From vision to reality - St Francis of Assisi Primary opens stunning new facilities

The new facilities were blessed by Most Rev Vincent Long OFM Conv

The school community of St Francis of Assisi Primary Glendenning has marked the beginning of an exciting new chapter in the story of their school, with the official Opening and Blessing of its upgraded facilities.

Principal Jenny Bellenger expressed her enthusiasm at the opening, noting that the completion of the project fulfilled a long held aspiration.

“When I arrived at St Francis of Assisi, I had a dream: to create an exceptional school where every student could thrive and learn in the finest environment. Today, that dream has become a reality. Every child at St Francis deserves to learn in the finest school, and it is our collective effort that made this possible,” Jenny said.

St Francis of Assisi Primary students were excited to be part of the celebration

The extensive renovation was supported in part by the Federal Government’s Capital Grants Program and includes a range of impressive upgrades. The project has introduced new flexible learning spaces and Inquiry Hubs for K-6 students, a revamped Professional Hub for office and administrative functions, and a redesigned Knowledge Centre that features updated library facilities, teacher meeting rooms, and space for school counsellors.

Significant enhancements were also made to the school’s outdoor areas. Students can now enjoy a new playground with a dedicated Kindy play area, sports fields and courts, an outdoor chess set, a vegetable garden, and a fitness park. Additionally, the school has added new undercover learning areas, improved streetscapes, a prayer garden, and a yarning circle. These improvements are designed to enrich the school experience, fostering a stronger sense of community and engagement.

Bishop of Parramatta meets with students at St Francis of Assisi Primary

Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese Executive Director, Jack De Groot called on the community to embody the spirit of the school’s patron saint, St Francis of Assisi, citing his inspirational words: “Start by doing what's necessary; then do what's possible; and suddenly you are doing the impossible.”

“We are here today to celebrate these absolutely wonderful new facilities that started out because they were necessary but have evolved into learning spaces that I’m sure some of your parents, grandparents and their parents would have once deemed impossible,” Jack said.

Bishop Vincent Long, OFM Conv blessed the new spaces and distinguished guests at the event included the Hon Ed Husic, Member for Chifley; the Very Reverend Robert Riedling EV, Episcopal Vicar for Education; and Fr Gerard O’Dempsey and Fr John Nguyen from the local Good Shepherd Parish.

Executive Director Jack De Groot, Principal Jenny Bellenger and Bishop Vincent Long OFM Conv unveil the school’s commemorative plaque