Look closely at the crest above the entrance. It tells a story of Mentone Girls’ Grammar School. It speaks of truth, location, and faith.
Mentone Girls’ Grammar School began in 1899. The four Simpson sisters founded it. They called it Mentone High School for Girls. It started in “Cobbalanna” on Como Parade. “Cobbalanna” now names the VCE Centre.
In 1924, the school reopened. It became Mentone Girls’ Grammar School. Evaline Mary Pearson led the school then. She also designed the school crest. Pearson created the school motto. It is “Vero Nihil Verius”. This means “Nothing truer than Truth”.
The crest is based on St George’s shield. Three stars on the crest stand for the Holy Trinity. Three wavy gold lines show the school’s bayside location. In 1962, the school became affiliated with the Church of England. A bishop’s mitre was added to the crest then. The school colours are murrey, blue, and gold. Murrey represents Christ’s blood. Blue stands for the sky and the depth of learning. Gold signifies the sands of the shore.
Prudence Lewty was a former headmistress. The Prudence Lewty Hall is named after her. The David Hunt Centre is named after a former Head Master. It is used for performing arts. The Annette Kellerman science wing and pool are also special features. Kellerman’s mother once worked at the school.
Mentone Girls’ Grammar School is located on a single campus. It is next to Mentone Beach. The school uses Mentone Beach for activities. The “Cobbalanna Senior College” is for Years 11 and 12. The Simpson Art Centre has facilities for photography and ceramics. “The Bay Cafe” provides a cafeteria-style lunch space.
Mentone Girls’ Grammar School has four houses. They are Grammar House, St Margaret’s House, McCowan House, and Kent House. Students compete in house athletics. They also compete in cross country, swimming, and music.
Mentone Girls’ Grammar School is a member of Girls Sport Victoria. Students compete in many sports. These include hockey and diving. The school won a premiership in Division 1 Diving in 2024.
Many notable women attended Mentone Girls’ Grammar School. These include Zoë Badwi, Dulcie Boling, and Nicole Bradtke. Lucy Christopher and Annette Kellermann are also alumnae. Vera Mackie and Jenny Kinder are also notable Old Girls.
Mentone Girls’ Grammar School continues to evolve. It provides a nurturing environment for girls. The school empowers them. It encourages them to be known, seen, and heard. The school prepares them for success. It blends tradition with innovation. Mentone Girls’ Grammar School shapes future leaders.