The free community event will celebrate the generations of students, staff and families who have shaped the school since it was established in 1876. It is a chance to reconnect with old friends, share memories, explore the school’s history and see what learning at Coogee Public School looks like today.
When: Saturday 12 September 2026, 11am-3pm
Where: Coogee Public School, corner of Byron Street and Coogee Bay Road, Coogee
One hundred and fifty years of Coogee Public School
Coogee Public School was established in 1876. NSW Government heritage records describe it as historically significant as one of the schools established under the Council of Education and as the first school provided with “pavilion” classrooms. Its campus represents an important chapter in the development of public education in New South Wales.
Explore the school’s history
The school hall will be transformed into a museum-style exhibition showcasing 150 years of Coogee Public School. Visitors can explore historical photographs and information, K-6 artworks created for the anniversary and years of school photo books.
One classroom will recreate an earlier era alongside a classroom showing what learning looks like today. The Student Representative Council will collect visitors’ memories and reflections for a special memory book. The library downstairs will also be open with more displays from the school’s history.
Coogee Public School
150th anniversary treasure hunt
Current Coogee Public School students can collect a treasure hunt sheet from the Information Tent on Byron Street, then explore the school to solve clues and have their answers checked and stamped by staff at each location.
Students who return a completed sheet to the Information Tent will receive a special 150th anniversary badge. Badges will also be available for members of the public to purchase for $5.
A day for children
There will be children’s activities, with face painting, hair colour spraying and Auskick throughout the day. Coogee Care Centre will also run a soccer, craft and games corner.
Food and refreshments
Food trucks will open from 11am, serving burgers, fried chicken, ice cream and coffee. The school canteen will also be open and running a cake stall.
See the anniversary mural
Families are encouraged to visit Gurgama to see the 150th anniversary mural created by students with artist Mandy Salter. The mural celebrates the school’s history and community through the creativity and contributions of its students.
History book
A reprint of the school’s 1876-2001 history book, expanded with a new section bringing the story through to 2026, will be available from the Information Tent for $25.
Celebration program
- 11am-3pm: Historical photographs, memorabilia, student artwork and displays in the school hall, A Block and C Block; food, refreshments and children’s activities.
- 12pm-12.20pm: Coogee Public School Band performance on Gurgama.
- 12.30pm-1.15pm: Student-led 150th Anniversary Assembly on Gurgama, featuring a Welcome to Country from Aunty Lola, staff reflections, student performances, the school captains and local Members of Parliament.
- 1.30pm-3pm: Live music featuring past and present Coogee Public School parents and students.
- 3pm: Event concludes.
A celebration for the whole community
Principal Matt Townsend thanked the staff, students, families and wider community whose work and support have brought the celebration together.
“Most importantly, we hope the day feels like a celebration of the whole Coogee Public School community, past and present. It is a chance to come back, reconnect, share memories, see how the school has changed and celebrate what makes Coogee Public School such a special place.”
Visit the Coogee Public School website
Historical information source: NSW Government and Coogee Public School records.
