About Us

• The school was founded in 1902 by Miss E Carter in an old home in Dalton Road, Mosman, originally owned by the Dalton Family. 

• In 1916 Miss M Grant took over the running of the School and remained as principal until 1945.  The house was leased at first and later purchased by the Grant Family.  Miss Grant introduced the brown gingham uniform to the School which the children continue to wear to school with pride. The uniform is part of the schools unique character and is a wonderful way of introducing children to the traditions of school and also provides them with a sense of belonging. 

• In 1946 Miss E Laver took over from Miss Grant and later retired in 1965 and gave the School to Mrs J Webb who had been employed at the School since 1953. Mrs Webb become the Director and in 1973, the house in Dalton Road was sold, becoming a retirement home and the School moved to its present site in Belmont Road.  Mrs Webb gave the School to the parents in 1973 to ensure its survival and it became a non-profit making company limited by guarantee.  

• In 1980 Mrs J Larcombe was engaged as the new Teaching Director. The School’s premises were purchased from Mosman Council in February 1984 having been previously leased. At the end of 1988, Mrs Larcombe retired and Mrs L Potter became the new Director. 

• During 1988, the School achieved the long held objective of owning the property at 71 Belmont Road, Mosman, unencumbered.

• At the end of 1995, Mrs Potter retired as Director to further her studies. Miss K Odell was employed as the new Director in 1996 and resigned in August 2005 expecting her first child.

• In 2006, Mrs P Kordish commenced as Teaching Director with The Killarney School and remained in this position for 17 years.

• In November 2023, Ms J Jeung commenced as Teaching Director with The Killarney School.

At Killarney, every child belongs from the very first day. We are a small, close-knit community preschool where every child is truly known by their teachers, by their peers, and by families around them.

Belonging is at the heart of Killarney. We believe children flourish when they feel safe, valued, understood and connected to the people around the,.

For generations, Killarney has been a special place for children and families. Our traditions, shared experiences and strong sense of community, create an environment that feels like an extension of home: warm, welcoming, inclusive, and filled with care. Families do not simply attend Killarney; they become part of its story.

Our teachers build meaningful, trusting relationships with every child. They take the time to understand each child's personality, interest, strengths and needs, creating a place where children feel secure to explore, discover and grow.

We believe that when children feel seen and supported, they thrive. At Killarney, we nurture a sense of self, so that every child leaves, not just ready for what comes next, but confident in who they are.