MEDIA RELEASE
JULY 2025
Current and future students at St Patrick’s Catholic Primary School, Asquith will benefit from a transformative multi-million dollar investment supporting teaching and learning in a new dynamic environment.
The milestone upgrade has transformed disconnected and outdated facilities into inspiring learning environments.
The $8 million project is another significant sign of Catholic Schools Broken Bay’s unwavering commitment to delivering quality Catholic education in contemporary, faith-filled environments.
The newly refurbished learning, administrative spaces and play area was recently blessed and opened by Most Rev Anthony Randazzo, Bishop of Broken Bay.
“These new learning spaces are more than just bricks and mortar—they are an investment in the potential, and formation of every child entrusted to our care,” Bishop Randazzo said.
“I commend the school community for their vision and dedication in bringing this significant project to life.”
The milestone upgrade was made possible through joint funding from the NSW Government’s Capital Grants Block Allocation (CGBA) program—contributing nearly $1 million—and Catholic Schools Broken Bay. The result is a modern, accessible, and responsive environment designed to support 21st-century teaching and learning.
The official celebration brought together students, staff, parishioners, and dignitaries, including Director of Schools Mr Danny Casey, Principal Mr Todd Vane-Tempest, Federal Member for Berowra Mr Julian Leeser, State Member for Hornsby Mr James Wallace, State Member for Davidson and former St Patrick’s student Mr Matt Cross, and Hornsby Shire Deputy Mayor Cr Janelle McIntosh.
Originally established by the Sisters of Mercy in 1958, St Patrick’s has long upheld a proud legacy of academic excellence and inclusive Catholic identity.
“These new spaces support best-practice teaching and learning,” said Mr Danny Casey, Director of Schools. “They allow for collaboration, creativity, and curiosity—and they reflect the vision of our Towards 2025 strategy, where every child is engaged, empowered and thriving.”
Principal Mr Todd Vane-Tempest said the refurbished spaces had already had a noticeable impact, with prospective families commenting positively during recent Open Days.
“We’re incredibly grateful for the support we’ve received throughout this journey—from our partners, government, parish and Diocese to our staff, students and families who remained so patient and optimistic,” Mr Vane-Tempest said. “These are more than new buildings—they are a physical expression of our values, our learning culture, and our belief in every child’s potential.”
Key features of the redevelopment include:
•Contemporary, collaborative classroom upgrades
•Conversion of the library into a flexible, multi-use learning hub
•Transforming a dirt play area into an inviting grassed playground
•A new lift to significantly improve site accessibility
•A redesigned administration area, creating a welcoming and efficient front-of-house
•Relocation and upgrade of staff amenities to support workflow and wellbeing
The school also recognised the outstanding contributions of its project partners. Special thanks were extended to SARM Architects for their innovative design, Mettle Building Projects for their quality craftsmanship, and project managers Darwin and David from Mostyn Copper, who coordinated closely with school leadership, CSBB Facilities, parish and government stakeholders to deliver a high-quality result.
With this major project now complete, St Patrick’s Catholic Primary School stands ready to welcome future generations of learners in a space that nurtures curiosity, connection, and Catholic identity.
ENDS
For information regarding this release contact:
Katrina Lee 0403 950 652
Email: Katrina.Lee@bbcatholic.org.au
