From small beginnings in a house in Cook Street, Hamilton East in 1884, to the opening this year of an extensive new space supporting modern learning for modern learners, Sacred Heart Girls’ College has faith and vision. The story originates in France, 1861 where Euphrasie Barbier founded the Sisters of Our Lady of the Missions (RNDM) for the principle purpose of working in the foreign missions. We carry through that educational mission from the Sisters by offering our special character and charism whilst providing students with innovative, flexible spaces to facilitate highly effective learning and teaching.

Known initially as St Mary’s College, we were the only school for Catholic girls in the Waikato; changing to Sacred Heart Girls’ College in 1946. Now on the Clyde Street site, and with a growing roll, additions to the College became necessary: netball and tennis courts were added across the road, providing much needed outdoor facilities. In 1980 the school became integrated, and in 2012 the boarding hostel (Euphrasie House) was unfortunately closed as the buildings were not earthquake safe. Later came a new Library and Arts block which was completed in 2014.

Following a fire in 2017, an extensive rebuild was undertaken. This new space supports modern learning for modern learners, offering students innovative, flexible spaces to facilitate highly effective learning and teaching.

This is just a small snapshot of the history of the College. In 2019, an extensive archival project began (and continues) to capture over 130 years of history for past, present and future students to enjoy. Learn more about about HERstory here.

Read more about our history on the HERstory website.