The House system at Ipswich Girls’ and Junior Grammar School is more than just a tradition; it’s a vibrant part of the school’s culture, fostering competition, camaraderie, and a sense of belonging among students. Introduced to provide a fairer and more inclusive form of competition, the House system allows students to engage in a variety of activities beyond sports, including debating, acting, and singing. This inclusive approach ensures that every student can participate and shine.
The introduction of the House system was a significant shift from the previous Form Competition. The challenge of naming the Houses was met with enthusiasm, and after much deliberation, it was decided to honor past Headmistresses who had made significant contributions to the school. Initially, three Houses were established: Hunt, White, and Armitage. As the school grew, Connell and Carter Houses were added.
Hunt House is named after Miss Fanny Elizabeth Hunt, the first Headmistress of Ipswich Girls’ Grammar School. Born in Reading, England, Miss Hunt was a trailblazer, becoming the first woman to graduate in Science from the University of Sydney. She took up the challenge of starting a new school in Ipswich in 1891, and her intelligence, tenacity, and dedication laid the foundation for the school’s future success. Despite her frail health, she left a lasting legacy, later founding Girton College in Toowoomba.
Connell House honours Miss Maud Connell, who served as Headmistress from 1902 to 1905. Known for her passion for languages and her academic excellence, Miss Connell’s tenure saw the school flourish in both numbers and academic achievements. She introduced various extracurricular activities, including a tennis tournament, a Croquet Club, and swimming lessons, enriching the students’ school experience.
White House is named after Miss Helen Frances White, the longest-serving Headmistress from 1906 to 1927. Miss White was a beloved figure in the Ipswich community, known for her efforts to make boarding school life as homely as possible. She introduced the School’s Honour Boards, organised charitable events, and supported the war effort during World War I. Her consultative approach with students and her emphasis on holistic education left a lasting impact.
Armitage House commemorates Miss Lilian Mary Armitage, who led the school through the challenging times of the Great Depression and World War II. A strict disciplinarian with a heart for her students, Miss Armitage introduced a Commercial Class to enhance job opportunities for students and organised various fundraising activities to support the school. Her resilience and leadership during difficult times were a source of inspiration for the entire school community.
Carter House is named after Miss Katherine Cameron Carter, who served as Headmistress from 1948 to 1964. Known for her gentle and kind approach, Miss Carter played a crucial role in revitalising the school post-war. She introduced the Parents and Friends Association, expanded extracurricular activities, and fostered a nurturing environment that encouraged students to excel in both academics and personal development.
The House system at Ipswich Girls’ and Junior Grammar School is a testament to the school’s commitment to fostering a well-rounded education. Each House, named after a remarkable woman, carries forward the legacy of its namesake, inspiring students to strive for excellence in all areas of school life. Through friendly competition and a spirit of unity, the House system continues to be a cornerstone of the school’s vibrant community.
Board of Trustees Ipswich Girls’ Grammar School including Ipswich Junior Grammar School
ABN 82 776 447 213 | CRICOS No.0053D
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