Exciting developments have been underway at Our Lady Queen of Peace in Greystanes, with Ambrose continuing to grow and innovate to meet the needs of local families.
The former parish convent has been transformed into a 50-place extension of the Ambrose preschool, offering longer operating hours and vacation care.
Opening in January 2026 and located alongside the existing long-established preschool, this expansion increases the preschool to 73 places, creating more opportunities for families to access high-quality early learning in a nurturing, uniquely Catholic environment.
Parish Priest Fr Paul Roberts played a pivotal role in bringing this vision to life and shared his enthusiasm for the project, describing it as a positive outcome for the community and a powerful example of collaboration and vision.
“For me this project represents a broadening of the participation in God’s call that occurs here on the hill at Greystanes,” Fr Paul said. “Through Ambrose Early Learning and Out of School Hours Care, OLQP Primary, St Paul’s Catholic College and the worshipping community and pastoral care of the Parish, we envision an inclusive and cross generational learning community.”
Parish Priest Fr Paul Roberts at the blessing of the icon of “St Ambrose in Parramatta” celebrated by Bishop Vincent Long late last year at Ambrose Early Learning OLQP Greystanes. Image: Supplied
He reflected on the shared foundation that unites the community. “This whole learning community, in its many different parts, is called to have a common and uniting foundation. That foundation is the life-long learning of our belonging, purpose and action in God’s mission! If each of us – and all of us – can grow in this foundation, then we will live to the full in our own lives and bless the world around us with the dignity, mercy and hope that God intends for all.”
Fr Paul also shared his hope for the impact of the new service. “I hope and pray that the gift of the families and precious young children of this new early learning venture will move the hearts of our whole Greystanes Catholic community; move us to further realise the sacredness of nurturing and growing in God’s call, from infancy and throughout the life journey.”
This initiative, made possible under Government policy to encourage creation of preschool places, has breathed new life into the one-time convent building. Community Ventures CEO Anthony Goonan said the transformation was both significant and fast paced.
“After the building was handed over to builders at the end of July, the project team worked to a very tight timeline while navigating the complexities of a structure originally built for another purpose,” he said.
Thanks to the outstanding efforts of Figtree Project Management and Girvan Constructions, the refurbishment was completed in just three months. More than 160 professionals contributed over 8,000 work hours to deliver these impressive new learning spaces.
Over the decades the parish building was used as a convent, school administration and music rooms and, most recently, Ambrose Out of School Hours Care. In August 2025, the Ambrose OSHC team moved into a new, purpose–built school hall. This facility is an example of synodality being lived in the Diocese as it was designed collaboratively with school partners and the Ambrose team to meet everyone’s needs. It features a dedicated airconditioned space for Ambrose, along with a shared futsal court, offering ample room for indoor games and activities for both school and Ambrose children.
The beautiful new playground surrounding the renovated building, now home to Ambrose Early Learning OLQP Greystanes. Image: Supplied
Newly appointed preschool Director Temika Yendun, who brings extensive experience across a range of leadership roles in the early years sector, shared her excitement for the journey ahead.
“Being part of a connected, faith-based community provides a unique opportunity to support children and families in meaningful ways.” Temika said. “I’m excited to contribute to an environment where relationships, learning, and community truly come together.
“Building strong, meaningful relationships is important to me, and I look forward to actively engaging with the school, parish, and wider local community alongside the children and families. Strengthening these connections enriches children’s learning environments and supports their daily experiences, creating a strong sense of belonging and continuity.”
These upgrades mark an exciting new chapter for Ambrose at Our Lady Queen of Peace, one defined by growth, collaboration, and a continued commitment to enriching the lives of children and families. Ambrose looks forward to the journey ahead and the many opportunities this expanded service will bring to the Greystanes community.
Limited places are still available. Visit our website to secure your child’s place.
This article was originally published in the 2026 Lent & Easter | Autumn edition of the Catholic Outlook Magazine. You can read the digital version here or pick up a copy in your local parish.
