Introduction

The St Joseph’s school badge consists of four different emblems, divided by horizontal and vertical lines, and printed on a green background above the motto Ora et Labora.The white emblem and lettering on a green background represent our traditional school colours: green and white. White, the colour of purity, represents the solid foundation built upon a heritage of fine traditions and time-tested values. This supports the green of new life, youth and generations of Josephians, enabling them to meet the changing waves of time.

The Star is the world-wide emblem of the Brothers of the Christian Schools or La Salle Brothers who administered St Joseph’s School from 1950 to 1988. The star itself is the symbol of light and of the sense of direction. For thousands of years travelers have used the stars for navigation and guidance. Our years in the school should give us a sense of purpose and direction in life, they should shed light on where we are going and set before us noble ideals.

The Lily is a white flower which is used widely to represent purity of body and mind. In the Christian tradition, it is particularly associated with St Joseph, the patron saint of our school.TheLampis a common symbol of education and learning. It represents the enlightenment which education should bring to our minds by removing the darkness of ignorance and prejudice.The Letters S and Jsuperimposed on each other simply represent the name of our school.

These are Latin words meaning prayer and work. They underline two values which are basic to the ideals and traditions of our school. The first word emphasizes our relationship with God. We believe that the basis of real respect for people, irrespective of race or creed, is an acknowledgement of our common bond as humans, as children of the same God.

The second word is a constant reminder to us that if we wish to achieve anything worthwhile in life, in our studies, work, games, etc, we must be willing to make an honest effort to achieve it. We all share an obligation to society to do our work to the best of our ability.