Rupanyup Primary School reaches 150 years

Rupanyup Primary School proudly marked its 150th anniversary, celebrating a remarkable legacy of education, resilience and community connection on July 4.

Rupanyup Primary School principals Gavin Young, Jane McLean, Prue McAllister, Anne Matheson, Ian Kilpatrick, Rachael Bath (current) and Allen Attwood.

Principal Rachael Bath welcomed a large crowd of past and present students, staff, families and community members to the school grounds for a day of reflection and celebration.

The event included the burial of a time-capsule that was filled with student work and snapshots of school life today, set to be opened in 2050.

Ms Bath also shared stories from the school’s past, including the challenges faced during wartime and drought, and recognised the strength and spirit that have sustained the school through generations.

Guests enjoyed a self-guided scavenger hunt, historical displays and morning tea prepared by the Parents Club.

A special thank you went to Hope Duffus and Mackenzie Goodin for the beautifully made school birthday cake.

Acknowledgements were made to several former principals — including Mr Allen Attwood, who led the school during its centenary and published a book on its history, as well as Mr Ian Kirkpatrick, Mr McAllister, Mrs Ann Matheson, Mr Gavin Young and Mrs Jane McLean.

Special recognition was also paid to Mrs Sue Tyler, who contributed significantly to the school’s culture and success, and we even had the return of Spotty.

With students from every decade since the 1930s represented, the day was a joyful reunion and a celebration of the enduring role of Rupanyup Primary School in the heart of the community.

The whole school would like to sincerely thank everyone who helped prepare for the day and has supported the school in preparation for this celebration.

-RACHAEL BATH, RUPANYUP PRIMARY SCHOOL PRINCIPAL