Undercliffe Primary School celebrates Education Week to recognise history of NSW public education

A southwest Sydney school has travelled back in time by dressing up in elaborate vintage inspired uniforms to celebrate 175 years of public education in NSW. See the pictures.

Students at a southwest Sydney school have travelled back in time by dressing up in elaborate vintage inspired uniforms to celebrate 175 years of public education in NSW.

Undercliffe Public School at Earlwood commemorated Education Week on Wednesday with dance and drama performances to recognise the history and achievements of the state’s public schools, teachers and students.

The 155 kindergarten to Year 6 students wore their best 1920s inspired uniforms, including tunics, pinafores, dapper suits and hats to show the history of school uniforms across the last century.

Undercliffe principal of 11 years Helen Missiris, said it was important to celebrate the history of public education as it was a “big milestone” for NSW.

“Public education caters for the diverse needs of the students and we always aim to provide the best opportunities for everyone,” she said.

Undercliffe Public School students Mika, Amaro, Henry, Tierney, Mica and Araa as part of Education Week. Picture: Richard Dobson

Students Araa, Henry, Mica and Tierney as part of Education Week where students dressed up in vintage or "olden day" inspired school uniforms. Picture: Richard Dobson

Students Sophie, Zayyan and Ryder. Picture: Richard Dobson

“We’re able to look back on how we have improved over the years and Undercliffe Public is a great place to teach the next generation.”

Year 6 student Miles Andersen, 11, said he was proud of his “olden day” costume and enjoyed learning about his school’s history.

“It’s good to know what life was back 175 years ago so we can understand how different the classrooms and uniforms were,” he said.

Students Miles Andersen, Harley Ross and Harry Gunn. Picture: Richard Dobson

Undercliffe Public School student Harry Gunn. Picture: Richard Dobson

Undercliffe Public School in Earlwood are students Harper, Heidi and Marty. Picture: Richard Dobson

Another Year 6 student Harley Ross, 11, said her nan and pop helped find her Scottish-inspired outfit.

“It has been fun to dress up because we need to know what life was like back in the day,” she said.

Year 3 teacher Xanthi Tsaknis said her students were excited to wear vintage inspired uniforms and learn about Undercliffe Public School’s history.

“It’s important for us to know the history of public education and how it’s changed so we can appreciate the things we have now,” she said.