St Clare’s celebrates 30 years of learning, faith and community

St Clare’s Catholic High School Hassall Grove has celebrated a significant milestone, marking its 30th anniversary with a moving Mass and ceremony.

Distinguished guests, including Most Reverend Bishop Vincent Long, Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese Executive Director Jack de Groot, and NSW Member for Mount Druitt Edmond Atalla, joined clergy, staff, and students in honouring the school’s legacy.

Founded in 1993 as a collaboration between the Capuchin Fathers based at Plumpton, and the Catholic Education Office, the school began with just 100 students from Year 7 to 10. The first Year 11 students were enrolled at the school in 2019, graduating as the inaugural Year 12 class in 2020.

“Established in response to the need of a growing Catholic community, we are all proud of the thriving school St Clare's has become today,” said Bishop Vincent. “A school with a strong focus on developing confident, motivated leaders who are well-equipped with the knowledge, skillset and resilience for the 21st century.”

“We take immense pride in our community here at St Clare’s,” said Principal Kevin Jones. “Our diverse, multi-faith environment is a testament to our inclusive approach. The fact that we can hold a Eucharistic celebration where all students feel welcomed speaks volumes about the values we uphold.”

Theresa Nielsen, Assistant Principal, echoed these sentiments: “We are truly blessed with a beautiful community. As Bishop Vincent mentioned, being a catalyst of love was evident in today’s ceremony.”

The Mass took place in the school’s “Town Square,” a space designed with a Franciscan theme inspired by the village of Assisi, Italy, home of the school’s namesake, St Clare. The school also honours its deep Aboriginal connections, recognising the site’s significance in local Aboriginal history.

"As you journey through your time at St Clare’s, I encourage you to seize every opportunity, using each experience as a stepping stone to unlock your capabilities and talents,” said CSPD Executive Direct Jack de Groot. “Draw inspiration from your school’s patron, St Clare of Assisi, and face the future with confidence, knowing that your education will empower you to achieve your dreams and make a meaningful impact on the world."

Attendees were deeply moved by speeches from the school’s longest-serving teacher, Desiré Barlow, and school captains, Imogen Sheslow and Steve Maulio.

“In my six years here, I can confidently say that our school is a safe, happy, and inclusive place,” said Imogen. “We are a community that challenges each other to flourish, living out the gospel message by seeing the image of God in every person and respecting each individual’s inherent dignity.”

Steve added, “St Clare’s example of simplicity, prayer, faith, courage, and service guides us in living our calling to praise God through our lives.”

The school choir, accompanied by key members of the school band, including violinist Penelope Taateo, infused the service with an added touch of grace.

Principal Kevin Jones paid tribute to the past students and staff who have shaped the school’s proud history. “We stand on the shoulders of those who came before us - former teachers, students, staff, and their families,” he said. “It’s been a journey, and we’re incredibly proud of where we are today and the bright future ahead for our school.”

Today, St Clare’s is a thriving co-educational secondary school with almost 600 students from Years 7 to 12, dedicated to nurturing confident, motivated leaders equipped to succeed in the modern world.