The origin of Canterbury Boys’ High School dates back to 1917 when a deputation from the local Primary School’s parent and Citizens Association urged the Minister for Education to open an intermediate high school in the district. They were concerned there would a demand for admission to High Schools far in excess of the available places.
As a result of these representations, the Department decided to establish an Intermediate High School at Canterbury. In January, 1918, the school was ‘opened’ in the present historic Primary School buildings, under the headmastership of Mr. Ernest John Rourke B.A. and began operating with two classes and 72 students. At its foundation, the search had already begun for a more appropriate site for the new High School.
Canterbury Boys’ High School has a proud history (established in 1918) and strong traditions (‘truth and honour’, our motto is still proudly upheld today).
Canterbury Boys’ High School promotes high expectations in all aspects of school life. Our past students have achieved excellence in all fields of endeavour whether academic (Professor G.A. Wilkes, ex Dean of English at the University of Sydney), sporting (Arthur Morris cricket, George Peponis football), vocational (John Howard ex Prime Minister, Allan Morrell Aus-Trade Commissioner in China), and entertainment (Bill Collins ‘ Mr Movies’ and Grahame Bond ‘Aunty Jack’).
Once the school was selective but now our inclusive programs meet the needs of all learners and guide and nurture them to achieve their personal best and develop important life skills as good citizens in our society. Recent ex students return as mentors (Moses Bangara 2005 Dux, Nathan Hodges 2003 and Joel Campbell 2007 Captain) working to support students to achieve their dreams.
Our school endeavours to provide students with the skills, knowledge and confidence required to meet the challenges of a rapidly changing world. We encourage students to seek learning opportunities beyond the classroom by taking up TAFE ‘tasters’, undertaking work experience or work placement, experiencing real life learning experiences as coffee baristas, barmen and construction workers, and participating in excursions to sites of historical, geographical, scientific and cultural significance around Sydney.
Currently we are building strong relationships with the Australian Business Community Network and especially, Stephen Fitzgerald of Goldman Sachs JBWere. We hope this relationship will provide students with opportunities they may not previously have considered.
