Imagine stepping back in time to 1884. Redlands Junior School did not exist yet. Instead there was a College for Girls in Milsons Point. It had just five students. Elizabeth Liggins and Clara Arnold were co-principals.
Redlands Junior School history is rich. It reflects a commitment to education. It also reflects a changing society. The school moved to Cremorne in 1899. It was then known as the College for Girls. It was located in a large house called Redlands on Military Road.
In 1911, sisters Amy Roseby and Mabel purchased the school. They renamed it Redlands. The Roseby family played a vital role. They shaped the school’s values. They also shaped its culture.
For many years Redlands was a girls’ school. Everything changed in 1978. Redlands became coeducational. Boys were admitted into the Secondary Junior and Preparatory schools. This transformation marked a new chapter. It reflected a modern approach to education.
Redlands’ motto is Luceat Lux Vestra. This Latin phrase means Let your light shine. It encourages students to excel. It also encourages them to make a positive impact. The motto is still relevant today.
Academically, Redlands is strong. It offers the International Baccalaureate. It also offers the New South Wales Higher School Certificate. Redlands has offered the International Baccalaureate since 1988. This is longer than any other school in NSW. Five languages are taught here. They are French Spanish Latin Mandarin and Japanese.
Redlands Junior School is located on Murdoch Street. It was once the Cremorne Girls High School site. Redlands purchased the site in 1989. It provides a dedicated space for younger students.
The school has a house system. It fosters school spirit. The houses are Cowper McDouall Roseby and Dumolo. They are named after notable people linked to the school. Students show their house pride at various events. These include swimming cross country and athletics carnivals.
Redlands offers many extracurricular activities. These include sports and performing arts. Students can participate in basketball football netball and more. They can also explore music dance and drama.
The Redlands Art Prize began in 1996. It showcases Australian art. The school displays the art collection. It enriches the school environment. It also inspires creativity.
Notable alumni have excelled in various fields. They include poet Elizabeth Allen and actress Rachael Beck. Also Olympic swimmer Gergaynia Beckett and classical saxophonist Amy Dickson.
In 2024, Redlands celebrated its 140th anniversary. It marked a century and a half of education. The school reflected on its history. It also celebrated its achievements. The celebrations included community events and reunions.
Today, Redlands Junior School continues to thrive. It offers a dynamic and inspiring education. It focuses on individual growth. It encourages students to become risk-takers. Redlands prepares students. It helps them make a successful transition to secondary school and beyond.