Ambrose has celebrated the 50th School Aged Care service operating in Western Sydney and the Blue Mountains.
On 14 May, Bishop Vincent Long OFM Conv, Bishop of Parramatta, blessed the service at St Patrick’s Primary School, Guildford, with dozens of students, teachers, parents and parish representatives.
“We are happy to have reached this milestone of opening 50 services across the Diocese of Parramatta,” Bishop Vincent said during the blessing ceremony.
“We open this Ambrose facility which will provide a caring, safe and Gospel-centred environment in which you, the students, will enjoy, from the moment you walk through the gates to the centre.
Bishop Vincent Long OFM Conv, Bishop of Parramatta, during the blessing of the Ambrose School Aged Care service at St Patrick’s Primary School, Guildford in May 2024. Image: Gene Ramirez/Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese
“We work with you, your parents and carers, to ensure this place is where you develop deep friendship and the gifts that will enrich you and enable you to reach the potential that God has given you.
“We bless this service and the students, staff, parents and all who take part in this partnership who are dedicated to the education, development and care of young people.”
Stephen Jones, Principal at St Patrick’s, Guildford, described it being a “wonderful opportunity” that the new Ambrose service integrates Catholic values and teachings and complements the school programs and activities.
“It further supports the commitment of the Catholic Church in Western Sydney and the Blue Mountains to support families outside of the school day,” he said.
(L-R) Principal Stephen Jones, Bishop Vincent Long OFM Conv, Bishop of Parramatta and Service Coordinator Wendy Hu during the blessing of the Ambrose School Aged Care service at St Patrick’s Primary School, Guildford in May 2024. Image: Gene Ramirez/Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese
“Parents are able to drop their children off at school from 7am and pick them up after school until 6pm, knowing that they are safe and have engaged in a variety of rich and fulfilling activities.
“The activities at Ambrose provide children with opportunities to explore their interests, build new skills and assist their social development.”
For mother Lisa Abboud, having peace of mind that her children are looked after and cared for in a nurturing environment is a real blessing.
“Ambrose has worked perfectly for us being on school grounds. It is a safe and supportive environment in which my children feel comfortable,” she said.
“The staff are passionate about working with children and my children look forward to seeing them on the days they are in care.”
Service Coordinator Wendy Hu appreciates the community feel of working for Ambrose, and understands that everyone who works for Ambrose has the children’s best interests at heart.
Service Coordinator Wendy Hu with students during the blessing of the Ambrose School Aged Care service at St Patrick’s Primary School, Guildford in May 2024. Image: Gene Ramirez/Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese
“Ambrose is special because it houses a diverse community who are committed to going the extra mile to support children’s growth and wellbeing,” she said.
“Ambrose prioritises quality education and care and embraces a multidisciplinary approach that fosters collaboration and tailored support for each child.”
Anthony Goonan, Chief Executive Officer of Community Ventures, the agency delivering Ambrose early childhood services, said the opening of the 50th service is a significant celebration not just for the school and parish community, but for the wider Diocese.
“Our 50th Ambrose School Age Care service represents not just a significant milestone in expanding the outreach of mission, but is also a very real example of our accompaniment with parishes and school communities as we continue our synodal journey in the Diocese of Parramatta,” he said.
“We look forward to soon having an Ambrose service in every diocesan primary school across the Western Suburbs and Blue Mountains to provide every school community with much valued out-of-school hours and vacation care services.”
