Let your light shine. That is the motto of St Patrick’s College. It reflects the values instilled here since 1928.
St Patrick’s College stands as a testament to Catholic education. It is an independent primary and secondary day school for boys. The Congregation of Christian Brothers founded it. The school operates in the tradition of Edmund Rice. Edmund Rice Education Australia now administers it.
Imagine this place in 1928. It began as St Patrick’s Practice School. It was a training ground for teachers at the Australian Catholic University. Dr M. Kelly, the Archbishop of Sydney, officially opened it. Thirty-nine students were enrolled. Brothers L. S. Carroll, P. K. Kent and J. R. Crichton taught them. M. B. Hanrahan was the acting principal.
The school had six classrooms. It also included rooms for physics, chemistry, art and woodwork. By the end of the first year, over 100 students were enrolled.
The College crest is designed thoughtfully. The shield symbolizes strength. The motto urges all to “Let Your Light Shine”. The star signifies knowledge and faith.
The house system plays a role in student life. It dates back to the 1930s. Originally, there were four houses Red, Gold, Green and Blue. By the 1970s, the college expanded to six houses. Each house was named after a significant figure in the college’s history.
Berg House pays tribute to Brian Berg. He was the first Old Boy Brother to teach at St Patrick’s. Coghlan House honors J. V. Coghlan. He served as Principal for two terms. Crichton House is named after John Rewi Crichton. He was a teacher at St Patrick’s College. Hanrahan House recognizes Michael Benignus Hanrahan. He was the first Principal. Hickey House honors Patrick Ignatius Hickey. Rice House pays tribute to founder Edmund Rice.
The College offers many extracurricular activities. All boys participate in sports or other activities. Options include rugby union, football and cricket. There is also basketball and tennis. Boys can participate in swimming, debating and drama. They can join the band or choir.
The St Patrick’s College Old Boys’ Association helps alumni stay connected. The St Patrick’s Rugby Club has a rich history. It was established in 1964. The club has won championships and premierships.
St Patrick’s College provides various facilities. These include classrooms with audio-visual equipment. There are science rooms and computer labs. The College has design and technology spaces. There are visual arts and music facilities. Two libraries serve the junior and secondary schools. Sports facilities include playing fields and a gymnasium. There is a swimming pool and tennis courts.
The College anthem was composed in 1958. Br Robert Charles Hill wrote the words. Br Colin Declan Smith composed the music. A choir of over 600 voices first performed it at Speech Night.
So as you stand here, remember the light. The light of knowledge, faith and community. St Patrick’s College continues to shine brightly. It shapes young men. They go on to make a difference in the world.