MENU
On January 28th Archbishop John Wilson and local clergy officially opened the new building of our former school, St Mary’s. This school is of historical significance as it originated as our first RNDM primary form of education since 1878 when St Ethelburga’s was set up as an Orphanage and Boarding School in Deal. It became independent from St Ethelburga’s in 1923, yet still on site, surviving the First World War, but during World War II, it had to be evacuated and the staff and pupils moved to Wales to Aberkenfig. In 1945, after the war, the school moved to Glack Road, Deal, and remained until 1961 when it experienced yet another catastrophe – a fire, resulting in the school having to move to another premise in St Richard’s Road and it was officially opened in 1965.
The last RNDM Headmistress handed over leadership to a lay Head Teacher in 1965, yet sisters were still members of staff until 1986. Since then, our sisters in Beech Court have remained close to the school and its activities. So it was with joy that we RNDMs were part of the official opening of the new building. (History from Nicola Waddington – Archivist)
Our sisters write:
“Many of us know so well St. Mary’s school in Deal; the old School building was demolished last year and the construction of a new School building was completed at the end of the year. In September, with the new academic year, the parish priest blessed the school and had an opening Mass to welcome the students into the new school building. This new building was officially inaugurated by the Archbishop of Southwark, John Wilson, the Education Officials, the school Trustees, the Staff, Students and the Parents on 28th January, 2025. The Archbishop thanked everyone for the valuable contribution the RNDM’s have made for the school for so many years.
Sr. Catherine Corrigan was asked by the Archbishop to help him along with a student to cut the Ribbon for the special inauguration. Sr. Kathleen McGuire constantly keeps in close connection with the school and with the Head Teacher even since we have left Deal. She is highly appreciated for her visits and the inspiration she shares with the students; she makes an effort to be present for the all the school functions and activities.”
