Long Bay College Celebrates its 50th Anniversary

In late 1974, Ian Sage took on the tasks of establishing Long Bay College as its founding principal. Like any new school it had no established systems, no set traditions and little basis for community confidence.   It was also unique – set beyond the far edge of its suburb, in rural land, with inadequate street access.   Its 12 temporary buildings housed all functions but on an exposed site with little shelter.   The first cohort of teachers soon consolidated as a team, notably under the leadership of the most senior staff.   From February 1975, the needs of the 258-student body were being met.

One of the identified key priorities was to create a student-centred environment, where learning was collaborative, subject choices were driven by interest, and discipline was built on mutual respect. Broad achievement grading, flexible subject entry, and a six-day timetable that allowed for varied lesson structures and meaningful student engagement were all introduced.

But Ian and the foundation staff did not do it alone. The support of parents was invaluable—whether through setting up school systems, fundraising, or simply believing in the vision of what Long Bay College could become. Their contributions helped shape a school that has now thrived for nearly 50 years. As we look ahead to Long Bay College’s 50th anniversary in 2025, we reflect on the dedication, leadership, and community spirit that laid the foundation for what the college is today.

 

Related articles

Notices

Please see below dates for Year 11 – 13 students last day of classes at Long Bay College 2025.

Year 11 – Friday, 31st October

Year 12 –...

Tuesday 21 October

Join us in celebrating the creativity, talent, and dedication of our Year 11 and Year 12 Art students at this year’s...

Wednesday 5 November

There will be a half-day strike on Wednesday 5 November from 1:15pm – 3:15pm.

The school day will end for all students from Year 9 – 13...

Thursday 23 October

The school will be closed for Year 10 to 13 students due to PPTA industrial action.

Long Bay College will be open for instruction for...

Monday 6 October - Friday 21 November

Lumino the Dentists Mobile Unit is scheduled to come to Long Bay College from Monday 6th October – Friday 21st November.

Lumino the...

Important Dates
Last Day of Classes for Year 11 Students
Friday 31 October
Last Day of Classes Year 12 Students
Wednesday 22nd October
Last Day of Classes for Year 13 Students
Tuesday 28 October
Last day of 2025 for Year 9 & 10 Students
Thursday 4 December
Junior Prizegiving Assemblies
Thursday 4 December
Academic Prizegiving at Bruce Mason Centre
Monday 1 December
Year 9 - Camp 2
Wednesday 26 - Friday 28 November
Junior Prizegiving Assemblies
Thursday 4 December
Last Day of 2025 for Year 9 and 10 Students
Thursday 4 December
Academic Prizegiving at Bruce Mason Centre
Monday 1 December