“The Good Retain, The Better Follow” is more than just a motto. It is the guiding principle of St Johns Diocesan Girls Higher Secondary. Founded in 1876 this institution has a legacy woven into the fabric of Kolkata.
St Johns Diocesan Girls Higher Secondary began with a vision. British missionary Angelina Margaret Hoare sought to advance women’s education in British India. Imagine her standing here where we stand now. She envisioned a school not confined to any elite group. From humble beginnings with just 16 students St Johns Diocesan Girls Higher Secondary blossomed.
In 1894 the Clewer Sisters named it St Johns Diocesan School. From 1908 to 1931 it was eastern India’s only Christian women’s college of good repute. This prestigious status however faced a turning point.
A student Beena Das attempted to assassinate the Governor of Bengal in 1931. As a result the British Government revoked the college status. This event is a significant moment in the school’s history. It highlights the passion for freedom during British rule.
St Johns Diocesan Girls Higher Secondary shifted its focus. It dedicated itself to female education only. The school has more than 3800 female students. It stands as one of Bengal’s most prestigious girls’ schools.
The school’s campus blends old British architecture with newer buildings. Picture lush green surroundings. The school features playgrounds a park and even a chapel. These facilities create a well-rounded environment for students.
St Johns Diocesan Girls Higher Secondary boasts seven laboratories. These include Physics Chemistry and Biology labs. There are also computer labs. The library named Dio Bibliothique holds over 35000 books. The Music and Audio-Visual room called La Sale Diphony hosts conferences.
The school publishes an annual magazine called Papyrus. It showcases student achievements and literary talents. Celebrations mark important days. Independence Day Christmas and St Johns Day fill the calendar.
The four houses represent important figures. Angelina Margaret Hoare is represented by the pink house. Sister Mary Victoria is represented by the blue house. Sister Hilda Francis is represented by the green house. Beena Das is represented by the yellow house.
St Johns Diocesan Girls Higher Secondary engages in social services. Students donate onions and potatoes to St Joseph’s old age home. This tradition reflects the school’s commitment to community welfare.
Numerous awards recognize the school’s excellence. The Best Maintained School Award was won for three consecutive years. The Mother Teresa International Award also recognized the school.
Notable alumni include Lady Abala Bose and Gayatri Chakravorty Spivak. Also included are Sharmila Tagore and Mala Sinha. These women have excelled in diverse fields. They exemplify the school’s commitment to nurturing talent.
Today St Johns Diocesan Girls Higher Secondary continues to empower young women. It upholds its motto. The school encourages students to retain the good and follow the better. As we stand here we can feel the echoes of its rich past and the promise of its bright future.