Frederick Irwin Anglican School

From students to teachers: Above - Ms Kara McShane, Ms Molly Cave, Ms Sophie Jones, Mrs Catherine Rayner, Meadow Springs Primary Campus. Right - Mrs Bianca Baker and Mrs Sky Kettle, Halls Head Primary Campus

30 YEARS OF FREDERICK IRWIN

Frederick Irwin Anglican School celebrates its 30th Anniversary this year, with many activities taking place to acknowledge this significant milestone.

Principal Kerry Robertson highlighted the importance of the anniversary.

“Frederick Irwin continues to grow, and the strength of the School community is clear as it celebrates 30 years in the Peel region,” she said.

Although COVID-19 has postponed some events such as their 30 Year Fete, Frederick Irwin is still going ahead with a range of activities, including the 30-Year Videos, which showcases former students and staff members and their memories of the School. The stories can be found on the website and provide a wonderful journey back in time.

The School also recently finalised a 30 Year drone video/photograph using the Years 7-12 students. There are also virtual and physical time capsules being finalised, including video messages from current Prefects and plans for the physical capsule to be dug up when the School turns 50.

Ms Robertson said one aspect of Frederick Irwin’s history of which the School was particularly proud, is that former students return to teach at the school, often bringing their own children to begin their journey as students. Currently, the school has 23 teaching and administration staff who are former students, including some from the original group in 1991.

One unique family, the Carmody’s, made up of Israel, Nathaniel and Holly, are all siblings and former students working at the School. This year 2020 graduate Noah, and son of Israel, joined the team as the School’s Sports Trainee.

When speaking with various staff members, they return because the school continues to support the concept of a community and family, and they want to continue this experience for students that they once had.

Year 5 teacher Jessica Walmsley returned to the School to teach after graduating in 2012.

“I wanted to return as a teacher because of the strong sense of community and belonging,” she said.

This feeling is replicated by many of the staff who are at the School.

“When you walk around the School, there is a strong sense of connectedness, of community and it is something that we have worked hard to develop over the years,” Ms Robertson said.

“Frederick Irwin will continue to celebrate this milestone during 2021 and looks forward to another wonderful 30 years.”