Our Patron Saint
St. Anthony of Padua
St. Anthony of Padua (1195–1231) was a renowned Franciscan priest, theologian, preacher, and miracle worker. Born in Lisbon, Portugal, as Fernando Martin de Bulhoes, he dedicated his life to serving God, spreading the Gospel, and helping the poor and needy. Inspired by the Franciscan martyrs, he joined the Franciscan Order and took the name Anthony.
Known for his wisdom, powerful preaching, and deep compassion, St. Anthony travelled across Europe sharing the message of faith, peace, and love. He was a devoted follower of Jesus Christ, a great teacher of theology, and a strong advocate for the poor and suffering. Canonized in 1232 by Pope Gregory IX, St. Anthony is today revered worldwide as the “Wonder Worker” and remains a symbol of faith, humility, learning, and service to humanity.
About Our School
The origins of St. Joseph's Chapel and St. Anthony's High School, located at 19 Market Street, Kolkata, date back to the 1860s. As the Catholic community in Calcutta grew, particularly among Tamil migrants who had come seeking employment, the need for a place of worship and education became evident.
Recognizing this need, Fr. H. Everard S.J. initiated efforts to establish a chapel and school for the community. Through generous contributions, land was purchased and St. Joseph's Chapel was built. The chapel was formally blessed on March 19, 1865, the Feast of St. Joseph.
Alongside the chapel, a small school was established where children were taught reading, writing, and religious instruction, laying the foundation for what would later become St. Anthony's High School.
Over the years, St. Anthony's High School has produced distinguished alumni who have gone on to serve the Church and society with dedication. Among them are Archbishop Henry D'Souza of Kolkata, the Late Bishop Eric Benjamin of Darjeeling, and several priests who began their journey as students and altar boys of the institution.
The school proudly celebrated its 150th anniversary (Sesquicentenary) in 2013–14 with year-long cultural and inter-school events, culminating in a grand closing ceremony at Science City, Kolkata. The school auditorium was renovated and named the Camille Limbourge Auditorium in honour of one of the institution's founding fathers. In 2015, the Higher Secondary Department was established, further strengthening the school's commitment to quality education. Continuing its rich legacy, the school commemorated 160 years of excellence with an inter-school festival featuring competitions in academics, arts, and sports.
The Principal's Message
Nelson Mandela rightly said, “Education is the most powerful weapon you can use to change the world.” St. Anthony’s High School aims to instil in the students the powerful words of Nelson Mandela that education alone can transform oneself and the society. St. Anthony aims to inspire the students for all' round and holistic development that will eventually bring transformation of oneself and the society. The students’ welfare is our top most priority. I appreciate our parents fraternity for supporting in every aspect. I also laud the relentless efforts of our teachers for giving their best in each child. I am very sure through collaborative effort we can achieve more to benefit our students who are the future leaders.
Confucius reminds us that, ultimately, “Education breeds confidence. Confidence breeds hope. Hope breeds peace.” May we continuously empower our students to be confident, self-possessed young citizens who bring positive change to their communities and the world.