The History of St. Joseph’s Catholic School in Boorowa

A Legacy of Faith and Education

For over 125 years, St. Joseph’s Catholic School has been a pillar of education and faith in Boorowa. Established in 1858, the school has played a crucial role in shaping the academic and spiritual development of generations of students. Rooted in the traditions of Catholic education, St. Joseph’s remains a testament to the dedication of the local community and the strong influence of the Irish Catholic settlers who helped shape the town’s identity.

Early Beginnings

The origins of Catholic education in Boorowa date back to the mid-19th century when the Catholic Church recognized the need for structured learning that combined religious instruction with general education. According to Helen V. Lloyd’s Boorowa: Over 160 Years of White Settlement, the first Catholic school in Boorowa was formally established in 1859, with Thomas Hennessey Corcoran and his wife Mary appointed as the first school leaders. The Corcorans not only taught the local children but also accommodated six boarders in the schoolhouse, conducting lessons in the nearby chapel.

The school had its first official examinations in December 1859, where students were assessed on their learning, and prizes were awarded to those with the best responses. These early efforts laid the foundation for Boorowa’s strong commitment to Catholic education.

By 1882, Catholic parents in Boorowa had requested that their children be taught under the supervision of an organized religious order, leading to the arrival of six Sisters of Mercy on 29 August 1882. They initially resided in the Presbytery, made available by Father Tom Long, until a dedicated convent was built. The nuns officially took over the school in September 1882, holding classes in the newly completed St. Patrick’s Church. By October 1882, student enrolments had reached 112 children.

Growth and Development

To support the expansion of Catholic education in Boorowa, J.N. Ryan donated 40 acres of land in 1882, on which a convent was later constructed. The convent, erected by Bell and Briggs, was officially opened and blessed under the name St. Joseph’s on 10 May 1885. Further support came from Dr. Donovan, a strong advocate for Catholic education, who donated an additional 10 acres of land and funded the construction of St. Joseph’s School, which officially opened on 8 July 1888.

The school continued to expand over the years to accommodate growing enrolments. The foundation stone for St. Brigid’s, an additional primary school building, was laid on 27 May 1917 and was completed by 16 June 1918. These developments reflected the increasing importance of Catholic education in Boorowa and the support it received from both the Church and the local community.

St. Joseph’s Today

The school continued to thrive throughout the 20th century. However, as the number of women joining the Sisters of Mercy declined, the administration of the school gradually transitioned to lay leadership. In 1979, Mark Cousins became the first lay principal of St. Joseph’s, marking a significant shift in the school's governance. By 1987, the remaining Sisters of Mercy had left Boorowa, and the school was fully staffed by lay teachers.

Today, St. Joseph’s Catholic School remains a vital part of Boorowa’s religious and educational landscape. As part of the Canberra-Goulburn Archdiocese, it continues to provide a faith-based education while integrating modern teaching methods and technologies. The school fosters a strong sense of community, where students, teachers, and families work together to create a supportive and enriching learning environment.

A Lasting Impact

The history of St. Joseph’s Catholic School is a reflection of Boorowa’s deep-rooted Catholic heritage and the unwavering dedication of its educators and families. As a cornerstone of the community, the school continues to build on its proud traditions, ensuring that its legacy endures for many years to come.

St. Joseph’s stands as more than just a school—it is a living testament to the values, faith, and educational aspirations that have guided Boorowa for over a century. As the town moves forward, the lessons learned within its walls will continue to shape the future of its students and the wider community.

Tuesday Town Trivia Question:

Who was the first principal of St. Joseph’s Catholic School in Boorowa? Answer: Thomas Hennessey Corcoran (appointed 1859).