St Agnes School Celebrate 125th Anniversary

The Mass to celebrate the 125th anniversary of the school on 13th September 2017 was truly memorable. So much thought and preparation had gone into it over many months. The occasion was not dampened by the due to the funeral of Cardinal Cormac
Present at the celebration were pupils, parents, staff, governors and some invited guests, including the Mayor of Barnet, Councillor Brian Salinger. Reflecting on 125 years of history and tradition featured strongly in the celebration. The historical records are somewhat sparse. What is known is that the school originated in Childs Hill in 1892, then moved to Gillingham Road on the site of the parish church of St Agnes in 1939. There were pressures to expand all the time because of the growing numbers wanting access to the school. Eventually after much effort the new school site on Thorverton Road reached fruition in 1992.
The school continues to grow and in September 2016 the premises were once again enlarged, with the addition of two new classrooms, offering two forms of entry, serving the needs of the parish community and beyond.
The Headteacher, Susan O’Reilly, lauded the work of staff and parents. The Governors received special praise for their commitment to the school with particular mention being given to Councillor Jack Cohen, a Governor for over 30 years and to Gill Abbott, Present Chairperson, a Governor for 16 years. With the prospective expansion it looks as if Catholic Education will be alive and well for the people of the parish and beyond for years to come. The anniversary celebration placed great emphasis on achievement, but it also looked towards the future, seeing the children as symbols of hope who through their education will become enabled as leaders and contributors to society.
The school is proud of its achievements living out its own mantra ‘the Family of St Agnes loves, learns and grows together as followers of Jesus’. St Agnes epitomises that reality of success in what it sets out to do. The anniversary highlighted its tradition, history and spirit. The whole school community prayed that its life will grow and flourish in the years ahead. With God’s blessing and help all things are possible.