years. Its close ties to the North Harbour Parish make it more than a school, but a vital part of a vibrant community.