Notable Alumni of The King's School Parramatta

The King's School, Parramatta, established in 1831, is one of Australia's most prestigious educational institutions and has produced a number of distinguished alumni who have made significant contributions across various fields. Below is a detailed exploration of some of the notable individuals who have walked the halls of this illustrious school.

Somerset de Chair

Somerset de Chair was an Australian writer, politician, and historian. Educated at The King's School from 1923 to 1930, he later attended Balliol College, Oxford. His career spanned both literature and politics, where he served as a member of Parliament in the United Kingdom.

Jack Verge

Jack Verge was a notable Australian rugby player, known for his agility and speed. He attended The King's School, Parramatta, where he honed his skills in rugby league. Verge's career in sports was marked by his exceptional ability to evade opponents, although his kicking was often inconsistent.

Bret Walker

Bret Walker is a prominent Australian barrister and legal scholar. He received his early education at Barker College and The King's School, Parramatta, before pursuing degrees in arts and law at the University of Sydney. Walker has had a significant impact on the Australian legal landscape, including his role as a commissioner in various public inquiries.

Timothy Hawkes

Timothy Hawkes served as the headmaster of The King's School, Parramatta, for nearly two decades, from 1998 to 2017. Known for his leadership and educational philosophy, Hawkes played a crucial role in shaping the school's direction and development during his tenure. His contributions to education have been recognized with an Order of Australia Medal.

Arthur Feez

Arthur Feez was an Australian legal practitioner and politician. After receiving his education at The King's School, Parramatta, he went on to pursue higher studies at the University of Sydney. Feez had a distinguished career in law and served in various capacities within the legal and political framework of New South Wales.

Connections with Other Institutions

The King's School, Parramatta, has established connections with several other prestigious institutions, contributing to its rich cultural and academic environment. For instance, it shares a traditional rugby match with St Edward's School, Oxford, showcasing its commitment to fostering international sporting relations.

The King's School, Parramatta

The King's School, Parramatta is a prestigious independent Anglican educational institution located in North Parramatta, a suburb of Sydney, New South Wales, Australia. Founded in 1831, it is one of the oldest schools in the country and is renowned for providing comprehensive education from early learning through to secondary school, primarily for boys. The school offers both day and boarding facilities, fostering a rich tradition of academic, sports, and cultural excellence.

History

The King's School was established by Reverend William Grant Broughton, the first Bishop of Australia, to educate the sons of the colonial elite. Its foundation marked the beginning of a significant chapter in Australian education, as it was the first school to be founded in New South Wales with a royal charter. The school's original site was in Parramatta, but it was moved to its current location in North Parramatta in 1869.

Campus and Facilities

The school's expansive campus in North Parramatta includes state-of-the-art educational facilities, extensive sports fields, a performing arts center, and boarding houses, providing an enriched learning environment. The former campus, known as the Old King's School, is a heritage-listed site that once housed the school but now serves different purposes.

Academic and Extracurricular Excellence

The King's School is known for its rigorous academic curriculum that prepares students for higher education and future careers. The school offers a broad range of subjects and has a strong reputation in science, arts, and humanities. The King's School is part of the G30 Schools, a global association of leading schools.

In addition to academics, the school emphasizes the importance of extracurricular activities, including sports, music, and drama. The school's sports teams are competitive in rugby, cricket, rowing, and other sports, fostering a spirit of teamwork and sportsmanship.

Notable Alumni

The King's School has produced many notable alumni who have made significant contributions in various fields. Some distinguished old boys include:

Bruce Beresford, an acclaimed film director known for works such as "Breaker Morant" and "Driving Miss Daisy."
Jock Lewes, a pivotal figure in the formation of the Special Air Service.
Andrew Upton, a renowned playwright and director, who, along with his wife Cate Blanchett, served as artistic director of the Sydney Theatre Company.