Star Weekly is looking back at the best stories of last year and this is one of them.
This year, Williamstown Primary School staff, students and alumni are celebrating the school’s 150th year anniversary.
Principal Matthew Montebello said he is proud to have been with the school for 23 years, watching it change and grow.
“I started here in 2001, so I have been here for a long time, prior to becoming the principal last year, I was the assistant principal,” he said.
In 23 years, Mr Montebello said the education system itself has changed, but the Williamstown culture has stayed true.
“I think Williamstown itself is unique when it comes to the western suburbs.
“It’s very much like a country town but it is just across from the city, we have Bluestone buildings which are 145 years old and Red Brick buildings that are 120 years old, our physical landscape has a lot of history in it.
“What hasn’t changed is the community, families seem to just grab on to the school culture which I think is very special.”
The implementation of the Willie Kids programme in 1994 is something Mr Montebello thinks has had a lasting impact on the school.
“That programme has helped encourage a particular culture here at the school, not only do we get multi-generational families, but we have staff that have been here for more than 30 years.
“My favourite things about the school are the kids and the families, they get me out of my office in the morning and afternoon and I get to interact with everyone.
“I enjoy chatting with families and engaging with the people that make it such a special place, you feel constantly supported and feel that everybody wants to contribute in some positive way which is completely amazing.”
To celebrate this milestone event, the school has hosted many events throughout the year, including school celebrations, a gala, merchandise, as well as a compilation of a history book and documentary.
“The highlight was the whole school celebration where we had an extraordinary turnout from our community of more than 300 people, it was really special,” Mr Montebello said.
