“Be strong and of good courage.” That’s the motto echoing through the halls of Mount Scopus Memorial College Gandel Besen House Campus. Today, we’re standing before a place of learning steeped in history and community spirit.
Mount Scopus Memorial College is more than just a school. It’s an independent co-educational Jewish day school. It embraces early learning, primary and secondary education. The college has several campuses. This one is in St Kilda East.
Let’s delve into the story of Mount Scopus Memorial College. The college’s roots trace back to 1949. It opened on St Kilda Road in Melbourne. The name comes from Mount Scopus in Jerusalem. This symbolized a connection to Jewish heritage. After the 1948 Arab-Israeli War, Mount Scopus remained under Israeli control.
Mount Scopus College was Melbourne’s first co-educational Jewish day school. It began with 143 students. The school aimed to serve Holocaust refugees arriving in Melbourne. They needed a place to learn and grow. By 1955, the college had grown significantly. It had over 600 primary and secondary students. They were spread across two campuses.
The college continued to expand. There is also a campus in Caulfield South. The Burwood campus opened in 1953. A branch existed in Kew until 1996.
Mount Scopus College became Mount Scopus Memorial College in 1952. This was in memory of those who died in war. It also honored the six million Jewish people killed during World War II.
Jewish life and learning are central to Mount Scopus. The college wants students to connect with their Jewish identity. They provide opportunities inside and outside the classroom. These opportunities cater to students of all ages.
The Alter Family School of Jewish Studies and Ivrit coordinates the Jewish program. Informal Jewish research teams bring learning to life. They organize extra-curricular activities and events. Tenth graders can participate in an Ulpan program. They travel to Israel for 6–10 weeks.
Performing arts are important at Mount Scopus Memorial College. Students can choose Drama and Dance electives. Music is taught from primary through to VCE. The college hosts many performances. These include a College Musical and Senior School Play.
Sport also plays a significant role in school life. Mount Scopus is a member of the Eastern Independent Schools of Melbourne. The college has won many EISM premierships over the years.
Mount Scopus Memorial College has shaped many notable individuals. Alumni include politicians, business leaders and artists. The college has had several principals. Dan Sztrajt is the current principal.
As you stand here, consider the rich history of Mount Scopus Memorial College Gandel Besen House Campus. It stands as a beacon of Jewish education. It fosters community, identity, academic excellence and holistic growth.