Lauriston Girls’ School

What kind of education empowers young women? Right here, before the stately facade of Lauriston Girls’ School, is where that question found its answer. Founded in 1901 by the visionary Irving sisters, Margaret and Lilian, Lauriston Girls’ School wasn’t just about textbooks and exams. It was about fostering a spirit of academic excellence, encouraging active participation in sports, and nurturing well-rounded individuals equipped for fulfilling lives. From a modest start with just twelve students, Lauriston Girls’ School quickly gained recognition for its commitment to a holistic education. Imagine young women in the early 1900s, confidently tackling subjects like Physics and Physiology, alongside music, languages, and even elocution. Lauriston Girls’ School’s dedication to academic excellence is reflected in its impressive alumnae, a testament to the school’s legacy. Women like Hildred Mary Butler, a pioneering microbiologist, and Margaret Carnegie, a celebrated writer and art patron, all walked these halls. The school’s commitment to empowering young women extends beyond the classroom. Lauriston girls excel in sports, with a proud history in rowing, and a string of championships in basketball, cricket, hockey and more. This winning spirit is a testament to the school’s motto: “Sancte, Sapienter, Strenue” – Holiness, Wisdom, Strength. As you stand here, picturing generations of young women striding through those doors, their laughter echoing in the halls, know that Lauriston Girls’ School is more than a school. It’s a legacy of empowerment, where young women transformed into leaders, thinkers, and innovators, leaving an indelible mark on the world.