By Nicole Kelly, Partner at Presence
I recently had the chance to chat with Michael McCann, the Principal of Newcastle East Public School (NEPS), and let me tell you, this place is not just a school, it’s a piece of living history and a true heart of the community in Newcastle. As the oldest school in Australia that’s still up and running, NEPS has some amazing stories to tell, and I’m excited to share them with you, along with how we at Presence Real Estate are getting involved.
Picture supplied by NSW Department of Education
A Walk Down Memory Lane
NEPS started way back in 1816 – yeah, you read that right, 1816! It began during the early days of Newcastle as a penal colony. Imagine how much has changed since then! The school has been through all kinds of transformations, just like Newcastle itself. Now, it sits proudly in a spot it’s called home since 1982, showing off a cool mix of old-school charm and new-school facilities. It’s like stepping into a time machine but with all the modern comforts.
More Than Just a Classroom
What really strikes me about NEPS is how it’s so much more than a place for reading, writing, and arithmetic. Principal McCann is super passionate about making the school a central part of the neighbourhood. It’s not just for the kids; it’s a spot where the whole community comes together for all sorts of fun and activities. This approach has turned NEPS into a real community hotspot, not just another school on the block.
Learning and Growing Together
The vibe at NEPS is pretty special. They’re all about creating a balanced and inclusive place where kids love to learn. The teachers are dedicated to making sure every student gets the attention they need, in a way that makes learning fun and cool. It’s the kind of place where being smart is the trend, and that makes a huge difference in how kids see school and learning.
Teaming Up with Presence Real Estate
We at Presence Real Estate are super excited to be part of the NEPS family. Our involvement, especially with cool events like the upcoming Christmas Carols, is our way of showing support for this awesome school and its role in bringing people together. It’s not just about sponsoring; it’s about being part of something that really matters in our community.
The Road Ahead
Looking forward, NEPS is sticking to its guns as a top-notch school and a community pillar. Its unique mix of respecting the past, embracing the present, and preparing for the future makes it more than just a school. It’s a key part of our community’s life and energy.
So, that’s the story of Newcastle East Public School – an incredible place that’s teaching kids and bringing people together. We at Presence Real Estate are thrilled to be a part of their journey and can’t wait to see what the future holds for this historic and vibrant community hub. Here’s to many more years of learning, growing, and coming together at NEPS! 🌟📚🎉
