On Monday 3 March, the School community – students, staff, alumni and distinguished guests gathered in Sydney Town Hall to mark our 140 year anniversary.
This special commencement assembly boasted a programme rich in tradition, reflection and artistic expression, where the generations who have shaped our story were honoured.
Following a First Nations procession with our Gawura School students, led by Aunty Rayma Johnson, Uncle Allen Madden of the Metropolitan Local Aboriginal Land Council formally opened the event with a Welcome to Country. This was accompanied by a stirring didgeridoo performance by Mr Ivor Rigney-Sebastian (OA2011).
Dramatic vignettes from our talented Drama students brought defining moments from our history to life – the birth of the School, resilience through the war years, the launch of coeducation and additions of Kirrikee and Gawura School. Both a commissioned choral piece, I Will Not Be Shaken by Dr Huw Belling (OA2003) and a Year 12 English poem reflected on the School’s journey from past to present.
Guests were privileged to hear from Her Excellency the Honourable Margaret Beazley AC KC, Governor of NSW, and The Honourable Prudence Ann Car, MP, Deputy Premier and Minister for Education and Early Learning.
Dr Julie McGonigle, Head of School, addressed the audience, crediting the School’s current successes to those who have gone before, saying we were ‘standing on the shoulders of giants’.
Following this, a rousing performance of One Day More from Les Misérables by Old Andreans, including professional opera singers, echoed through the hall, reminding the audience of the enduring bonds of our community.
“Musical excellence has always been synonymous with St Andrew’s Cathedral School. This performance brought together Old Andreans spanning five decades, from the 1980s to 2024. It’s a testament to the enduring spirit of our community,” said Mr Richard Hansen (OA2003), Alumni Relations Manager.
In a moment of deep gratitude, our longest serving teacher, Mr Jim Boddy was honoured with the inaugural Legacy of Light award for his exceptional service to our School for over 40 years. He has served under four different Heads of School and has inspired generations of students and families. Known for his kindness, thoughtfulness and unwavering care, Mr Boddy encapsulates what it means to create a legacy.
The final moments of the assembly were marked by the ringing of the Kingsford Smith memorial bell. The bell was rung 140 times and the audience joined in the fun by counting along.
“This assembly was crafted to reflect who we are, honouring the Legacy of Light passed down through generations. Through music, drama and storytelling, it shared our journey from our humble beginnings, through the challenges and triumphs to the dynamic school we are today. It was a rare opportunity to share our story – a story that belongs to all of us and continues to illuminate the path for future generations,” said Ms Lyn Jarvis, Director of Community Engagement.
The afternoon had it all: music, drama, speeches, audience participation and song. Funny videos, humorous history skits and turning a simple children’s song into a whole-school performance encapsulated the warmth, whimsy and creativity alive in our diverse community.
The breadth of the programme meant a moving celebration for all who attended. It served as a powerful reminder of the School’s legacy of learning, while pointing to the Light that has guided us for 140 years.
Here’s to the next 140!
