St Martin De Porres Laverton is the founding school of the five primary schools that make up the Holy Trinity Education Community (HTEC). Located in Bellin Street, it opened in 1972 and operated under the guidance of the Presentation Sisters whose mission was to present the face of God to all those they serve.

The school is named in honour of St Martin de Porres who was known for a life of serving others and particularly for his compassionate care of the sick and poor.

St. Martin de Porres was born in Lima, Peru, on December 9, 1579, to a Spanish father and a freed Panamanian slave of African or Native American descent. Abandoned by his father, Martin grew up in poverty. As a child, he often gave away food to those in need. After two years of primary school, he was apprenticed to a barber-surgeon, learning hair-cutting and medical skills.

Due to racial laws, Martin was barred from joining religious orders. At 15, he joined the Dominican Convent of the Rosary in Lima as a servant. He took on roles as a barber, healer, cook, and caretaker for the sick. He helped establish an orphanage and a hospital. Despite racial discrimination, he was allowed to take vows as a lay brother in 1603.

Assigned to the infirmary, Martin gained renown for his compassion, treating everyone equally, from nobles to slaves. Known as “Father of the Poor,” he founded an orphanage for abandoned children and slaves.

Martin was close to St. Juan Macías and St. Rose of Lima. In 1639, at 60, he fell gravely ill and died on November 3. Church dignitaries carried his body to burial, an unprecedented honor. He was beatified in 1837 and canonized in 1962.

St. Martin de Porres, patron saint of multiracial harmony, innkeepers, barbers, and public health workers, is remembered for his deep faith, service to others, and care for all of God’s creation. His feast day is November 3.

Our school motto, "Love and Service to All," embodies the core values that guide our community. It reflects our deep commitment to fostering a culture of kindness, compassion, and generosity. Through love, we nurture strong relationships built on respect, inclusivity, and understanding. Through service, we encourage our students to actively contribute to the well-being of others, both within our school and in the wider community.

This motto serves as a daily reminder of our dedication to creating a faith-filled environment where everyone is valued, supported, and inspired to make a positive impact in the world.