Where are they now – Kevin Opie (SPC 1949-52)

We recently reconnected with Old Collegian and retired school principal Kevin Opie (SPC 1949-52) who has fond memories of his four years at SPC and excellent teaching which inspired his own career in education.

 

Where has life taken you since leaving SPC?

I started at St Patrick’s in 1949 with Des O’Loughlin (now Br Mark). My other close friends were John James, John Deany, Dennis Bourke and of course many others.

After four great years at the College and inspired by the wonderful teaching Brothers, I began teacher training at Toorak Teachers’ College with again John Deany and John James. That led me to a career at many schools from Glenmaggie PS as HT (and only teacher) and finally at Merri PS in Fitzroy as principal.

Do you have family ties with SPC?

Boarding school suited me because, as an only child, it presented numerous friends and hours of sport. Excellent teaching certainly helped my own teaching career.

What are your fondest memories of your time at St Patrick’s College?

Too many to mention but some stand out-Saturday movies, rowing on the lake, great variety of sports, walking “down the street” to the hamburger shop, camera club, young farmer’s club activities, cadets and many other fun things.

 

Which teacher from your time at SPC had the greatest impact on you? Why?

Br O’Malley was such an interesting character. Whether in the classroom or in the “lockers”, he always had something interesting to say.

 

How has your education shaped your professional life?

All the Christian Brothers made significant contributions to our lives.

 

How has your time at SPC shaped your personal values and your family life?

As you can see, I had a wonderful time during my four years at St Pat’s. Now I can sit back and watch the lives of my five children, nine grandchildren and six great grandchildren!