History

Our History

Montmorency Primary School has been a key part of the local community since its establishment in 1922, making it one of the longest-standing institutions in the area. The school was founded during a period of rapid growth in Montmorency, opening just one year before the Hurstbridge train line extended to the suburb and four years before electricity was connected.

At the time, Montmorency was a quiet rural township with small farms and orchards, and families seeking a more peaceful life away from Melbourne’s inner suburbs. Early education in the area was limited, with St Faith’s private school operating from 1917 and a handful of small community initiatives supporting local children. With the expansion of transport and infrastructure, the demand for a local state school grew, leading to the establishment of Montmorency Primary School.

The school has grown and evolved alongside the community. In its early years, classes were held in a modest schoolhouse, serving a small but close-knit group of students. Over the decades, the school expanded to accommodate more families moving into the area, with new buildings, playgrounds and specialist learning spaces added to support a growing curriculum.

Montmorency itself transformed from a rural outpost into a thriving suburb with a strong community spirit. The 1920s saw the construction of key landmarks such as the Presbyterian Church (1917), the Montmorency Railway Station (1923), and the Post Office (1923), all of which played a role in shaping the suburb into the vibrant place it is today.

A Growing School Community

While Montmorency Primary has grown significantly – rising from just 165 students in 2013 to over 415 today—it has retained its strong sense of community. The school is positioned at the heart of Montmorency, located at the top of the Were Street shopping precinct and just a block from Montmorency Train Station. This central location helps foster strong connections with local businesses, organisations and families, making the school a true hub of the community.

Despite its growth, Montmorency Primary has remained committed to providing a nurturing, small-school environment where every child is known and supported. The school places a strong emphasis on academic excellence, student wellbeing and innovative learning experiences. With specialist programs in Physical Education, Visual Arts, Performing Arts, Japanese, Science, and the Stephanie Alexander Kitchen Garden program, Montmorency Primary offers a broad and engaging curriculum that encourages curiosity and creativity.