Archbishop Bernard Longley was the main celebrant at a Holy Mass on the occasion of the 40th anniversary of the “new” St Patrick’s Primary School, Wolverhampton, writes Jozef Lopuszynski.
In September 1964, the borough council announced the building of a new ring-road, requiring St Patrick’s church and school to be demolished. With great foresight, Canon Anthony Allport, parish priest, decided that the then derelict St Thomas’s Church of England Secondary Modern School in Graiseley – within the parish boundaries – should be purchased.
Folowing numerous difficulties, Canon Allport and parishioner Brian Waddell approached local MP Jennie Lee. Within days, final approval for the purchase was granted. Wanda Wozmirska, headmistress, said: “In September 1970 the renovated school was opened with four main classes and an additional Reception class. Bishop Cleary formally blessed and opened the school on January 17 1971.”
In September 1976 an extension to the main part of the school and a new nursery were opened. Mrs Wozmirska added: “As we celebrate our 40th anniversary, we give thanks to the continuous efforts of Canon Allport, Fr Brendan Carrick, Fr Eamonn Corduff, the governors and parishioners of St Patrick’s school together with the previous staff, governors, parents and past pupils.
“In the Mass of Thanksgiving, we also remembered all those who have died, especially John McConnell, who was a governor for many years and Elaine Thomas, who worked in the school kitchen for 14 years.”
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