Collegiate Junior School for Girls marked a significant moment in its history on Wednesday, 14 January, with the unveiling of an official Blue Heritage Plaque on the first day of the new school year.
The ceremony was led by Principal Shelley van Rooyen and was attended by representatives of the Historical Society, including Professor Charles Wait (President), Graham Taylor (Chairman), Coleen O’Brien (Secretary) and Lynn Middendorp (Vice-Chairperson).
Also present were Collegiate Girls’ High School Principal Louise Erasmus, members of the School Governing Body, Collegiate staff and learners from Grades 4 to 7.
The Blue Heritage Plaque recognises Collegiate’s rich and enduring legacy as one of the oldest girls’ schools in South Africa.
Founded in 1874 as the Port Elizabeth Collegiate School for Girls, Collegiate was established by a group of visionary women who believed strongly in providing girls with access to quality education at a time when such opportunities were limited.
In her address, Van Rooyen reflected on the school’s journey from its modest beginnings in Western Road to its current home on Parsons Hill, highlighting key milestones such as the separation into Junior and High Schools and the celebration of Collegiate’s 150th anniversary in 2024.
She stated that the plaque serves as a reminder that Collegiate’s history is something to be cherished, protected and lived out daily by its learners and staff, guided by the school’s motto, Facta Non Verba – Deeds, Not Words.
The unveiling was made especially meaningful as the plaque was revealed by Grade 4 learner, Jocelyn Wait, together with her grandfather, Professor Charles Wait.
The ceremony concluded with the singing of the Collegiate school song.
The unveiling of the Blue Heritage Plaque stands as a lasting symbol of Collegiate’s proud past, vibrant present, and strong commitment to future generations of girls.
