Our School History

The Rich History of Seven Hills North Public School

The story of Seven Hills North Public School stretches back to 1883, when it first opened as Seven Hills Public School. At the time, the school was at the heart of a small farming community, with children walking from nearby orchards and farmlands to learn their letters and numbers. Our very first principal, Mr Lambert, laid the foundation for a school that would become a cornerstone of the community.

In 1885, the school moved to its present site, welcoming 84 students under the guidance of new principal Mr Cookson. Back then, school was a lively gathering place for local families, and each child’s arrival marked a small step toward building the future of the area.

By 1901, enrolments had dipped to just 25 students, but the school endured. During the First World War, many teachers across New South Wales left to serve, and untrained staff were often employed. Seven Hills was fortunate—our principal stayed on, determined to provide continuity and stability in uncertain times.

The 1920s brought new opportunities for students to play and grow. A tennis court, built in 1922 on the spot where our COLA now stands, became a hub of activity. Despite the growing community, Seven Hills remained a one-teacher school until 1942, a testament to the dedication of the staff and the resilience of the students who thrived under one roof.

The 1950s marked a turning point. The original school building, a symbol of our early years, was destroyed by white ants. In its place, a large portable classroom was built, a building that still stands today as “the Cottage,” serving Learning Support and the GA’s Room. Around this time, Seven Hills Public School opened nearby, and our school was renamed Seven Hills North Public School. There was even talk of closing our school, but local families, who knew how important the school was, petitioned to keep it open, ensuring its survival.

By 1972, enrolments began to rise, and our first demountable classroom was installed. This began the “demountable era,” with temporary classrooms scattered across the grounds. For more than 30 years, these buildings shaped the daily life of students and teachers, becoming an iconic part of the school’s story right up until 2003.

The 1980s brought rapid growth. With Matthew Pearce Public School opening in 1982, the area was booming. Proposals to close Seven Hills North surfaced again, but the community’s determination prevailed. By 1983, 204 students filled the classrooms, reinforcing the school’s vital role in the neighbourhood.

Parents and staff continued to dream of a permanent, modern school building. After years of planning and advocacy, a turning point came in 1998 at a memorable P&C meeting with Principal Mr Howard Hawkins and State Minister for Education The Hon. John Aquilina, when the famous words were spoken: “We must do something for Seven Hills North.”  Years of planning, design, and persistence paid off, and in Term 4, 2003, the brand-new classrooms opened their doors, marking a new chapter in our school’s history.

From its humble beginnings among orchards and farmland to its modern, purpose-built facilities, Seven Hills North Public School has always been defined by resilience, community spirit, and a love of learning. For more than 140 years, generations of students have walked these grounds, leaving a legacy that continues to inspire today—and will carry us proudly into the future.