History
In 1884 the presbytery of the church constructed the first classrooms - up to five classes were taught there. Although the school is run primarily by the Dominican Nuns, male priests visited the church even in the early years after its founding in the 19th century, taking an interest both in examinations and in cultural activities such as musical events.
In 1928 the Christian Brothers established St Patrick’s School for Boys nearby. That school continued until a reorganisation in 1973 saw its closure. The younger boys went to St Joseph's while the older boys transferred to St Kevin's College. In 1984 there was a further reorganisation in which the St Joseph's became a full primary school for both boys and girls up to year 8. The red-brick building built for St Patrick's is now used for junior classes of St. Joseph's while the older pupils are taught in newer buildings, closer to St Patrick's Basilica in Reed Street.
A Dominican choir was introduced in 2008 as part of ongoing efforts to maintain the influence of Saint Dominic. The school remains closely associated with St Kevin's College, and reports that 99% of its pupils go there after they leave St Joseph's.
Read more about this topic: St Joseph's School, Oamaru
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