Fancy a tale of female empowerment in education? Here we are standing before Shelford Girls’ Grammar. This independent Anglican day school for girls was located in Caulfield, a suburb of Melbourne. Shelford Girls’ Grammar boasted a rich history and a commitment to nurturing young women.
Shelford Girls’ Grammar was established in 1898. Emily Dixon founded the school on Glen Eira Road. The school later moved to Elsternwick. Dora Mary Petrie Blundell became the second principal in 1904. She served until 1921. Dora was supported by her sisters Lucy Annie Blundell, Fanny Blundell, and Margaret Helen Petrie Blundell.
In 1922, the Blundell sisters gifted Shelford Girls’ School to the church. Archdeacon Henry Langley oversaw the temporary relocation to St Mary’s Jubilee School Hall. Ada Mary Thomas was appointed headmistress. The school reopened as a Church of England school connected to St Mary’s Church in Caulfield.
Archdeacon Langley moved Shelford Girls’ Grammar to Hood Crescent in Caulfield North in 1923. Archbishop Lees officially opened the school at its new location. It stood adjacent to St Mary’s Church. Ada Mary Thomas remained headmistress until 1945. She shaped the school’s character for over two decades.
Shelford Girls’ Grammar offered a comprehensive education. More than 600 students thrived within its walls. The school had a coeducational Early Learning Centre. Toddlers from 18 months old could start their learning journey here. There were also groups for 3 and 4-year-olds.
Shelford Girls’ Grammar students pursued the Victorian Certificate of Education. They also had access to Vocational Education and Training courses. The school fostered a sense of community through a house system. Students engaged in inter-house competitions.
Shelford Girls’ Grammar was a member of Girls Sport Victoria. It also belonged to the Junior School Heads Association of Australia. The school was part of the Alliance of Girls’ Schools Australasia too. Shelford was a non-selective entry school.
Shelford Girls’ Grammar also offered many activities and support for students. Accelerated learning programs catered to gifted students. There were academic assistance programs and peer support networks. Students could participate in art, drama, and music. The school celebrated achievements through awards ceremonies. Career development programs prepared students for their futures. Competitions spanned academic, artistic, and sporting fields. Cultural and indigenous programs promoted diversity. Events like debating clubs and formals enriched school life. Excursions and camps offered unique learning experiences. A chapel provided a space for spiritual reflection. Sports programs promoted health and teamwork. Technology and vocational programs prepared students for the modern world. Volunteering opportunities encouraged community engagement.
Several notable women attended Shelford Girls’ Grammar. Brigitte Duclos became a television and radio presenter. Olympia Valance found fame as an actor on Neighbours. Krystal Weir represented Australia as an Olympian.
In 2025, Shelford Girls’ Grammar will merge with Caulfield Grammar School. This marks a significant change in the school’s history.
The motto of Shelford Girls’ Grammar was “Quaerite Primo Regnum Dei”. This translates to “Seek ye first the Kingdom of God.” The school’s slogan was “Thrive”.
Shelford Girls’ Grammar has left an indelible mark on education. Its legacy of empowering young women will continue.