Wellesley College

Amidst the tranquil beauty of Days Bay, nestled between the bush and the sea, stands Wellesley College. This isn’t just any school. It’s a place where boys from Year 0 to Year 8 embark on a journey of discovery. Wellesley College was founded in 1914, originally named Croydon. It began its life in Days Bay House, a grand building constructed in 1903 for a ship-owner turned ferry service and property developer. Imagine a luxurious hotel transformed into a school. The croquet lawn became the sports field, the bowling green turned into tennis courts, and the former bedrooms upstairs were repurposed as dormitories. Wellesley College wasn’t always the name. It was originally Croydon Preparatory School for Boys. The name changed in 1940 when Croydon merged with another school, Wellesley College, which was located in Wellington on The Terrace. The merger wasn’t without its challenges. W.H. Stevens, head of Wellesley College on The Terrace, orchestrated the move to Days Bay and the subsequent merger. He faced resistance but ultimately declared the two schools one, creating the Wellesley College we know today. The school’s motto, “Amat Victoria Curam” (Victory Through Care), reflects the nurturing environment provided here. Wellesley College maintains its Anglican heritage while welcoming students of all beliefs. It boasts a rich history. Did you know that the school’s flagpole was once the mast of the Cobar, a luxurious steam yacht turned Day’s Bay ferry? This connection to the bay’s history is just one of the many fascinating details that make Wellesley College so unique. The school emphasizes not only academics but also the development of the whole child. Leadership skills, confidence, resilience, wellbeing, and curiosity are all fostered within these walls. The school’s unique location provides opportunities for outdoor learning, with the bush and sea acting as an extended classroom. Wellesley College also offers a range of athletic sports and facilities, including a modern gymnasium and hall built in 1969. From its early days as a grand hotel to its current status as a thriving primary school, Wellesley College has always been a special place. It continues to evolve, embracing critical thinking and innovation, while honoring its rich history and unique environment.