New name for northern suburbs school

WITH the new year brings a new school name for St Francis of Assisi Catholic Primary School.

Located in Butler, the local Catholic school was previously known as Brighton Catholic Primary, however in the 18 months preceding the name change, parent, staff and student populations were canvassed in order to choose a patron saint which was synonymous with the school values.

After community consultation, St Francis of Assisi was chosen and approved by the Archbishop and Catholic Education Western Australia.

“In 2020, we are excited to welcome our students back to a new school name,” principal Jason Baker said.

“A lot of work was undertaken by staff and parents in realising this vision, and we are now proudly associated with St Francis.

“Through our connection to St Francis, the patron saint of animals and the environment, our focus on pastoral care and wellbeing is only enhanced.

“Maintaining excellence in teaching and learning remains a priority of our dedicated staff.”

The school has been the local Catholic primary school in the area for the past 15 years and established itself as a progressive and innovative school through its approach to integrating technology into the classroom.

Welcoming a diverse community, the multicultural nature of the area is reflected at the school.

With more than 450 students, the school caters for children from a variety of backgrounds and abilities and prides itself on the range of opportunities presented.

“I believe our school strongly reflects our community: diverse, supportive and committed to bringing the best out in each other,” Mr Baker said.

“While we may be known for our technology innovations, the school provides experiences in performing arts, robotics and a range of extra-curricular sports activities that make the most of our state-of-the-art facilities.”

The school’s recent building program included the development of an airconditioned indoor gymnasium, implementation of three dedicated naturescape playgrounds and resurfacing of the outdoor courts.

This culminated with the completion of an extension to the administration building, welcoming all current and prospective families.

The vision of recently retired principal James Danaher has now been realised with the renaming of the school to St Francis of Assisi, the final piece in the transformation of the school.

A close partnership with the St Andrew’s Parish and neighbouring Catholic high school Irene McCormack Catholic College ensures children enrolling at St Francis of Assisi can continue their Catholic education journey to graduation seamlessly.

“As the furthest Catholic primary school north of the river, we want to be the number one choice for parents wishing for a diverse, Catholic education,” Mr Baker said.

Visit www.stfrancisbutler.wa.edu.au.