The School Crest
Statement Of Commitment
Founding Of GHS
Down Memory Lane
The red cross of St George represents bravery and the white field, purity and truth. The scarlet aloe is a proud symbol of the Border region. The school motto; Veritas et Virtus (Truth and Courage) has inspired generations of girls since the late 19th Century. The magnificent teak carving depicted on the cover of the prospectus graces the entrance to the school hall, which is fittingly named St George’s Hall. It shows the courageous St George standing on the dying dragon, while the maiden Truth stands beside him.
At Queenstown Girls’High School we strive to help our learners acquire the skills to face life’schallenges so that they may develop their unique potentialand gain the confidence to take their places as leaders and responsible membersof society. We work to achieve this by emphasising the individual worth of each person, sound morals and virtuous principles. We are committed to providing a caring and challenging environment, with particular emphasis on critical thinking and active involvement in the learning process. We stronglypromote the pursuit of excellence in all endeavours.
Vision
To be a principle-centered school of excellence where teachers, learners, employees and interested stakeholders teach, learn, work and interact in a spirit of growth and harmony.
Mission
IN STRIVING TOWARDS OUR VISION WE:
- Encourage all at our school to develop their UNIQUE POTENTIAL.
- Always aim to equip our learners with KNOWLEDGE, ACADEMIC SKILLS and a POSITIVE ATTITUDE.
- Offer a wide variety of CULTURAL ACTIVITIES to nurture individual talent.
- Provide opportunities for SERVICE within the school and the broader community.
- Offer a wide range of SPORTING ACTIVITIES which promotes PHYSICAL HEALTH and WELLBEING and also provide opportunities to interact with learners from other schools.
- Strive to develop a balance between SELF-WORTH and HUMILITY.
- Strive to equip our learners with LIFE SKILLS necessary to face challenges both at school and in the future.
- Strongly promote RESPECT FOR AUTHORITY, THE RULE OF LAW and the ideal of GOOD CITIZENSHIP in order to contribute to our Country’s GROWTH and PROSPERITY.
- Respect and promote HUMAN DIGNITY and TOLERANCE in our DIVERSE DEMOCRATIC SOCIETY.
The arrival of two new pupils would not normally change the course of history. That is exactly what happened when Dr Bisset Berry arrived at the local Government school in Queenstown and demanded to enroll his daughter, Gwendoline Berry and her friend, Wilhelmina Browne.
“But this is a boys’ school. How can I admit them?” asked the highly respected principal, Mr Frederick Beswick. “I wish my girls to get the very best education possible,” said Dr Berry.
The girls were admitted. The date was August 2, 1875 – a date now celebrated as the anniversary of the founding of Queenstown Girls’ High School. In 1898 the girls and boys were separated. Miss Agnes Burt was appointed headmistress of the new girls’ school. She gave the school its motto; Veritas et Virtus. Zealous and strict, she won the admiration and affection of her girls. She even made a name for herself as a skillful centre striker. (When hockey was introduced in 1900). Her staff regarded her with awe as she appeared very stern.
There was great excitement when the school moved to its beautiful new premises in Frost Street in 1918. The school building has subsequently been extended, but the original character has been retained and the building is now surrounded by two girls’ hostels and spacious sports facilities which make up a convenient and beautiful campus.
In January 1991, formerly “Whites Only” schools were given the choice of enrolling pupils from other racial groups. Girls’ High seized the opportunity and became one of the pioneers of multiracial schooling. Today the learners of Queenstown Girls’ High School still benefit from “the very best education possible“. The high ideals spoused by the school are expressed in its Statement of Commitment.
Each year, Queenstown Girls’ High School Old Girls from far and wide travel to Queenstown to renew school friendships during the weekend celebrating the school’s “birthday”.
The enduring popularity of the annual “25 and 50 years out of school” reunion celebrations is a testimony to the high regard former pupils have for their old school and to the fond memories that they treasure.
The Old Queenstonia Association, with branches throughout South Africa is an association of ex-Girls’ High girls who are committed to keeping in touch with one another and to promoting the interests of their Alma Mater.
All former Girls’ High girls and teachers are welcome to join the Old Queenstonia Association. Anybody wanting more information about the association is invited to contact the school.
