Whitefriars College celebrates 65 years since its foundation this year. The first group of students was welcomed to the College on 14 February 1961. Fr Frank Shortis was the founding principal.

The College was founded by the Carmelite Order of Priests and Brothers as a Catholic secondary school for boys. This was in response to a strong demand from local Catholic families who wanted an educational institution grounded in their faith.

The Carmelite tradition has deep roots, stretching back to the late Twelfth Century in the Holy Land. There, a small group of Christian hermits settled on Mount Carmel, inspired by a spirit of prayer and reflection. Despite challenges that led them to leave Mount Carmel, they carried the essence of their way of life, spreading it across the world.

Today, the Carmelites continue to witness God’s presence in people, nature, the Word of God and within the human spirit. Their mission is to cultivate a spirit of prayer, reflection, justice and peace—values which are central to our educational approach. At Whitefriars, these values are embraced through service, respect for individuals and fostering a strong sense of community. We live in allegiance to Jesus Christ, drawing inspiration from Mary, the Prophet Elijah and other holy figures who have followed the Carmelite way.

The College is structured around a house-based, Vertical Pastoral Care system, with each house dedicated to a Carmelite saint or blessed figure. These figures serve as inspirations for our students as they pursue excellence in education based on deeply human and Christian values.

The College has produced a series of 6 short videos to tell something of the story of the last 65 years.