Castlemaine Primary School

Castlemaine Primary School No 119 – Celebrating 150 Years, 1855 – 2005. The milestone of a school's 150th anniversary signifies a remarkable journey filled with numerous experiences, both joyful and sorrowful, a variety of interests, a diverse array of talented individuals (including students and educators), and countless stories that evoke cherished memories or hearty laughter. This excellently crafted book chronicles the 150-year history of Castlemaine Primary School up to the present day. It offers insights into every facet of the school's history and the life within its walls. Consider the obstacles faced by the inaugural students and staff in 1855—operating from a tent, enduring dirt floors, contending with unpredictable weather, utilizing inadequate resources, managing large class sizes, and adapting to a fluctuating population due to the gold rush. Although conditions improved somewhat with the establishment of two spacious classrooms in the Norman-style National school in 1856, the challenge of instructing over 60 students remained significant. The school transitioned to its current permanent structure in 1875. This account has been compiled by Gail Woodhouse.