At Tenison Woods Catholic School, our story is built on faith, shaped by love, and guided by a bold vision for the future. Inspired by our founders, Fr Julian Tenison Woods and St Mary MacKillop, we are a community where kindness, courage and authenticity matter. Our story continues to unfold — through every student, every family, every day.
A faith lived every day
"In omnibus caritas – In all things love."
At Tenison Woods, Catholic identity isn’t just about tradition — it’s about how we live, learn and grow together.
Inspired by the Josephite spirit, our community walks in the footsteps of Fr Julian Tenison Woods and St Mary MacKillop. Their legacy shapes the way we teach, the way we welcome, and the way we care for each other and our world. Here, faith is not just taught — it’s lived through kindness, action, and a deep sense of belonging.
We celebrate:
A Legacy of Hope and Education
"Education is the key to transforming lives."
– St Mary MacKillop
Our story began in 1933 with the founding of St Joseph’s School, Richmond, led by the Sisters of St Joseph. In 1997, we became Tenison Woods Catholic School after merging with Kilmara School in Thebarton — a new name that honours Fr Julian Tenison Woods, who, alongside St Mary MacKillop, believed every child deserved the chance to learn, grow, and lead a life of dignity and purpose.
Their mission still beats strongly through our school today:
Our deep partnership with St Aloysius Parish, located next door, continues this legacy through shared liturgies, sacraments, and celebrations of faith. The Josephite spirit continues to guide our school community — one built on love, inclusion, and the belief that every child deserves the chance to flourish.
A bold path ahead
"We are a school that celebrates children and their childhood — where every child matters, absolutely." – Ben Catalano, Principal
Our Strategic Plan builds on the strong foundations of our past and looks boldly to the future.
We are shaping a school community where:
Through continued investment in learning spaces, staff development and student support, we are creating an environment where children can be kind, be brave and be themselves — ready to thrive today and lead tomorrow.
