From the Archives

Honouring Our Foundations: Celebrating the Establishment of the Junior School

This August, Kinross Wolaroi School proudly celebrates a special anniversary - 66 years since the official opening of the Junior School on 21 August 1958. 

While younger students had long been part of life at both Wolaroi College and the Presbyterian Ladies' College, it was this moment in 1958 that marked the creation of a purpose-built home for early learners - an important step in shaping the educational experience we offer today.

Fittingly, the original Junior School building still stands at the heart of our campus. Today, it is known as Trathen House, home to our Year 7 boarders and located beside the Health Centre. Its legacy, however, stretches back to a day of vision and community spirit.

Where It All Began

On a blustery day - 2 December 1957 - the foundation stone for the new Junior School was unveiled at Wolaroi College. The moment was made official by Rev. B.R. Wyllie, President of the NSW Methodist Conference and Master of Wesley College, who drew back the Australian flag to reveal the stone and offered his best wishes to the school community as it embarked on a new chapter.

From that point, construction moved quickly, and by Thursday 21 August 1958, the new Junior School was ready to welcome its first students. Mr W.R. Conn of Wellington, a dedicated Council member and generous supporter, turned the key in the door and officially opened the building in front of parents and friends. 

The Junior School began with just 14 students, but its opening was nothing short of transformative. It also prompted a restructuring of the Senior School into distinct Upper and Middle School divisions - a sign of how seriously the school took its commitment to providing the best possible education for all ages.

Words of Vision and Growth

At the time, Rev. D.A. Trathen, Headmaster of Wolaroi, addressed the crowd with pride and gratitude. He reflected on the school's ongoing growth and the £18,000 investment made in the new facility, honouring the many individuals who made it possible.

The impact of this milestone was profound. The Junior School gave Wolaroi the ability to expand enrolments, enrich learning opportunities, and begin a new chapter in its history - one marked by innovation, inclusivity, and a lifelong love of learning.

A Lasting Legacy

Today, that spirit continues to define the Junior School at Kinross Wolaroi. As we celebrate this significant anniversary, Mrs Virginia Milliken, Executive Director and Head of Junior School, reflects on the journey and its meaning for today’s students:

“Unlocking the doors to a new chapter in education reflects the deep-rooted partnership between the school and its community. From the very beginning, the Junior School has been shaped by the generosity, vision, and involvement of those who believe in the power of education. That legacy of community spirit remains central to who we are today.

“The establishment of the Junior School was more than a milestone—it was a defining moment that laid the foundation for decades of educational excellence. It reflected a bold and forward-thinking vision, with the 1957 investment in new facilities not merely addressing immediate growth but actively shaping a future-focused learning environment. As we honour our past, we celebrate a journey where tradition and transformation walk hand in hand—ensuring that today’s students thrive in spaces designed for curiosity, creativity, and connection.”

Celebrating 66 Years of Junior School Spirit

From fourteen students to a thriving community of curious and confident learners, the Junior School’s journey is a story of vision, community, and lasting impact. As we celebrate the events of 21 August 1958, we look forward with pride—grateful for the foundations laid by those who came before, and inspired to keep building a future where every young learner can thrive.