In 1927 a parcel of land was purchased in Harris Park. The Blessed Oliver Plunkett Church was built and on Christmas Day in 1929, the first Mass was celebrated.
In 1930 the Church School of Blessed Oliver Plunkett opened under the auspices of the Sisters of Mercy. Australia was in the grips of the Great Depression and times were hard. The Church School shared the one space. From Monday to Friday the Church was used as a school. The space was divided in two, separated by a blackboard. Each Friday afternoon the students and Sisters would clean and prepare the Church for Sunday Mass.
As the school grew, some classes were held outdoors in the warmer months under the shade of the camphor laurel tree behind the Church. This area was fondly known as “The Roxy”, named after a popular picture house of the day.
In the 1930’s a second storey of classrooms was added above the Church. The school continued to grow and by the 1940’s, some classes were held in the Convent next door to the Church.
In the 1950’s and 1960’s, extra land was purchased next to the Convent. John Brown Cottage was also purchased to accommodate extra classes. Around this time music classes were also enjoyed in the Convent.
In the 1970’s a new two-storey wing was added to the back of the Church. The Sisters of Mercy, with their charism of mercy, compassion and justice, ended their relationship with the school in 1975 and the school continued their legacy under the guidance of lay principals.
Oliver Plunkett was canonised in 1975. From 1976 onwards, the school was known as St Oliver’s Primary School.
In 2000 the school was upgraded and extended. The Library was moved from the top floor to the middle floor.
Today the former Convent, historic Kenilworth House, has been restored to become the Holy Spirit Seminary.
In the 21st Century, St Oliver's Harris Park continues to provide quality Catholic education based on Mercy values and celebrates its multicultural community, which is articulated in the school motto: Unity in Diversity. We strive to provide a Catholic education in a Christ-centred learning environment. Our staff are committed to quality teaching and learning, and are dedicated to developing the skills and knowledge that enable the students to face new challenges with confidence and enjoyment.