Reflections of Havergal: 1994-2019

O V E R V I E W

Introduction “A tree against the sky possesses the same interest, the same character, the same expression as the figure of a human.” —GEORGES ROUALT

There can be little doubt that Miss Knox would be proud of the growth of the Havergal tree she nurtured with such dedication. Certainly, her “school in a tree” provided a precious image for the community—and inspired one student to write “What the Apple Tree Saw” for the 1919 Ludemus .

“What the Apple Tree Saw” Ludemus, 1919

The symbol was also the focus of a compelling talk Brenda Robson, former Dean of Students and current staff member, gave in Prayers in the late 1990s: Havergal is like a tree. It’s a good old tree which has been growing for more than a hundred years and has good solid roots … What we see above is a vibrant, healthy, often noisy, usually happy school. There are two roots from which this school grows. The first is the root of education …The second is the root of religion. From the roots grows the tree. Our tree is a tall, spreading one with many branches representing a great diversity of people and activities. The branches are also representative of the traditions in the school. Some are old, like the Grandchildren’s Party and Graduation. Some are relatively new, like House Shout. Some are most dependent on the education root, such as the debating club. Others are dependent on the religion root, for example, Carol Service and the Candlelight Ceremony.

Chronicle , 2016 cover.

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