The Ruyton Reporter (formerly known as Ruyton Reports) captures the essential Ruyton Girls' School experience for the broader school community. It has been produced since 1986.The record has strong historic significance as it pertains to one of the oldest girls' school in Victoria, Australia. Ruyton was founded in 1878 in the Bulleen Road, Kew, home of newly widowed Mrs Charlotte Anderson (now High Street South). Thus, the record can be used as a reference example for research into Victorian school history. It also gives insight into the types of activities and events undertaken at Ruyton Girls' School during the period of its production. The record's significance is further enhanced by its exceptionally well-documented provenance, having remained the property of Ruyton Girls' School since its production.Colour publication printed on paper with staple binding. 16 pages.Front Page: 1 / 9 / theRUYTON / REPORTER / 9 / 7 / spring / Music: / the Soul of Ruyton / R / RECTE ET FIDE LITER / 12 Selbourne Rd / Email: [email protected] / Kew VIC 3101 / Tel: 9819 2422 / Fax: 9818 4790 / INSIDE: / New / President / of the / Board / The Play's / the Thing / Music, / Music, / Music / New Look / Junior / School / PRINT POST APPROVED / PP341999 00026 / STOP PRESS: / 120 YEARS CELEBRATION / BEGINS WITH ORDER FORM FOR / THE 1998 CALENDAR (SEE INSIDE) Edited by Deborah Forster /ruyton girls' school, ruyton, school, students, newsletter, ruyton reports, ruyton news, kew, victoria, melbourne, girls school

The Ruyton Reporter (formerly known as Ruyton Reports) captures the essential Ruyton Girls' School experience for the broader school community. It has been produced since 1986.The record has strong historic significance as it pertains to one of the oldest girls' school in Victoria, Australia. Ruyton was founded in 1878 in the Bulleen Road, Kew, home of newly widowed Mrs Charlotte Anderson (now High Street South). Thus, the record can be used as a reference example for research into Victorian school history. It also gives insight into the types of activities and events undertaken at Ruyton Girls' School during the period of its production. The record's significance is further enhanced by its exceptionally well-documented provenance, having remained the property of Ruyton Girls' School since its production.Colour publication printed on paper with staple binding. 20 pages.Front Page: 1 / 9 / theRUYTON / REPORTER / 9 / 8 / autumn / Celebrating the Spirit of Ruyton / R / RECTE ET FIDE LITER / 1878 - 1998 / 12 Selbourne Rd / Email: [email protected] Web site: www.ruyton.schnet.edu.au / Kew VIC 3101 / Tel: 9819 2422 / Fax: 9818 4790 / INSIDE: / VCE: / A Vintage / Year / CELEBRATING 120 ORA / News / SPIRITED / YEARS! The Pageant: Henty / STOP PRESS / a Special Rowing / EXCITEMENT IN / Club / THE AIR FAIR / Lift-Out / SATURDAY / 28 NOVEMBER / INSIDE / Edited by / Deborah Forster / PRINT POST APPROVED / PP 341999 00026 /ruyton girls' school, ruyton, school, students, newsletter, ruyton reports, ruyton news, kew, victoria, melbourne, girls school

The Ruyton Reporter (formerly known as Ruyton Reports) captures the essential Ruyton Girls' School experience for the broader school community. It has been produced since 1986.The record has strong historic significance as it pertains to one of the oldest girls' school in Victoria, Australia. Ruyton was founded in 1878 in the Bulleen Road, Kew, home of newly widowed Mrs Charlotte Anderson (now High Street South). Thus, the record can be used as a reference example for research into Victorian school history. It also gives insight into the types of activities and events undertaken at Ruyton Girls' School during the period of its production. The record's significance is further enhanced by its exceptionally well-documented provenance, having remained the property of Ruyton Girls' School since its production.Colour publication printed on paper with staple binding. 16 pages.Front Page: 1 / 9 / theRUYTON / REPORTER / 9 / 8 / spring / Celebrating the Spirit of Ruyton / R / RECTE ET FIDE LITER / 1878 - 1998 / 12 Selbourne Rd / Email: [email protected] Web site: www.ruyton.schnet.edu.au / Kew VIC 3101 / RUSHing into / Tel: 9819 2422 / THE ROYCE / Fax: 9818 4790 / INSIDE: / Festival of / Performing / Arts / Honours / for our / Principal / ACHIEVERS / All / ORA News / Edited by / Deborah Forster /ruyton girls' school, ruyton, school, students, newsletter, ruyton reports, ruyton news, kew, victoria, melbourne, girls school

The Ruyton Reporter (formerly known as Ruyton Reports) captures the essential Ruyton Girls' School experience for the broader school community. It has been produced since 1986.The record has strong historic significance as it pertains to one of the oldest girls' school in Victoria, Australia. Ruyton was founded in 1878 in the Bulleen Road, Kew, home of newly widowed Mrs Charlotte Anderson (now High Street South). Thus, the record can be used as a reference example for research into Victorian school history. It also gives insight into the types of activities and events undertaken at Ruyton Girls' School during the period of its production. The record's significance is further enhanced by its exceptionally well-documented provenance, having remained the property of Ruyton Girls' School since its production.Colour publication printed on paper with staple binding. 16 pages.Front Page: Edited by Deborah Forster / 1 / 9 / theRUYTON / REPORTER / 9 / autumn / 9 / aFANTASTIC / FAIR! / INSIDE: / PRINT POST APPROVED / PP 341999 00026 / Class of '98 12 Selbourne Rd / Who's Who at the Celebration Fair Kew VIC 3101 / R / Partial Immersion en Francaise RECTE ET FIDE LITER Tel: 9819 2422 / News of Old Girls / Fax: 9818 4790 / Email: [email protected] Web site: www.ruyton.vic.edu.au /ruyton girls' school, ruyton, school, students, newsletter, ruyton reports, ruyton news, kew, victoria, melbourne, girls school

The Ruyton Reporter (formerly known as Ruyton Reports) captures the essential Ruyton Girls' School experience for the broader school community. It has been produced since 1986.The record has strong historic significance as it pertains to one of the oldest girls' school in Victoria, Australia. Ruyton was founded in 1878 in the Bulleen Road, Kew, home of newly widowed Mrs Charlotte Anderson (now High Street South). Thus, the record can be used as a reference example for research into Victorian school history. It also gives insight into the types of activities and events undertaken at Ruyton Girls' School during the period of its production. The record's significance is further enhanced by its exceptionally well-documented provenance, having remained the property of Ruyton Girls' School since its production.Colour publication printed on paper with staple binding. 16 pages.Front Page: Edited by Deborah Forster / 1 / 9 / theRUYTON / REPORTER / 9 / spring / 9 / The New Learning Communities P2 / "I know I cannot teach / anyone anything. I can only / provide an environment in / which he can learn" / Carl Rogers / INSIDE: / PRINT POST APPROVED / PP 341999 00026 / Ruyton One to One 12 Selbourne Rd / New Board Members Kew VIC 3101 / R / Enchanted Place RECTE ET FIDE LITER Tel: 9819 2422 / ORA / Fax: 9818 4790 / Email: [email protected] Web site: www.ruyton.vic.edu.au /ruyton girls' school, ruyton, school, students, newsletter, ruyton reports, ruyton news, kew, victoria, melbourne, girls school

The Ruyton Reporter (formerly known as Ruyton Reports) captures the essential Ruyton Girls' School experience for the broader school community. It has been produced since 1986.The record has strong historic significance as it pertains to one of the oldest girls' school in Victoria, Australia. Ruyton was founded in 1878 in the Bulleen Road, Kew, home of newly widowed Mrs Charlotte Anderson (now High Street South). Thus, the record can be used as a reference example for research into Victorian school history. It also gives insight into the types of activities and events undertaken at Ruyton Girls' School during the period of its production. The record's significance is further enhanced by its exceptionally well-documented provenance, having remained the property of Ruyton Girls' School since its production.Colour publication printed on paper with staple binding. 16 pages.Front Page: Edited by Deborah Forster / 2 / 0 / the RUYTON / REPORTER / 0 / autumn / 0 / farewell to our Queen of Hearts / THE END OF / AN ERA / INSIDE: / PRINT POST APPROVED / PP 341999 00026 / ENTER results 12 Selbourne Rd / Sinatra by Starlight Kew VIC 3101 / R / News from Pre-Prep & Kinder RECTE ET FIDE LITER Tel: 9819 2422 / New Staff / Fax: 9818 4790 / Email: [email protected] Web site: www.ruyton.vic.edu.au /ruyton girls' school, ruyton, school, students, newsletter, ruyton reports, ruyton news, kew, victoria, melbourne, girls school

The Ruyton Reporter (formerly known as Ruyton Reports) captures the essential Ruyton Girls' School experience for the broader school community. It has been produced since 1986.The record has strong historic significance as it pertains to one of the oldest girls' school in Victoria, Australia. Ruyton was founded in 1878 in the Bulleen Road, Kew, home of newly widowed Mrs Charlotte Anderson (now High Street South). Thus, the record can be used as a reference example for research into Victorian school history. It also gives insight into the types of activities and events undertaken at Ruyton Girls' School during the period of its production. The record's significance is further enhanced by its exceptionally well-documented provenance, having remained the property of Ruyton Girls' School since its production.Colour publication printed on paper with staple binding. 12 pages.Front Page: 2 / 0 / the RUYTON / REPORTER / 0 / spring / 0 / welcome Mrs Anderson / Board President Fay Marles AM greets our new Principal, Carolyn Anderson / STOP PRESS / Email: [email protected] / PRINT POST APPROVED / PP 341999 00026 / As our School Song says... 12 Selbourne Rd / "At sport we've made a lasting name / Our Old Girls too uphold our fame" Kew VIC 3101 / R / Congratulations to Olympians, RECTE ET FIDE LITER Tel: 9819 2422 / Georgina Douglas ('90) 5th in Single Sculls / Claire Mitchell-Taverner ('88) member of Fax: 9818 4790 / the Gold Medal Hockeyroos team / Visit our NEW Website: www.ruyton.vic.edu.au /ruyton girls' school, ruyton, school, students, newsletter, ruyton reports, ruyton news, kew, victoria, melbourne, girls school

The Ruyton Reporter (formerly known as Ruyton Reports) captures the essential Ruyton Girls' School experience for the broader school community. It has been produced since 1986.The record has strong historic significance as it pertains to one of the oldest girls' school in Victoria, Australia. Ruyton was founded in 1878 in the Bulleen Road, Kew, home of newly widowed Mrs Charlotte Anderson (now High Street South). Thus, the record can be used as a reference example for research into Victorian school history. It also gives insight into the types of activities and events undertaken at Ruyton Girls' School during the period of its production. The record's significance is further enhanced by its exceptionally well-documented provenance, having remained the property of Ruyton Girls' School since its production.Colour publication printed on paper with staple binding. 16 pages.Front Page: 2 / 0 / the RUYTON / REPORTER / 0 / summer / 1 / THE GREAT / debate / Back (L-R): James Watson, Brendan Ferguson (Scotch College / School Captain), and John Ronan (Scotch Debating Prefect) / Front Row (L-R): Emma Purdue, Emma Peyton and Nicole / Siemensma (Ruyton Debating Captain) for more see Page 9 / STOP PRESS / Email: [email protected] / PRINT POST APPROVED / PP 341999 00026 / Global Girls 12 Selbourne Rd / Focus on Junior School: Kew VIC 3101 / R / Fairies, Hobbits & Goblins RECTE ET FIDE LITER Tel: 9819 2422 / Saints and Inquiring Minds / Fax: 9818 4790 / New International Links / 2002 Twilight Concert / Rock 'n Roll at Ruyton /ruyton girls' school, ruyton, school, students, newsletter, ruyton reports, ruyton news, kew, victoria, melbourne, girls school

The Ruyton Reporter (formerly known as Ruyton Reports) captures the essential Ruyton Girls' School experience for the broader school community. It has been produced since 1986.The record has strong historic significance as it pertains to one of the oldest girls' school in Victoria, Australia. Ruyton was founded in 1878 in the Bulleen Road, Kew, home of newly widowed Mrs Charlotte Anderson (now High Street South). Thus, the record can be used as a reference example for research into Victorian school history. It also gives insight into the types of activities and events undertaken at Ruyton Girls' School during the period of its production. The record's significance is further enhanced by its exceptionally well-documented provenance, having remained the property of Ruyton Girls' School since its production.Colour publication printed on paper with staple binding. 16 pages.Front Page: 2 / 0 / the RUYTON / REPORTER / 0 / autumn / 1 / Oh! for O'Connor / Front Row L to R: Star of the 2001 Twilight Concert, Caroline O'Connor / with Stephanie Franet, Georgina Smibert and Amelia Batrouney / Back Row L to R: Camilla Hodgson, Alice Bamford, Alice Fraser and Emma Nairn / STOP PRESS / Email: [email protected] / PRINT POST APPROVED / PP 341999 00026 / women of the world: 12 Selbourne Rd / 2000 leavers move forward Kew VIC 3101 / R / RECTE ET FIDE LITER Tel: 9819 2422 / meet the 2001 school leaders / Fax: 9818 4790 / bigger playingfield for girls' sport / ruyton's federation website / www.federation.ruyton.vic.edu.au /ruyton girls' school, ruyton, school, students, newsletter, ruyton reports, ruyton news, kew, victoria, melbourne, girls school

The letters address three parents of daughters who attended Ruyton Girls' School at the time — Mrs Friedman, Mrs Horan and Mrs McDonald. The letters invite the three mothers to make a contribution to the School's war scholarship fund by making homemade sandwiches or cakes to help cater the annual School dance, or providing a small financial donation towards it. Although the letters are signed by Hilda Daniell, given that the handwriting differs across all three examples, it is possible the content of the letters were scribed by a student or assistant to the Principal. The war scholarship fund (also referred to as the Scholarship Fund) was managed by the treasurer of the Old Ruytonian's Association (ORA); Ruyton's alumnae community. The earliest mention of Ruyton's war scholarship fund is in the Ruytonian December 1918, which recalls how the Senior Dramatic Club performed Jane Austen's "Pride and Prejudice" in the Kew Recreation Hall and raised over £100 to "provide a Ruyton scholarship for the daughter of a soldier who has given his life for his country." In the Ruytonian December 1955, the criteria for the war scholarship fund was revised to prioritise students in the following order: the child of a deceased serviceman, an ex-serviceman, and an Old Ruytonian. Other editions of the Ruytonian from this period recount how students also participated in fundraising activities to support the scholarship. It is unclear when the war scholarship fund ceased.The letters are historically significant as they were written by Miss Hilda Daniell, the longest serving Principal of Ruyton Girls' School from 1913-1952. She had enrolled as a student at Ruyton in 1893, and then appeared in a list of teaching staff dated 1898. When Hilda became Principal in 1913, Ruyton was still located on A'Beckett Street in Kew, Victoria. Hilda had purchased "Tarring" (now Henty House) from the old Henty family estate in 1919 to accommodate the growing School. In 1920, Hilda, teachers and the students moved to Ruyton's new location at "Tarring", 12 Selbourne Rd, Kew. The building became home for Ruyton’s boarding students and included a flat for Hilda to live onsite. Hilda passed away in March 1970. The record's significance is also supported by its strong provenance, having been produced by Ruyton Girls' School and donated to the Archives by the daughter of a former student.Three individual loose sheets of cream coloured paper, each printed with Ruyton Girls' School's name and emblem. All sheets are handwritten with black/charcoal ink and signed by H. (Hilda) Daniell.Reverse: RGS008/2024/0007.1 / Reverse: RGS008/2024/0007.2 / Reverse: RGS008/2024/0007.3 /ruyton girls' school, students, scholarship, school, ruyton, principal, victoria, high school, senior school, day school, letter, miss hilda daniell, hilda daniell, henty, tarring, old ruytonians association, kew recreation hall, kew

The handwritten letter addresses Mrs McNaughton (also known as Kathleen "Kitty" Hepworth), thanking her for her gift to Ruyton Girls' School. The Ruytonian December 1952 also acknowledges this gift, describing Mrs McNaughton as having "presented the school with a beautiful Ruyton flag." Kathleen McNaughton was a former Ruyton student, having enrolled in 1925. The letter is signed by Helen Cole. Research indicates that the Ruyton flag was probably one used in inter and intra-school athletic competitions known as 'flag races', which were popular in the first half of the 20th century. In such races, teams ran relay-style, with their School's flag held aloft in the manner of an 18th century soldier charging into battle. Each flag was an important public symbol of school identity, and was made with care and used with pride. Though once a ubiquitous part of any school's sporting equipment, one flag races fell out of favour in the later 20th century, racing flags were usually discarded. However, it is unclear whether the flag gifted by Mrs McNaughton was indeed used for flag racing.The record has strong historic significance as it was written by a former notable student, Helen Gordon (maiden name Cole). Helen started at Little Ruyton in Prep in 1940 and finished Year 12 in 1952 as School Captain, Bromby Captain, Form Captain for Matric, Tennis Captain, Hockey Captain, Swimming Vice Captain, and an award for Best All-Round Girl. She also played baseball for Victoria. After finishing school, Helen went on to graduate from the University of Melbourne as a physiotherapist in 1956. Her first position at age 19 involved setting up clinics with the Victorian Health Department Poliomyelitis Rural division. Helen’s strong ties to Ruyton continued when she held the position of President of the Old Ruytonians’ Association from the start of 1966 to the end of 1967. In 2019, Helen received an Order of Australia Medal for service to community health as a physiotherapist. She was also the recipient of the 2022 Victorian Senior Achiever Award at Parliament House. Helen passed away in July 2023 at age 88. The record's significance is further enhanced by its strong provenance, having been produced by Ruyton Girls' School and donated to the Archives by a familial connection.One loose sheet of cream coloured paper containing a handwritten letter, and printed with Ruyton Girls' School's name and emblem.Obverse: TELEPHONE / HAWTHORN 331 / R / RUYTON GIRLS' GRAMMAR SCHOOL / RECTE ET FIDE LITER / SELBORNE ROAD. / KEW E.4. / Dear Mrs Macnaughton, / On behalf of the Ruyton / girls, I would like to thank you most / sincerely for your generous gift of our / new Ruyton flag. / As we have not had one for so / many years, this one will be most / acceptable, and we hope ^ we will be able / to exhibit in the youth marches and / on other occasions / Last week it was shown in / assembly, and everyone was so thrilled / that we are eagerly looking forward / to an opportunity to show it off. / Thanking you once again / Yours sincerely / Helen Cole / (Head Prefect) / Reverse: RGS008/2024/0008 /ruyton girls' school, students, school, ruyton, victoria, high school, senior school, day school, letter, old ruytonians association, kew

Ruyton Girls' School has a long tradition of awarding prizes to students at annual "Speech Night" events. Speech Night commenced at Ruyton in 1878; the same year in which the School was founded by Mrs Charlotte Anderson. The Ruytonian December 1944, which recounts events from the last year to date, notes the 1943 Speech Night was the sixty-fifth iteration of the occasion. Previously, students were awarded customary books produced in England which were bound in navy blue leather, with the School's name and motto debossed in gold leaf. Speech Night at Ruyton is an extraordinary occasion. It is a time when the School gathers to celebrate both the year just lived and the contribution of Year 12 girls to the life of the School. It is a night of stirring student speeches, acknowledgement of student endeavour and excellence and awe-inspiring performances by School choirs and ensembles. Historic publications note Speech Night would typically "open with the distribution of prizes, followed by 13 musical items, a play, French Dialogue and four tableaux." This particular record is associated with the Speech Night held on 14 December 1944 at the Recreation Hall in Kew, Victoria.The record is historically significant due to the time period in which it was produced. This significance is strengthened in the way the record stands as a testament to the way Ruyton recognises, celebrates and engages its student through programming and events. The record's significance is further enhanced by its strong provenance, having been produced by Ruyton Girls' School and donated to the Archives by a familial connection to a former notable student.A5 size pamphlet printed on cream coloured paper with navy blue ink. Two pages, folded in half.Reverse: RGS008/2024/0009 /ruyton girls' school, students, school, ruyton, victoria, high school, senior school, day school, letter, old ruytonians association, kew, speech night, programme

Ruyton Girls' School has a long tradition of awarding prizes to students at annual "Speech Night" events. Speech Night commenced at Ruyton in 1878; the same year in which the School was founded by Mrs Charlotte Anderson. The Ruytonian December 1944, which recounts events from the last year to date, notes the 1943 Speech Night was the sixty-fifth iteration of the occasion. Previously, students were awarded customary books produced in England which were bound in navy blue leather, with the School's name and motto debossed in gold leaf. Speech Night at Ruyton is an extraordinary occasion. It is a time when the School gathers to celebrate both the year just lived and the contribution of Year 12 girls to the life of the School. It is a night of stirring student speeches, acknowledgement of student endeavour and excellence and awe-inspiring performances by School choirs and ensembles. Historic publications note Speech Night would typically "open with the distribution of prizes, followed by 13 musical items, a play, French Dialogue and four tableaux." This particular record is associated with the Speech Night held on 17 December 1945 at the Recreation Hall in Kew, Victoria.The record is historically significant due to the time period in which it was produced. This significance is strengthened in the way the record stands as a testament to the way Ruyton recognises, celebrates and engages its student through programming and events. The record's significance is further enhanced by its strong provenance, having been produced by Ruyton Girls' School and donated to the Archives by a familial connection to a former notable student.A5 size pamphlet printed on cream coloured paper with navy blue ink. Two pages, folded in half.Reverse: RGS008/2024/0010ruyton girls' school, students, school, ruyton, victoria, high school, senior school, day school, letter, old ruytonians association, kew, speech night

Ruyton Girls' School has a long tradition of awarding prizes to students at annual "Speech Night" events. Speech Night commenced at Ruyton in 1878; the same year in which the School was founded by Mrs Charlotte Anderson. The Ruytonian December 1944, which recounts events from the last year to date, notes the 1943 Speech Night was the sixty-fifth iteration of the occasion. Previously, students were awarded customary books produced in England which were bound in navy blue leather, with the School's name and motto debossed in gold leaf. Speech Night at Ruyton is an extraordinary occasion. It is a time when the School gathers to celebrate both the year just lived and the contribution of Year 12 girls to the life of the School. It is a night of stirring student speeches, acknowledgement of student endeavour and excellence and awe-inspiring performances by School choirs and ensembles. Historic publications note Speech Night would typically "open with the distribution of prizes, followed by 13 musical items, a play, French Dialogue and four tableaux." This particular record is associated with the Speech Night held on 12 December 1947 at the Recreation Hall in Kew, Victoria.The record is historically significant due to the time period in which it was produced. This significance is strengthened in the way the record stands as a testament to the way Ruyton recognises, celebrates and engages its student through programming and events. The record's significance is further enhanced by its strong provenance, having been produced by Ruyton Girls' School and donated to the Archives by a familial connection to a former notable student.A5 size pamphlet printed on cream coloured paper with navy blue ink. Two pages, folded in half.Reverse: RGS008/2024/0011ruyton girls' school, students, school, ruyton, victoria, high school, senior school, day school, old ruytonians association, kew, speech night, programme, speech night programme, kew recreation hall

Ruyton Girls' School has a long tradition of awarding prizes to students at annual "Speech Night" events. Speech Night commenced at Ruyton in 1878; the same year in which the School was founded by Mrs Charlotte Anderson. The Ruytonian December 1944, which recounts events from the last year to date, notes the 1943 Speech Night was the sixty-fifth iteration of the occasion. Previously, students were awarded customary books produced in England which were bound in navy blue leather, with the School's name and motto debossed in gold leaf. Speech Night at Ruyton is an extraordinary occasion. It is a time when the School gathers to celebrate both the year just lived and the contribution of Year 12 girls to the life of the School. It is a night of stirring student speeches, acknowledgement of student endeavour and excellence and awe-inspiring performances by School choirs and ensembles. Historic publications note Speech Night would typically "open with the distribution of prizes, followed by 13 musical items, a play, French Dialogue and four tableaux." This particular record is associated with the Speech Night held on 10 December 1948 at the Recreation Hall in Kew, Victoria.The record is historically significant due to the time period in which it was produced. This significance is strengthened in the way the record stands as a testament to the way Ruyton recognises, celebrates and engages its student through programming and events. The record's significance is further enhanced by its strong provenance, having been produced by Ruyton Girls' School and donated to the Archives by a familial connection to a former notable student.A5 size pamphlet printed on cream coloured paper with navy blue ink. Two pages, folded in half.Reverse: RGS008/2024/0012ruyton girls' school, students, school, ruyton, victoria, high school, senior school, day school, letter, old ruytonians association, kew, speech night, programme, kew recreation hall

Ruyton Girls' School has a long tradition of awarding prizes to students at annual "Speech Night" events. Speech Night commenced at Ruyton in 1878; the same year in which the School was founded by Mrs Charlotte Anderson. The Ruytonian December 1944, which recounts events from the last year to date, notes the 1943 Speech Night was the sixty-fifth iteration of the occasion. Previously, students were awarded customary books produced in England which were bound in navy blue leather, with the School's name and motto debossed in gold leaf. Speech Night at Ruyton is an extraordinary occasion. It is a time when the School gathers to celebrate both the year just lived and the contribution of Year 12 girls to the life of the School. It is a night of stirring student speeches, acknowledgement of student endeavour and excellence and awe-inspiring performances by School choirs and ensembles. Historic publications note Speech Night would typically "open with the distribution of prizes, followed by 13 musical items, a play, French Dialogue and four tableaux." This particular record is associated with the Speech Night held on 9 December 1949 at the Recreation Hall in Kew, Victoria.The record is historically significant due to the time period in which it was produced. This significance is strengthened in the way the record stands as a testament to the way Ruyton recognises, celebrates and engages its student through programming and events. The record's significance is further enhanced by its strong provenance, having been produced by Ruyton Girls' School and donated to the Archives by a familial connection to a former notable student.A5 size pamphlet printed on cream coloured paper with navy blue ink. Two pages, folded in half.Reverse: RGS008/2024/0013 /ruyton girls' school, students, school, ruyton, victoria, high school, senior school, day school, letter, old ruytonians association, kew, speech night, programme

Ruyton Girls' School has a long tradition of awarding prizes to students at annual "Speech Night" events. Speech Night commenced at Ruyton in 1878; the same year in which the School was founded by Mrs Charlotte Anderson. The Ruytonian December 1944, which recounts events from the last year to date, notes the 1943 Speech Night was the sixty-fifth iteration of the occasion. Previously, students were awarded customary books produced in England which were bound in navy blue leather, with the School's name and motto debossed in gold leaf. Speech Night at Ruyton is an extraordinary occasion. It is a time when the School gathers to celebrate both the year just lived and the contribution of Year 12 girls to the life of the School. It is a night of stirring student speeches, acknowledgement of student endeavour and excellence and awe-inspiring performances by School choirs and ensembles. Historic publications note Speech Night would typically "open with the distribution of prizes, followed by 13 musical items, a play, French Dialogue and four tableaux." This particular record is associated with the Speech Night held on 18 December 1950 at the Recreation Hall in Kew, Victoria.The record has strong historic significance as it was written by a former notable student, Helen Gordon (maiden name Cole). Helen started at Little Ruyton in Prep in 1940 and finished Year 12 in 1952 as School Captain, Bromby Captain, Form Captain for Matric, Tennis Captain, Hockey Captain, Swimming Vice Captain, and an award for Best All-Round Girl. She also played baseball for Victoria. After finishing school, Helen went on to graduate from the University of Melbourne as a physiotherapist in 1956. Her first position at age 19 involved setting up clinics with the Victorian Health Department Poliomyelitis Rural division. Helen’s strong ties to Ruyton continued when she held the position of President of the Old Ruytonians’ Association from the start of 1966 to the end of 1967. In 2019, Helen received an Order of Australia Medal for service to community health as a physiotherapist. She was also the recipient of the 2022 Victorian Senior Achiever Award at Parliament House. Helen passed away in July 2023 at age 88. The record's significance is further enhanced by its strong provenance, having been produced by Ruyton Girls' School and donated to the Archives by a familial connection.A5 size pamphlet printed on cream coloured paper with navy blue ink. Two pages, folded in half.Reverse: RGS008/2024/0014 /ruyton girls' school, students, school, ruyton, victoria, high school, senior school, day school, letter, old ruytonians association, kew

Ruyton Girls' School has a long tradition of awarding prizes to students at annual "Speech Night" events. Speech Night commenced at Ruyton in 1878; the same year in which the School was founded by Mrs Charlotte Anderson. The Ruytonian December 1944, which recounts events from the last year to date, notes the 1943 Speech Night was the sixty-fifth iteration of the occasion. Previously, students were awarded customary books produced in England which were bound in navy blue leather, with the School's name and motto debossed in gold leaf. Speech Night at Ruyton is an extraordinary occasion. It is a time when the School gathers to celebrate both the year just lived and the contribution of Year 12 girls to the life of the School. It is a night of stirring student speeches, acknowledgement of student endeavour and excellence and awe-inspiring performances by School choirs and ensembles. Historic publications note Speech Night would typically "open with the distribution of prizes, followed by 13 musical items, a play, French Dialogue and four tableaux." This particular record is associated with the Speech Night held on 11 December 1951 at the Recreation Hall in Kew, Victoria.The record is historically significant due to the time period in which it was produced. This significance is strengthened in the way the record stands as a testament to the way Ruyton recognises, celebrates and engages its student through programming and events. The record's significance is further enhanced by its strong provenance, having been produced by Ruyton Girls' School and donated to the Archives by a familial connection to a former notable student.A5 size pamphlet printed on cream coloured paper with navy blue ink. Two pages, folded in half.Reverse: RGS008/2024/0015 /ruyton girls' school, students, school, ruyton, victoria, high school, senior school, day school, letter, old ruytonians association, kew, speech night, programme

Ruyton Girls' School has a long tradition of awarding prizes to students at annual "Speech Night" events. Speech Night commenced at Ruyton in 1878; the same year in which the School was founded by Mrs Charlotte Anderson. The Ruytonian December 1944, which recounts events from the last year to date, notes the 1943 Speech Night was the sixty-fifth iteration of the occasion. Previously, students were awarded customary books produced in England which were bound in navy blue leather, with the School's name and motto debossed in gold leaf. Speech Night at Ruyton is an extraordinary occasion. It is a time when the School gathers to celebrate both the year just lived and the contribution of Year 12 girls to the life of the School. It is a night of stirring student speeches, acknowledgement of student endeavour and excellence and awe-inspiring performances by School choirs and ensembles. Historic publications note Speech Night would typically "open with the distribution of prizes, followed by 13 musical items, a play, French Dialogue and four tableaux." This particular record is associated with the Speech Night held on 11 December 1952 at the Recreation Hall in Kew, Victoria.The record is historically significant due to the time period in which it was produced. This significance is strengthened in the way the record stands as a testament to the way Ruyton recognises, celebrates and engages its student through programming and events. The record's significance is further enhanced by its strong provenance, having been produced by Ruyton Girls' School and donated to the Archives by a familial connection to a former notable student.A5 size pamphlet printed on cream coloured paper with navy blue ink. Two pages, folded in half.Reverse: RGS008/2024/0016 /ruyton girls' school, students, school, ruyton, victoria, high school, senior school, day school, letter, old ruytonians association, kew, speech night, programme

Ruyton Girls' School has a long tradition of awarding prizes to students at annual "Speech Night" events. Speech Night commenced at Ruyton in 1878; the same year in which the School was founded by Mrs Charlotte Anderson. The Ruytonian December 1944, which recounts events from the last year to date, notes the 1943 Speech Night was the sixty-fifth iteration of the occasion. Previously, students were awarded customary books produced in England which were bound in navy blue leather, with the School's name and motto debossed in gold leaf. Speech Night at Ruyton is an extraordinary occasion. It is a time when the School gathers to celebrate both the year just lived and the contribution of Year 12 girls to the life of the School. It is a night of stirring student speeches, acknowledgement of student endeavour and excellence and awe-inspiring performances by School choirs and ensembles. Historic publications note Speech Night would typically "open with the distribution of prizes, followed by 13 musical items, a play, French Dialogue and four tableaux." This particular record is associated with the Speech Night held on 14 December 1953 at the Recreation Hall in Kew, Victoria.The record is historically significant due to the time period in which it was produced. This significance is strengthened in the way the record stands as a testament to the way Ruyton recognises, celebrates and engages its student through programming and events. The record's significance is further enhanced by its strong provenance, having been produced by Ruyton Girls' School and donated to the Archives by a familial connection to a former notable student.A5 size pamphlet printed on cream coloured paper with navy blue ink. Two pages, folded in half.Reverse: RGS008/2024/0017 /ruyton girls' school, students, school, ruyton, victoria, high school, senior school, day school, letter, old ruytonians association, kew, speech night, programme

The pamphlet documents the agenda for the Ruyton Girls' School athletics sports carnival hosted at Glenferrie Oval on Wednesday, 26 April 1950. The program outlines a series of activities to be undertaken by junior and senior school students (including day girls and boarders), including crossball, potato sack race, hockey dribbling, egg and spoon race, relays, baseball throwing, and obstacle courses. Each sport is divided into age brackets including under 14, under 16, and 16 and over. The pamphlet also acts as a scorecard, featuring columns for recording results, points scored, progress points and times. Ruyton Girls' School has an exceptional reputation in school sport. The School is a member school of Girls' Sport Victoria (GSV), a large sporting association involving 24 independent girls’ schools in Melbourne. Girls in the Senior School have the opportunity to compete in a range of sports over the four terms and at three major carnivals; Swimming and Diving, Cross Country and Track and Field. Ruyton also has a very successful Rowing program and participates in the Victorian Interschools Snowsports Championships.The record has strong historic significance as it gives insight into the House system at Ruyton Girls' School; in particular, how the House system is used in a sports context. In the early 1920s, Ruyton was settling into its new home at Selbourne Road, Kew. At the time, students were arranged by their form (or year level) for lessons and other school activities. A collection of eight emblems and mottoes for each form group was published in the Ruytonian December 1922, although the genesis of each were left unexplained. With enrolments continually growing, Principal Miss Hilda Daniell felt a new basis of organisation would benefit students, giving them a broader outlook and something bigger to work for. She took inspiration from tradition and implemented a House system. The House system was adopted at Ruyton in September 1924 to "provide a new kind of co-operation and competition among the girls, especially in Sport." There were four houses, three of which were named after early Principals: Anderson, Bromby and Lascelles. There was also the School House, initially for boarders only. Some time after the publication of the Ruytonian in April 1928, the School House was renamed Daniell House, and had opened up to day girls. The account published by the newly formed Daniell House in the Ruytonian December 1928 reads, "we are rather bashful in presenting this account of our doings, for we are conscious of our newness. Our house has now the honour of being known as Daniell House." Four of the original eight form emblems were adopted by the new Houses, while the others were discarded. According to former teacher and author of the centenary history of Ruyton, Ms Majorie Theobald, the House system "gave a new focus for all competitive sport, which had previously been organised on a rather inequitable basis." The colours chosen for the Houses were cherry red for Anderson, royal blue for Bromby, gold for Lascelles, and pale blue for School (later Daniell). New students starting at Ruyton from Prep onwards are allocated to one of the following Houses with consideration to family connections and balance of numbers. The record's significance is further enhanced by its strong provenance, having been produced by Ruyton Girls' School and donated to the Archives by a familial connection of a former notable student.Pamphlet printed on cream coloured paper with navy blue ink. Two pages, folded in half.Obverse: tenns allowed 2 flat 3 teas 1 relay / 1 noveltie / 3 every thing entered in. / move for heats / Lanes 5 - 2 / First Page: under 15 50 yds. / 2. / 3 under 15 75 yds. / 4 / 5 / 6. Junior Crossball. / 7 / 8 / Second Page: 9 / 10 under 15. / 11 / 12 / 13 / 14 under 15 / 15 / 16. / Reverse: 21 Diamond Throwing open / 22 / 23 under 15 / 24 / 25 / 26 / 27 / Diamond / 28 / 29 / 30 / 31 / 32 / Junior under 15 1st July 1 Junior relay (?) / under 15 / Two sprints and potato go for championships /ruyton girls' school, students, school, ruyton, victoria, high school, senior school, day school, letter, old ruytonians association, kew, sport, school sport, girls' sport victoria, house, anderson, lascelles, bromby, daniell, athletics, glenferrie

The Ruyton Reporter (formerly known as Ruyton Reports) captures the essential Ruyton Girls' School experience for the broader school community. It has been produced since 1986.The record has strong historic significance as it pertains to one of the oldest girls' school in Victoria, Australia. Ruyton was founded in 1878 in the Bulleen Road, Kew, home of newly widowed Mrs Charlotte Anderson (now High Street South). Thus, the record can be used as a reference example for research into Victorian school history. It also gives insight into the types of activities and events undertaken at Ruyton Girls' School during the period of its production. The record's significance is further enhanced by its exceptionally well-documented provenance, having remained the property of Ruyton Girls' School since its production.Colour publication printed on paper with staple binding. 16 pages.Front Page: 2 / 0 / the RUYTON / REPORTER / 0 / autumn / 2 / YOUNG / endeavours / Liz Franet aboard the Young Endeavour: Page 6 / R / RECTE ET FIDE LITER / STOP PRESS / Email: [email protected] / PRINT POST APPROVED / PP 341999 00026 / 12 Selbourne Rd / Class of 2001 Kew VIC 3101 / School Leaders Tel: 9819 2422 / A Power of Good / Fax: 9818 4790 / Old Ruytonians OnLine Website: www.ruyton.vic.edu.au / Email: [email protected] /ruyton girls' school, ruyton, school, students, newsletter, ruyton reports, ruyton news, kew, victoria, melbourne, girls school

The Ruyton Reporter (formerly known as Ruyton Reports) captures the essential Ruyton Girls' School experience for the broader school community. It has been produced since 1986.The record has strong historic significance as it pertains to one of the oldest girls' school in Victoria, Australia. Ruyton was founded in 1878 in the Bulleen Road, Kew, home of newly widowed Mrs Charlotte Anderson (now High Street South). Thus, the record can be used as a reference example for research into Victorian school history. It also gives insight into the types of activities and events undertaken at Ruyton Girls' School during the period of its production. The record's significance is further enhanced by its exceptionally well-documented provenance, having remained the property of Ruyton Girls' School since its production.Colour publication printed on paper with staple binding. 24 pages.Front Page: PRINT POST APPROVED PP 341999 000226 / R / RECTE ET FIDE LITER / THE RUYTON REPORTER / SUMMER 2002/2003 / out of this world / Charlotte Franich performing in / Tournament Of Minds - just part of / Enrichment at Ruyton: / pages 4+5 / STOP PRESS: 2003: Ruyton Celebrates 125 Years / Ruyton's Development Plan Meet the Deputy Principal / Artefacts Old Girls: Their Brilliant Careers / S4/23 /ruyton girls' school, ruyton, school, students, newsletter, ruyton reports, ruyton news, kew, victoria, melbourne, girls school

The Ruyton Reporter (formerly known as Ruyton Reports) captures the essential Ruyton Girls' School experience for the broader school community. It has been produced since 1986.The record has strong historic significance as it pertains to one of the oldest girls' school in Victoria, Australia. Ruyton was founded in 1878 in the Bulleen Road, Kew, home of newly widowed Mrs Charlotte Anderson (now High Street South). Thus, the record can be used as a reference example for research into Victorian school history. It also gives insight into the types of activities and events undertaken at Ruyton Girls' School during the period of its production. The record's significance is further enhanced by its exceptionally well-documented provenance, having remained the property of Ruyton Girls' School since its production.Colour publication printed on paper with staple binding. 20 pages.Front Page: PRINT POST APPROVED PP 341999 000226 / R / RECTE ET FIDE LITER / THE RUYTON REPORTER / AUTUMN 2003 / R / RECTE ET FIDE LITER / 125 / 1878 - 2003 / 21st Century / Ruyton / STOP PRESS: The Class of 2002 / Master classes for the good life / Getting intense about French / S4/24 /ruyton girls' school, ruyton, school, students, newsletter, ruyton reports, ruyton news, kew, victoria, melbourne, girls school

The Ruyton Reporter (formerly known as Ruyton Reports) captures the essential Ruyton Girls' School experience for the broader school community. It has been produced since 1986.The record has strong historic significance as it pertains to one of the oldest girls' school in Victoria, Australia. Ruyton was founded in 1878 in the Bulleen Road, Kew, home of newly widowed Mrs Charlotte Anderson (now High Street South). Thus, the record can be used as a reference example for research into Victorian school history. It also gives insight into the types of activities and events undertaken at Ruyton Girls' School during the period of its production. The record's significance is further enhanced by its exceptionally well-documented provenance, having remained the property of Ruyton Girls' School since its production.Colour publication printed on paper with staple binding. 24 pages.Front Page: 2/14/8 / PRINT POST APPROVED PP 341999 000226 / R / RECTE ET FIDE LITER / THE RUYTON REPORTER / SUMMER 2003 / outback and beyond / STOP PRESS: / a year to celebrate / Ruyton makes / sporting history / the ties that bind / authors at Ruyton / Year 10's Inaugural Dreamtime Culture Tour /ruyton girls' school, ruyton, school, students, newsletter, ruyton reports, ruyton news, kew, victoria, melbourne, girls school

The Ruyton Reporter (formerly known as Ruyton Reports) captures the essential Ruyton Girls' School experience for the broader school community. It has been produced since 1986.The record has strong historic significance as it pertains to one of the oldest girls' school in Victoria, Australia. Ruyton was founded in 1878 in the Bulleen Road, Kew, home of newly widowed Mrs Charlotte Anderson (now High Street South). Thus, the record can be used as a reference example for research into Victorian school history. It also gives insight into the types of activities and events undertaken at Ruyton Girls' School during the period of its production. The record's significance is further enhanced by its exceptionally well-documented provenance, having remained the property of Ruyton Girls' School since its production.Colour publication printed on paper with staple binding. 20 pages.Front Page: PRINT POST APPROVED PP 341999 000226 / R / RECTE ET FIDE LITER / THE RUYTON REPORTER / AUTUMN 2004 / We've Made Plans / STOP PRESS: VCE 2003 a class act / spotlight on drama / musicians in the swing / our brilliant old girls /ruyton girls' school, ruyton, school, students, newsletter, ruyton reports, ruyton news, kew, victoria, melbourne, girls school

The Ruyton Reporter (formerly known as Ruyton Reports) captures the essential Ruyton Girls' School experience for the broader school community. It has been produced since 1986.The record has strong historic significance as it pertains to one of the oldest girls' school in Victoria, Australia. Ruyton was founded in 1878 in the Bulleen Road, Kew, home of newly widowed Mrs Charlotte Anderson (now High Street South). Thus, the record can be used as a reference example for research into Victorian school history. It also gives insight into the types of activities and events undertaken at Ruyton Girls' School during the period of its production. The record's significance is further enhanced by its exceptionally well-documented provenance, having remained the property of Ruyton Girls' School since its production.Colour publication printed on paper with staple binding. 24 pages.Front Page: PRINT POST APPROVED PP 341999 000226 / R / RECTE ET FIDE LITER / THE RUYTON REPORTER / SUMMER 2004/05 / catch us if you can / Ruyton's Cross Country team which for the second year in a row won / the Division 1 Champion's title in the Girls Sport Victoria Cross / Country. The same team won the State title. See p.2 for more details. / L - R Sarah Gordon, Sarah Donelly, Lizzie Davenport, / Georgie Smibert, Natasha Anderson, Sarah Bowden, Tabitha Robb / In Front Fiona Nash, Eliza Sweeney / CONGRATULATIONS / to our literary award winners / For three consecutive years, Ruyton students have taken out First Prizes in both of the prose sections of the / Boroondara Literary Awards. This year is no exception with Alice Bewley (Year 9) and Lucy Eldred (Year 11) / whose entries in the Junior and Senior Prose sections respectively earned them First Prize. / Lily Poulier (Year 7), was awarded Second Prize in the Junior Prose and Lucinda Green (Year 11) Third Prize in the / Senior Prose. Prize winning entries will be featured in the next edition of Ruyton Reporter. / STOP PRESS: the Ruyton Family speaks / mastering Queen Bees / the Ruyton Foundation / the divine Miss Wills /ruyton girls' school, ruyton, school, students, newsletter, ruyton reports, ruyton news, kew, victoria, melbourne, girls school

Depicted are two formal school portraits of Helen Gordon (Cole) against a flat background. The first image depicts her from the waist up. She is dressed in the official Ruyton uniform, including a beret, light coloured collared shirt with a tie, and wool blazer embroidered on the pocket with Ruyton Girls' School's crest and Helen's student leadership positions. She is looking upwards and away from the camera to her right-hand side, and is smiling softly with teeth. The second photo is a more close-up image of Helen. She is still dressed in the same Ruyton uniform, although her blazer pocket embroidery is not visible. In this image, she is looking straight and away from the camera to her left-hand side, and has a closed smile. In both photographs, Helen's hair is short and sits just above her shoulders with a slight wave. The photographs are excellent examples of the Ruyton uniform from the time period in which they were taken. The official school uniform has naturally experienced different iterations since the School's founding in 1878. The most recent changes to the Ruyton uniform were made at the end of 2023, which include a move from brown to black school shoes, and a transition from pale yellow collared shirts to white.The record has strong historic significance as it depicts a former notable student, Helen Gordon (maiden name Cole). Helen started at Little Ruyton in Prep 1940 and finished Year 12 in 1952 as School Captain, Bromby Captain, Form Captain for Matric, Tennis Captain, Hockey Captain, Swimming Vice Captain, and an award for Best All-Round Girl. She also played baseball for Victoria. After finishing school, Helen went on to graduate from the University of Melbourne as a physiotherapist in 1956. Her first position at age 19 involved setting up clinics with the Victorian Health Department Poliomyelitis Rural division. Helen’s strong ties to Ruyton continued when she held the position of President of the Old Ruytonians’ Association from the start of 1966 to the end of 1967. In 2019, Helen received an Order of Australia Medal for service to community health as a physiotherapist. She was also the recipient of the 2022 Victorian Senior Achiever Award at Parliament House. Helen passed away in July 2023 at age 88. The record's significance is further enhanced by its strong provenance, having been produced by Ruyton Girls' School and donated to the Archives by a familial connection.Two black and white rectangular photographs printed on matte photographic paper.Reverse: RGS011/1952/0002.1 / Reverse: RGS011/1952/0002.2 /ruyton girls' school, kew, victoria, tennis, sport, women's sport, students, school, 1950s, uniform

Depicted are 14 students comprising the the 1952 Ruyton Girls' School hockey team. The photograph is an official school portrait taken outdoors on a patch of grass with a leafy bush visible in the background. The students are all dressed in light coloured shorts with a collared, buttoned blouse, wool blazers, white socks and white sneakers. Six girls are kneeling in the front row, and eight are standing up in the back row. All of the students are holding their own hockey stick. The idea of field hockey for female players was brought to Victoria by two sisters, Lillian and Margaret Irving, who had first seen girls playing it during their travels in England in 1902. By 1903, the Irving sisters were joint headmistresses of Lauriston, a school they had founded two years earlier. Both had deep connections to Ruyton Girls' School through their time as teachers at the older school during the 1880s-1890s. For Lilian Irving, this had included seven years as Ruyton's co-Principal with Miss Eliza Bromby from 1888-1895. With these links it was only natural that Ruyton students would join Lauriston to try out the new game. On a vacant block on the corner of Mercer and Malvern Roads, students from Ruyton and Lauriston Girls' Schools had assembled to play Victoria’s first ever inter-school hockey match for girls. Some students from Melbourne Girls' Grammar School came along to watch the spectacle and assess the new game's potential. Hockey quickly caught on, and friendly games were soon being played amongst a number of Melbourne's girls' schools. An Association was formed in 1905, and the rules formalised. These included arrangements around the competition fixture and the length of games (35 minutes for each half). In celebration of their joint role in bringing field hockey to Victorian school girls, Ruyton and Lauriston have met for friendly re-enactment matches in 2003 and 2018. The photograph also illustrates the shift in hockey uniform and apparatus. In the early 1920s, Ruyton established instructions for playing attire: "skirts must be eight inches off the ground. No white petticoats...", and importantly, least any team get an unfair advantage, "hard-rimmed hats and hatpins must not be worn during play." Ruyton appears to have taken the latter instruction to heart, and adopted the soft tam o’shanter hat as seen in surviving photographs of early teams. The tam o’shanter may have been removed for play, but the blouse and long skirt had to be put up with. According to Lilian Irving they had "a horrid habit of parting company", and she was delighted to see the transition to a more comfortable tunic in later years. Another change she observed was the hockey stick itself, which originally were all of "uniform thickness from handle to head, about the thickness of a stout walking stick" and so very different from the hockey sticks that are used today.The record has strong historic significance as it depicts a former notable student, Helen Gordon (maiden name Cole), pictured third from the right in the front row. Helen started at Little Ruyton in Prep 1940 and finished Year 12 in 1952 as School Captain, Bromby Captain, Form Captain for Matric, Tennis Captain, Hockey Captain, Swimming Vice Captain, and an award for Best All-Round Girl. She also played baseball for Victoria. After finishing school, Helen went on to graduate from the University of Melbourne as a physiotherapist in 1956. Her first position at age 19 involved setting up clinics with the Victorian Health Department Poliomyelitis Rural division. Helen’s strong ties to Ruyton continued when she held the position of President of the Old Ruytonians’ Association from the start of 1966 to the end of 1967. In 2019, Helen received an Order of Australia Medal for service to community health as a physiotherapist. She was also the recipient of the 2022 Victorian Senior Achiever Award at Parliament House. Helen passed away in July 2023 at age 88. The record's significance is further enhanced by its strong provenance, having been produced by Ruyton Girls' School and donated to the Archives by a familial connection.Black and white rectangular photographs printed on matte photographic paper.Reverse: gton / Margaret Hanesho (?) / Helen Gordon / 1952 / Mary Macpherson-Smith /ruyton girls' school, kew, victoria, tennis, sport, women's sport, students, school, 1950s, uniform, lauriston, hockey, field hockey, hockey stick

Depicted are 13 students comprising the the 1950 Ruyton Girls' School hockey team. The photograph is an official school portrait taken outdoors on a patch of grass with a leafy bush visible in the background. The students are all dressed in light coloured shorts with a collared, buttoned blouse, wool blazers, white socks and white sneakers. Five girls are kneeling in the front row, and seven are standing up in the back row. All of the students are holding their own hockey stick. The idea of field hockey for female players was brought to Victoria by two sisters, Lillian and Margaret Irving, who had first seen girls playing it during their travels in England in 1902. By 1903, the Irving sisters were joint headmistresses of Lauriston, a school they had founded two years earlier. Both had deep connections to Ruyton Girls' School through their time as teachers at the older school during the 1880s-1890s. For Lilian Irving, this had included seven years as Ruyton's co-Principal with Miss Eliza Bromby from 1888-1895. With these links it was only natural that Ruyton students would join Lauriston to try out the new game. On a vacant block on the corner of Mercer and Malvern Roads, students from Ruyton and Lauriston Girls' Schools had assembled to play Victoria’s first ever inter-school hockey match for girls. Some students from Melbourne Girls' Grammar School came along to watch the spectacle and assess the new game's potential. Hockey quickly caught on, and friendly games were soon being played amongst a number of Melbourne's girls' schools. An Association was formed in 1905, and the rules formalised. These included arrangements around the competition fixture and the length of games (35 minutes for each half). In celebration of their joint role in bringing field hockey to Victorian school girls, Ruyton and Lauriston have met for friendly re-enactment matches in 2003 and 2018. The photograph also illustrates the shift in hockey uniform and apparatus. In the early 1920s, Ruyton established instructions for playing attire: "skirts must be eight inches off the ground. No white petticoats...", and importantly, least any team get an unfair advantage, "hard-rimmed hats and hatpins must not be worn during play." Ruyton appears to have taken the latter instruction to heart, and adopted the soft tam o’shanter hat as seen in surviving photographs of early teams. The tam o’shanter may have been removed for play, but the blouse and long skirt had to be put up with. According to Lilian Irving they had "a horrid habit of parting company", and she was delighted to see the transition to a more comfortable tunic in later years. Another change she observed was the hockey stick itself, which originally were all of "uniform thickness from handle to head, about the thickness of a stout walking stick" and so very different from the hockey sticks that are used today.The record has strong historic significance as it depicts a former notable student, Helen Gordon (maiden name Cole), pictured third from the right in the front row. Helen started at Little Ruyton in Prep 1940 and finished Year 12 in 1952 as School Captain, Bromby Captain, Form Captain for Matric, Tennis Captain, Hockey Captain, Swimming Vice Captain, and an award for Best All-Round Girl. She also played baseball for Victoria. After finishing school, Helen went on to graduate from the University of Melbourne as a physiotherapist in 1956. Her first position at age 19 involved setting up clinics with the Victorian Health Department Poliomyelitis Rural division. Helen’s strong ties to Ruyton continued when she held the position of President of the Old Ruytonians’ Association from the start of 1966 to the end of 1967. In 2019, Helen received an Order of Australia Medal for service to community health as a physiotherapist. She was also the recipient of the 2022 Victorian Senior Achiever Award at Parliament House. Helen passed away in July 2023 at age 88. The record's significance is further enhanced by its strong provenance, having been produced by Ruyton Girls' School and donated to the Archives by a familial connection.Black and white rectangular photographs printed on matte photographic paper.Reverse: Ruyton Hockey Team 1950. / 17 Cole / From left to right standing. / Helen Cole. / Left to right kneeling. /ruyton girls' school, kew, victoria, tennis, sport, women's sport, students, school, 1950s, uniform, lauriston, hockey, field hockey, hockey stick