and is the culmination of a few years of very hard work and planning on the part school community.

“We as a school community can be really proud of what we have achieved, and I believe we have set this school up for success for years to come.”

Mr Kelly went on to thank school staff adding:

“The renovations were a very busy time for our school, and in some cases, teachers had to move out of one classroom and into another almost overnight. Despite the chaos of walls literally being torn down around us our teachers still maintained their high classroom standards and a testament to this was acknowledgement we received from the ACARA in 2021 acknowledging NAPLAN growth in our school between 2019 and 2021, the exact time this project.”

Mr Kelly, along with the school, also expressed gratitude to key contributors, presenting tokens of appreciation to Architect Sally Mathews, builder Pat Corrigan, and retiring former principal Mr Eugene Lee.

The reopening ceremony was a joyous celebration, blending tradition and progress, and symbolising St Mary’s ongoing dedication to providing a quality Catholic education in Boyup Brook. A highlight of the ceremony was the students’ spirited rendition of the school song, emphasizing unity and pride. The day concluded with refreshments and school tours, providing an opportunity for informal interactions.

Speaking at the opening, Dr Debra Sayce said:

“When we reflect on the story of St Mary’s, it began when Bishop Goody identified a need for a school to serve the community of Boyup Brook. At that time, the school comprised two classrooms, a small music room and a toilet block.

“Today, we mark the opening of new classrooms for every year group, providing improved technology, a more functional layout and added flexible learning spaces. That, too, is a response to the needs of our time – to ensure that St Mary’s provides the best possible learning environment to support the diverse needs and interests of students.”

St Mary’s has served the community of Boyup Brook since the 1950s, when it was first established by the Presentation Sisters.