Community

At St Joseph’s, community is at the heart of everything we do. We are proud to be a welcoming, inclusive school where students, families, staff and parish come together to form strong, respectful partnerships. From the moment families join our school, they are embraced as valued members of the St Joseph’s community.

We believe that when families and school work together, children thrive. Our close connections foster a sense of belonging, trust and shared responsibility for each child’s learning, wellbeing and faith journey. Families are encouraged to be actively involved in school life through events, celebrations, learning opportunities and volunteering, creating meaningful connections and lifelong friendships.

Guided by our Catholic values, we place a strong emphasis on kindness, respect, restorative practices and care for others. These values shape our relationships and ensure our school is a safe, nurturing environment where every child is known and supported. At St Joseph’s, community is more than a word — it is the foundation of a school where students feel connected, confident and proud to belong.

Parish Connection

ST JOSEPH’S PARISH

The Parish of Boronia is one of the 7 parishes in the Knox Deanery. It came into being after dividing from Ferntree Gully in 1964. Encompassing Bayswater, Boronia, The Basin and Wantirna South, the ‘founding’ Parish Priest, Fr. J.L.O’Neill, had 16 acres of land placed in his charge. Succeeding priests gradually added to the original buildings and facilities as both the Parish and its associated St Joseph’s school grew in numbers.

As the population expanded, surrounding parishes broke away, becoming independently established, until the final configuration made up the Parish of Boronia, St. Joseph’s and St. Bernadette’s.

The Parish offers many opportunities for involvement centring around the celebration of Mass, both Saturday evening and Sunday mornings.

Detailed information about Parish history and services can be obtained from the Parish House located on the church site at 212 Boronia Road, Boronia or by phoning 9761 2124.

Parish Priest: Fr. Mirek Knap CR

Parish Secretary: Mrs Leigh Bilston & Mrs Gerri Cheyne

Pastoral Associate: Ms Luise Westwood

Phone: 9761 2124

Mass Times

Saturday: 9.10 am and 6 pm

Sunday: 9:00 am and 11:00 am

Weekday: 9:10 am Monday, Tuesday, Friday

Website: http://pol.org.au/boronia/Home.aspx

School Advisory Council

The School Advisory Council is the coordinating body of all other Parent Committees. Meeting twice a term, the S.A.C. invites representatives from these committees to present current progress reports and to be informed about matters pertinent to school policies and plans. This ensures that communications are dynamic and that the welfare of our children continues to be our first priority. The S.A.C. comprises a Chairperson, Parent Representatives, Principal, Teacher Representative and Parish Priest.

If you are interested in more information about the S.A.C. or would like to join, please contact the Principal via the Office.

CommUNITY @ St Joe’s

CommUNITY at St Joseph’s provides an opportunity for school families to come together to support the students, events and wider St Joseph’s community. Parents are integral to the development and expression of the Community Spirit here at St. Joseph's. Parents are invited to become involved in their children's school life by joining or supporting one or more of our parent committees. Everyone's contribution is valued and vital to the general administration of our school. The tasks listed are some of the possible activities parents and carers could consider in helping bring the school community together. In nominating to help out, there is no process that would make a volunteer an automatic coordinator; rather, a chance to work together with support and direction from the school, should it be deemed necessary.

Opportunities to get involved include:

Special Lunch Orders
Fete Committee
School Improvement Committee
Working Bees
Mother’s & Father’s Day stalls
Parish Pastoral Council
School Advisory Council
Community Big Breakfast
Raffles & Fundraising
School Disco

Get Involved

We warmly encourage families to get involved in the life of our school and be part of the vibrant CommUNITY at St Joseph’s. There are many opportunities to contribute, connect and support our students, whether through volunteering, attending events, or lending a helping hand when needed. Families are invited to keep an eye on ClassDojo and the school newsletter for call-outs and opportunities to get involved, or to reach out to the school at any time to express interest. Together, we build a strong, connected community where everyone belongs.

Fete

The St. Joseph’s & St. Bernadette’s Parish Community Fete is a much-loved annual highlight on our school and parish calendar, usually held toward the end of March. This vibrant event brings together students, families, parishioners, and the wider community for a day filled with fun, connection, and celebration. The fete features a wide range of stalls, raffles, games, and activities that cater to all ages, creating a joyful and welcoming atmosphere for everyone who attends.

A standout feature of the day is the stage program, proudly supported by the school, where our talented students shine. The school choir performs alongside live music and community acts, adding energy and excitement throughout the event. The fete is made possible through the generous support of families, volunteers, and parish members, reflecting the strong partnership between our school and parish. More than just a fundraiser, the fete is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate our shared values, strengthen relationships, and enjoy time together as one connected community.