Our Community


In January 2013, Pal Buddhist School confronted a critical moment in its history. A gathering of approximately 20 individuals, including enrolled students and their families, convened in Cabramatta, filled with anticipation and uncertainty. Founder Mr. Panha Pal delivered the news that unresolved building issues and looming threats cast doubt on the school's ability to open as planned. With great respect, he offered them the option to enrol in another school before it was too late.

However, an unexpected turn of events altered the course of Pal Buddhist School's destiny and 12 days later, against the odds, the school opened its doors. It was on January 28, 2013, that the remarkable journey of Pal Buddhist School began, defying adversity to provide education and guidance to its students.

Mr. Jim Teoh

Dhamma Teacher


"There are people who stand on the outside and criticise, but I ask them,  ‘you may judge, but have you been able to achieve such a difficult task of opening a Buddhist school?'"


Mr. Jim Teoh is one of the initiators of the earliest structured Buddhist programs in Australia and he was volunteering at Pal Buddhist School as our Dhamma teacher. As a pioneer Buddhist school who dared to challenge the status quo, the first two years was encountered by more people wanting to strike us down than those willing to help and we still remember the words of encouragement of Mr. Jim Teoh (prominent Buddhist teacher) to Mr Pal.

Mr. Michael Chan

Businessman



"You don’t have enough support and help. Even if no one else stands by you, we will.”


In the first year, the school faced challenges in finances, staffing, acceptance by other educational bodies, all whilst trying to establish our presence and seek help among the Buddhist community. One of them, Mr. Michael Chan (President of the Australian Chin Lien Chinese Association) had been supporting and backing Mr. Pal. Until to this very day, Mr. Michael Chan has provided monetary and facility donations to allow our students to host our HSC exams, large events, and formal assemblies.

Ms. Renata Ratzer

English Teacher



"I know I’m 79 years old and retired, but if you ever need me to teach the kids, I will. I am here and will never leave my Pals behind.”


Our journey is a testament to perseverance and resilience, qualities that have left an indelible mark on all those associated with our institution. Ms. Renata Ratzer, a member of the inaugural teaching team, encapsulates this spirit. Her vigorous endeavour to support the school, despite residing in South Australia, manifested as she provided valuable teaching support to our 2022 HSC English students through our Pal Online platform.

Our Major Affiliates

We take pride in the unwavering embodiment of our core values by our community—generosity, service, and compassion. These principles are not just taught but are lived out daily by our dedicated students, families, alumni, staff, and benefactors. It is through the collective commitment to these values that our school stands strong today, a testament to the power of fostering a community that practices what it preaches. 

As Mr Pal emphasises, this school was built by and for the community.

Join our exceptional community of learners. Your journey starts here

>