Huntingdale Primary School welcomed Premier Mark McGowan to celebrate the school’s 40th anniversary.
During school assembly on October 27 Mr McGowan unveiled the original school plaque, which had been re-brassed.
As part of the visit he was also invited to view the progress of the school’s new nature playground, which the State Government had invested $40,000 in.
The WA Police Pipe Band also performed at the celebrations entertaining current and former students from across the years who were invited to dress in 1970s fashion as a nod to the school’s beginnings.
Principal Edd Black said in 1976 the Evangelist Brothers Building Company won a tender and set about building a school with care and skill.
He said the school went on to become Huntingdale Primary.
“I can actually remember Huntingdale Primary opening as I was teaching year threes just down the road at Wirra Birra Primary,” he said.
“Over the years the asbestos roof was replaced, the chicken wire removed, kindy classrooms built and a new library added.”
Mr Black said although buildings and facilities were important it was the people who made the school special.
“The families, the staff members and the generations of children who have attended our school make our school a part of the local community,” he said.
“It is a place that cares.”
Mr McGowan said he was WA’s Education Minister back in 2007 and one of his first duties was celebrating the 30th anniversary of the school.
“It is a pleasure to attend the 40 year celebrations,” he said.
“While it has been quite a few years since I last visited Huntingdale Primary School it was a fantastic opportunity to return and see its progress.”
Mr McGowan said it was vital schools were well equipped and resourced to support students in and around the classroom.
Member for Southern River Terry Healy also attended the celebrations.
He said as a former teacher he was pleased to have a government who listened to the needs of the school community.
Mr Healy congratulated the school on its milestone.
