Family Handbook 2023-24

OUR COMMUNITY

Ellen Knox (EK) Est. 1929

During the summer of 1804, Ellen Knox—a young scholar who had recently earned her Cambridge University teaching diploma—was approached to become Havergal’s First Principal. She accepted with great enthusiasm and is remembered for posing one of the school’s resounding questions: What will you do? Ellen Knox was known for the special relationships she formed with young Boarders and for her love and respect for all Havergal students. She founded the Grandchildren’s Party, as she truly considered all children of Old Girls her “grandchildren.” Marian Wood (MW) Est. 1929 Marian Wood served as Havergal’s second Principal, arriving from England in 1898 and intending to stay for a year. She stayed for 39 years, succeeding Ellen Knox as Principal in 1924. She taught art and sculpture and is remembered for her slide shows of the works of the Old Masters and her leadership in developing good conversational skills at the dining table. She instituted the House system, the predecessor to Celebration Saturday, and the first candlelight ceremony for graduates. A shy person, some saw her as stern, while others saw her as warm and wise—the best teacher they ever had.

Mascot: Frog Characteristic: Friendship Colours: Green & White Motto: May God lighten our hearts. Hymn: Praise, My Soul

Mascot: Bumble Bee Characteristic: Love

Colours: Yellow & Black Motto: Truth conquers all. Hymn: Morning Has Broken

Kate Leonard (KL) Est. 1936

A new House was formed in 1936 and named in honour of Kate Leonard, who had passed away that year. Mrs. Leonard had taken a personal interest in the school, donating generously to Havergal College during her lifetime. Most notably, Mrs. Leonard presented the school with a generous gift in 1936, which enabled Havergal to make a financial turnaround at the end of the Depression. All debts were paid and the school’s facilities were expanded to include more classrooms, a domestic science wing, chemistry and physics labs and common rooms.

Mascot: Elephant Characteristic: Faith Colours: Light Blue & White Motto: We grow through knowledge and experience. Hymn: Dear God, Compassionate and Kind

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