The rich legacy of the renowned St. Patrick’s School and Junior College, Pune, has its inception from truly humble beginnings in the Banatwala Stables where the primary school was started in 1952. It gained momentum in 1953 when the formal inception took place following a transition in name from St. Anthony’s to St. Patrick’s.
The fruition of this remarkable process in these past decades is purely due to the dedication and enthusiasm of the pioneers who unflinchingly served the underprivileged children. Bishop Andrew D’Souza was a true visionary, whose tireless service brought about the winds of change, making him go down in the annals of history.
The primary section started with a mere 37 students, guided by 3 teachers. St. Patrick’s was granted recognition by the Pune Cantonment Board in the year 1955.
This was followed by the school acquiring the status of a High School in 1972, for which Bishop William Gomes was responsible, with the help of the Diocese of Eichstatt. To honour this assistance, the hall in the new building was dedicated to that Diocese and is called The Eichstatt Hall.
It was a matter of great pride to see the first ever batch of 15 students sit for the SSC examinations in 1973.
Significant contributions by Mother Stanislaus and Mother Hilda were made and definitely deserve due mention. This was carried forward by the Fatima Sisters who took it upon themselves to successfully manage the institution and take it to greater heights.
When the school passed into the capable hands of Bishop Valerian D’Souza, a talented and versatile educationist, it saw the start of a golden period and many milestones were achieved. He was instrumental in the development of St. Patrick’s Home for boys and girls which was renovated and equipped with better facilities.
A separate block was constructed for the primary section and the Higher Secondary with the Commerce faculty was an important addition.
The year 2002 was the Golden Jubilee of this institution and it was celebrated with pomp and ceremony. As in keeping with life’s balance of emotions, a sombre moment was witnessed with the superannuation of Bishop Valerian D’Souza, and the reins passed into the hands of Bishop Thomas Dabre, who was entrusted with the responsibility of carrying forth the legacy.
Taking the St. Patrick’s baton forward was another great visionary, Reverend Father Alex Quadros, in the capacity of the Head of the esteemed institution. Realising the enormity of his duties, he was intuitively blessed and brought about a transformation by initiating the construction of the new school building.
These years were a milestone in history of this institution with construction work in progress, taking St. Patrick’s further along the path of success.
2012 was a year of landmarks achieved, a year of success, growth and fulfilment of dreams. A vision which was realised. All of this was made possible with the unflinching support and dedication of the management.
It is a matter of great pride for the institution that the school presently has 2200 students from Kindergarten to Junior College, 55 teaching staff and many more supportive staff who ensure the smooth running of this veritable institution.
Fr. Vincent Pereira is successfully taking care of the future generations of young boys and girls who have entrusted their educational and holistic aspirations to the bountiful and dedicated institution of St. Patrick’s.
