St Joseph’s School is a State Integrated Catholic School for girls and boys up to Year 8 offering an education with a special Catholic Character. It is situated in Papanui North West Christchurch. The school opened in 1878 and is now the largest Catholic primary school in the diocese. As a parish school it is an integral part of the corporate life of the Papanui Parish of St Joseph and the priest, Fr Simon Eccleton, takes an active part in all school matters.

Our Vision Statement is:

Empowering students to become confident motivated learners, living Gospel values

The school enjoys strong community support, and parental involvement is welcomed in most aspects of the school's activities.

We are an extremely well resourced school. Our school buildings and grounds are wonderful assets. In addition all classrooms have two desktop computers, most rooms have data projectors, while an increasing number of classrooms are being installed with interactive whiteboards. Twenty laptop computers are used as a regular learning tool within classes.

However, without doubt, our greatest asset is "our people." There is a real sense of community, ownership, commitment and pride in our school from parents, children and staff alike. This is an integral part of the culture of our school and something to be valued highly.