Did the name “Westmere” ever spark your curiosity? Right here, before us, stands Westmere School. It’s a place brimming with history, nestled in the heart of a suburb once known for its vibrant mix of industry and residential charm. Westmere School first opened its doors in July 1914 as Richmond West School. It was built to ease the burden on neighboring schools. The original brick structure housed just three classrooms, a headmaster’s office, and a staff room. Imagine young students traversing a wide, curved pathway from Larchwood Avenue to their lessons.
Westmere School has grown and evolved significantly over the years. The school expanded in the 1920s with additional rooms. Two classrooms were built near the Larchwood entrance specifically for infant students. In 1930, the name officially changed to Westmere School to avoid any confusion with Richmond Road School. A dental clinic was added, serving the community’s health needs. The school, reflecting the changing times, underwent a major transformation in 1978. The older buildings, except for the hall, were demolished. New structures arose along Garnet Road and Larchwood Avenue, even spanning the former school gully. Westmere School continued to modernize. The old hall was eventually replaced with a new one, opening in 2012. Just a few years later, in 2015, the school unveiled its current layout with seven brand-new and eleven renovated classrooms. From its humble beginnings with three classrooms, Westmere School now boasts a modern learning environment, ready to nurture future generations.
In the early 2000s, Westmere School experienced a period of remarkable growth. Between 2003 and 2013, the student population surged by an impressive 52%, reaching 639 students. Today, Westmere School, also known as Te Rehu, is a co-educational primary school serving years 1 through 6. It has a current roll of 403 students. Did you know that Westmere School offers both English and Māori medium education? Students can learn in an English medium setting, or they can choose the Ngā Uri O Ngā Iwi Māori medium bilingual and full immersion unit. This commitment to bilingual education makes Westmere School a truly unique and culturally rich institution. It celebrates its connection to the Māori heritage and offers an inclusive environment for all its students. The school’s rich history, from its early days as Richmond West School to its modern incarnation as Te Rehu, stands as a testament to its enduring commitment to education.