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St Joseph's School

by St Joseph's School

Principal's Welcome

Aaron Richards - February 1, 2021

St Joseph's School is a state-integrated school for girls and boys up to Year 8 offering an education with a special Catholic Character. We aim to enrich children’s lives by nurturing personal dignity, respect for others, a sense of community, and the living of Gospel Values within the teachings of the Catholic Church. The Gospel Values of Love, Wisdom, Faith and Courage underpin the day-to-day activities.

The special Catholic Character of our school is founded on our patron St Joseph and the Gospel Values which follows the educational philosophy of Catherine McAuley as gifted to us by the Sisters of Mercy.

St Joseph's School is situated in Papanui, North West Christchurch. The school opened in 1878 and is now the largest Catholic primary school in the diocese. We currently have a maximum roll of 440 students.

We are an extremely well-resourced school. Our school buildings and grounds are wonderful assets. However, without a doubt, our greatest asset is "our people." There is a real sense of community, ownership, commitment and pride in our school from parents, children and staff alike. This is an integral part of the culture of our school and something to be highly valued.

— Principal, Aaron Richards
principal@stjopapa.school.nz