150 years: Alfredton Primary School

Originally called Western Public School Ballarat, the school opened in 1871 as a common school. Its name was changed to Alfredton shortly after it became a common school.

The first head teacher was Robert Williams and there were 85 students in attendance.

Classes were held in a leased building on Gillies Street.

The school served the rural area on the western fringe of Ballarat. Miners from the Sir Charles Napier Mine also sent their children here.

Student enrolments increased to 111.

A new brick building was built on a new site.

It had two rooms and could accommodate 150 students.

Student numbers were low for many years as mining in the area declined.

Enrolment had become so low that Alfredton School became an adjunct of Pleasant Street State School (No. 695). This meant that the students from Alfredton had to travel to Pleasant Street State School for their daily classes. 

An increase in student numbers meant classes could be taught at Alfredton again. 

A building boom in the surrounding area caused another classroom and a staffroom to be added in 1960.

The school added two more classrooms due to population increases in the area.

The school's name changed to Alfredton Primary School.

The school observed its 100th anniversary.

A centenary plaque was unveiled and a tree was planted.

A new library and classroom complex opened.

Alfredton Primary School is still in operation.