The History of East Hills Boys High School

EST. 1955
"making learning our number one priority"

The History of Our School

History of East Hills Boys High School

Establishment and Official Opening (1955–1956)
East Hills Boys High School was established in 1955 during a period of rapid population growth in the St George and South-western Sydney region. The increasing demand for quality secondary education for boys in the area led to the founding of the school. The official opening took place on May 26, 1956, and was conducted by the Rt. Hon. Robert J. Heffron, then Minister for Education and a prominent figure in NSW politics with strong commitment to public education. At its inception, the school welcomed approximately 500 students, reflecting the sizeable community it served.

Founding Principal and School Identity (1955–1962)
Mr M.S. Cannon, appointed as the first principal, played a fundamental role in shaping the school’s culture and ethos during its early years. His leadership was pivotal in establishing traditions and standards that would endure. Mr Cannon selected the school motto, “Servio,” which translates from Latin as “I serve.” This motto underscored the values of commitment, leadership, and community service which he wished to instil in students.

The school badge, designed by Mr Cannon or his team, presents a traditional shield split into four quarters by a cross. The cross symbolises the importance of spiritual values and faith, reflecting the cultural context of the time when religious influence was strongly present in education. Each of the four sections of the shield represented essential domains they valued:

Country: a tribute to loyalty, patriotism, and civic responsibility
Home: representing family, community ties, and support
Learning: emphasising educational achievement and intellectual growth
Reward: recognising the outcomes of hard work and success

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While the design has evolved visually with modernisation over the decades, these four core ideas continue to form an integral part of the school’s identity.

Student Leadership and Early Graduations (1957)

Just two years into its operation, East Hills Boys High School established a formal Student Leadership Team, indicative of a strong focus on student voice and responsibility. Ross Barnett was appointed as the very first School Captain, setting a leadership example for future cohorts. This formal structure helped foster a sense of accountability and community among students.

1957 was also notable because it saw the first group of senior students graduate after completing the Leaving Certificate, which was then the definitive secondary school qualification in NSW, allowing students to pursue tertiary education or employment.

The Cadet Corps and Military Pathways

The school inaugurated its Cadet Corps program in 1957. This was an important extracurricular initiative designed to develop discipline, leadership, and physical fitness. It provided military-style training and was highly regarded as a stepping stone for students interested in careers in the Australian Defence Force. Over the years, numerous alumni used the Cadet experience at East Hills to gain entry to prestigious military institutions such as the Royal Military College, Duntroon, and later the Australian Defence Force Academy (ADFA). This tradition significantly contributed to the school's reputation for producing well-prepared, disciplined graduates.

Sporting Excellence

From its early years, East Hills Boys High School distinguished itself as a powerhouse in sport, making a lasting impact in cricket, swimming, athletics, and rugby league. The school developed strong teams and encouraged broad participation, fostering school spirit and promoting fitness. Successes in regional and state competitions served not only to enhance the school’s prestige but also provided students with valuable opportunities to represent their community and develop teamwork skills. Sporting excellence became an important pillar of the school’s identity and continues to be so.

Public Speaking and Debating Achievements

Beyond sports, East Hills Boys High School demonstrated early and sustained excellence in public speaking and debating. Beginning in 1961, the school’s teams won numerous local and statewide competitions. This focus on oratory, critical thinking, and effective communication enriched the students’ academic education and contributed to their leadership development. The school’s commitment to debating reflects a broader educational philosophy valuing articulate, informed, and confident young men ready to engage actively in society.

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