Once, this land was a sea of strawberries. Now, let’s step onto the grounds of Lynfield College. This school has a story that stretches back more than six decades.
Lynfield College began its journey in 1958. It started small with only 93 students. The school has transformed into a large multicultural college. It now boasts modern facilities for learning.
Before Lynfield College, this area was a vital Maori route. It connected the Waikato and Tamaki Makaurau regions. Early European missionaries saw it as deserted. Later, a defensive BlockHouse gave its name to the surrounding area.
By the mid-20th century, strawberries covered this land. That is where Lynfield College now stands. The school’s crest includes a plough. It symbolizes this agricultural past.
On February 3, 1958, Lynfield College opened. Ninety-three students gathered in front of D block. Two of them even came barefoot. The grounds were muddy. Students and teachers used planked bridges to cross ditches. The sounds of construction filled the air.
In 1959, the Acting Prime Minister officially opened Lynfield College. The 20-acre site featured three football fields. It also had eight sealed tennis courts. Two hundred flowering shrubs replaced the mud.
The school has a motto that guides its way. It is Disce Vivere. This means Learn to Live. The school’s crest includes symbols of preparation, knowledge, resilience, and guidance.
Student numbers grew rapidly in the early years. By 1977, Lynfield College was the second biggest school in Auckland. It had 1500 students. Traditions of academic excellence were established. The school encouraged participation in sports and culture.
The school adapted to changing times. Computers became essential. New programs bridged the gap between school and work. Traditional subjects evolved into technology. Lynfield College also embraced international education.
In 1995-6, the library transformed into a media center. New facilities such as a gymnasium and drama suite were added. In 2002, an astroturf surface and a technology block were opened.
Lynfield College continues to thrive. It encourages students to excel in various fields. The college has sports captains and arts and cultural captains.
Lynfield College was originally planned to be called Blockhouse Bay High School. The name Lynfield came from a poultry farm. Sir Alfre Bankart owned it. It was located opposite the school’s main entrance.
Lynfield College is more than just a school. It is a place of learning. It is a place of growth. It is a place where students prepare to live full lives.
Remember the strawberries. Remember the mud. Remember the vision that created Lynfield College.