From the Archives

From the Archives – Meliora Sequamur! 

As we celebrate our annual Meliora Sequamur Awards, it is worth reflecting on the origins of this important Northcote High School tradition. 

The Meliora Sequamur Awards were introduced in 2006, during the principalship of Gail Davidson, to recognise and encourage positive achievement among students. Our 2008 Ripples magazine records the third year of the awards, highlighting eight students receiving the awards from Years 9 and 10. 

At that time, the awards were presented in two categories: Contribution and Commitment and Positive Change. Four students were recognised in each category, with two recipients from Year 9 and two from Year 10. 

These original categories provide an interesting insight into the purpose of the awards. They celebrated students who made a positive contribution to the school community, demonstrated commitment and showed a willingness to grow and improve. 

The awards also reflect our school's longstanding motto, Meliora Sequamur. Originally translated as "Let Us Follow Better Things", the motto is now expressed as "Let Us Follow the Better Path". While the wording has evolved, the underlying message remains one of striving for improvement, making positive choices and contributing to the school community. 

The awards continue a much longer tradition of recognising student achievement at Northcote High School, from the annual Speech Nights of earlier decades to the celebrations we hold today. 

As we mark our Centenary, the Meliora Sequamur Awards remain an important expression of our school's history, values and commitment to recognising the many ways students contribute to the life of Northcote High School. 

A big congratulations to the students that have received awards over the last 20 years!