Reflections of Havergal: 1994-2019

S C H O O L L I F E

Daily Life “We are involved in a life that passes understanding, and our highest business is our daily life.” —JOHN CAGE

The simplicity of the application process in the early years of the Havergal Ladies College may well surprise. The Havergal Ladies College Ltd. application form was standard around the time of the First World War.

Particulars of Application Dr. Catherine Steele 1928 Archives, 1917

A hundred years later, however, the application process was considerably more complex. In an article for the 1995 Chronicle , Cathy Wilson, Head of Middle School and Director of Admissions, outlined the philosophy that had come to guide the selection process. “[O] ur main goal … is to set young women on a positive track for lifelong learning and prepare them for entry to university or further study.” Given that goal, Havergal must be confident that an applicant would thrive in the rigorous academic program. “Our second goal,” Ms. Wilson added, “is to attract a diverse student body and bring together students with varying backgrounds, interests, talents and personalities to enrich the educational experience.” She went on to note, with excitement and pride, that  Havergal is becoming more attuned to markets not previously open to Canada. This year, we are fortunate to have two girls from Russia with us. They join girls from the Caribbean, Mexico, Hong Kong and Africa. Of the 80 boarders, about half are from outside of Canada. 

A sketch of the first day of school, 1920.

The Havergal Viewbook vibrantly evokes aspects of daily life at the school. However, the adventure that is Havergal begins long before new students don the full uniform in September. It starts with an application process designed to help a prospective student and her family decide whether the school is the best choice for her. Will she flourish at Havergal? 

94  HAVERGAL COLLEGE