Barker and her husband had travelled throughout New South Wales, and realised that the poor stipends of the clergy in country areas meant that their daughters could not benefit from a good education.

The principal, Ms Darling, also introduced the first school uniform during this time, in the form of an olive green dress.

[11][12] Since 1859 St Catherine's School has been situated on one suburban campus, currently 2 hectares (5 acres) in size and featuring a mix of 19th century and modern buildings, gardens and views to the Tasman Sea.

[14] Some notable facilities of the college include the Jo Karaolis Sports Centre, with facilities for netball, tennis, basketball and gymnastics and school functions; the Dame Joan Sutherland Centre for the Performing Arts, featuring a drama theatre, recording studio, dance studio, band room and music practice and teaching areas; computing facilities in the Sutherland Centre; an Independent Learning Centre and Student Meeting Room; swimming pool; junior school and library; and Year 12 common room and senior school library; The Boarding House, uniform shop, delicatessen, museum, and playgrounds.

[14] Annie Mabel Sandes who had led the (Emily McPherson) College of Domestic Economy, in Melbourne, taught here when her married name was Mrs Clifton Smith.

At its foundation the aim of the union was to keep past pupils in contact with the school and promote its good, while also encouraging younger members to continue furthering their talents after graduation.