105 Years of Pymble
To mark 105 years since the foundation of Pymble Ladies’ College, College Archivist Enid O’Carroll will share a piece of Pymble history in the Newsletter each week – 105 Objects in 105 Years.
1982 – Computer program
In keeping with educational trends at the time, a computer program was introduced as an aid to learning in the early 1980s. It originally began with the Junior School, “as it was the most logical place to start for girls to take this newly learnt skill with them through their schooling life”. This sphere was later expanded and extended through the school, and to staff, parents, and administration.
A Computer Club was formed in this era and the Pymbulletin made regular mention of computers. The Family Group offered help in mastering this new technology by arranging a presentation by Mr Colin Woodley from the Association of Independent Schools, on the role of the computer in education. And following interest by parents on the subject, courses were arranged. Aimed at parents who do not have a computer in the home, a unheard of concept to us today.
Currently the school has a comprehensive IT department that look after all our technological needs. In addition, there are many extra-curricular programs such as Coding, Robotics and other STEM-endorsed programs that have also changed with the times to better equip girls with skills for the future.
Researched from Margaret Coleman’s This is Pymble College and written by Archive volunteer, Angelica Tan (Year 11). Excerpts from Pymbulletin June 1981 and July 1984.
1983 – Jacaranda Service
The Jacaranda tree was planted in 1947, commemorating the visit of Princess Alice, Duchess of Gloucester. Since this time it has been blossoming in front of the Colonnade building and bringing colour and wildlife to the College.
On 28 November 1983, the first Jacaranda Service was held, under the leadership of Principal Jeanette Buckham. Jacaranda Day was an initiative by Mrs R Ram, a Science teacher at the College, who wanted to celebrate the existence of beauty in the changing world.
The Jacaranda service became part of the school calendar and each year Mrs Ram spoke on the meanings and symbols that could be drawn from our jacaranda. Since Mrs Ram’s retirement in 1992 other speakers have shared messages based on the symbolism of the jacaranda tree.
Each year in November the whole school assembles on Gloucester Lawn around the purple blossomed Jacaranda tree for a service of thanksgiving and to present donations to various charities. It highlights the gift and importance of giving, and the ability to give to others.
Researched and written by Archive volunteer, Angelica Tan (Year 11). Pictured are images from Jacaranda days in the past and Mrs Ram with students.
1984 – Jeanette Buckham Centre for Physical Education
The gymnasium was named for Miss Buckham who served as Principal between 1967 and 1989. The building was officially opened in December of 1983, so 1984 saw it in full use. Sited adjacent to the swimming pool, which as part of this development, was extended from 33m to 50m and diving facilities added.
The Physical Education Centre was described by a Council member:
It is not only spectacular, it is visually and physically most satisfying in all respects. It really is a super building – with cross-ventilation in all directions.
The old gymnasium, located on the basement level of the Colonnade was converted into classrooms and the original locker room into an office for the Mistress of Middle School.
A highlight of the Physical Education Centre was hosting the USA team gymnastics team as a training venue prior to the Sydney Olympic games in 2000. Although the pool has been replaced, the space continues to serve as a gymnasium, hall, and sporting venue.
The Heritage Archive textile collection includes a t-shirt given to the College by the 2000 USA Gymnastics team. Please enjoy these images of the PE Centre and the pool during construction and in use.
