Our Story

Living the spirit of our faith

St John Vianney's is proud to be part of Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese's system of 80 Catholic primary and secondary schools operating across Western Sydney and the Blue Mountains providing more than 43,500 students with a high-quality, low fee Catholic education.

At St John Vianney's, students are empowered to be responsible, reflective and independent learners. Our school culture is characterised by justice, tolerance, forgiveness and respect for each other.

Our school is committed to creating a learning community where:

every child feels safe, secure, accepted and loved.

students are empowered to reach their full potential.

children become reflective, independent and responsible learners.

curiosity, creativity, imagination and innovation are valued.

education is an enriching, challenging, and fulfilling experience.

individual differences are accommodated through a range of teaching strategies and support programs.

Our School Crest

Our school crest was designed by founding parish priest, Father O’Neill and contains the Latin words of our school motto: “I will show you the way to Heaven.” These words were said by St John Vianney (1786-1859), a French priest known for nurturing a love of God in his parish. Our school community continues to be inspired by his example to know, love and serve God.

Our School Crest

St John Vianney's Primary School Doonside School Crest

Our history

St John Vianney’s Primary was established in 1986 by parish priest, Fr John O’Neill. The school opened with a total enrolment of 68 students, accommodated in portable classrooms..

Sr Ursula Smith RSJ, a distant cousin of St Mary of the Cross MacKillop, was the founding Principal.

Over the years, our school buildings have been expanded and upgraded to become the well-resourced contemporary learning space it is today.

In 2016, we celebrated St John Vianney’s Primary School’s 30th anniversary. We look forward to providing high-quality Catholic education in the future.