20 YEARS OF INSPIRING EDUCATION AND CHERISHED MEMORIES

The school community gathered to commemorate Georgiana Molloy Anglican School’s 20th Foundation Day Anniversary on Friday, 17 March 2023. This special occasion marked two decades since the inception of GMAS when its doors opened in 2003 to 128 foundation students. Today, the School is ‘home’ for over 1,200 students and 136 staff across four sub-schools.

The MAC (Multipurpose Activity Centre) was abuzz with emotions as students, staff, and special guests came together to reflect on the school’s twenty-year journey.

“This year, we plan to celebrate the 20th year anniversary by respecting and recalling the past, but also look to the exciting future that GMAS has,” said Ms Meg Watson, Interim Principal.

“We look to the coming years as a time of renewal and revitalisation, allowing Georgiana Molloy Anglican School to engage with our rapidly changing world with a positive, student-centred approach.”

The Foundation Day Anniversary Eucharist, presided over by Reverend Justine Richmond, was a moment to honour the incredible individuals who laid the foundation, and to celebrate the unwavering support of those who have been with GMAS since the very beginning.

“I was so thrilled to be a part of the 20th celebrations. Our two oldest children were two of the 128 students who started at GMAS on 4 February 2003,” The Reverend Justine Richmond said.

“There was such an incredible energy and excitement about the school opening, not only at GMAS but around town – people were constantly asking us what we all thought of the school.

“Ross Switzer, our first principal used to always say that the school aimed to exceed our expectations. I would have to say that it constantly did, the staff worked incredibly hard, and enrolments grew so much in that first year as a result.”

“All our three children are now GMAS alumni. I have been on staff for 17 years, teaching Italian for ten years, then moving into Chaplaincy and Religious Studies in 2016.

“I am so glad we chose GMAS for our children’s education – it became more than just a school for us. Being part of the GMAS community for twenty years has been a joy and a privilege.”

After the Eucharist, the celebrations continued in full swing. Students indulged in a delicious chocolate birthday cake. They participated in various activities across the school grounds, including beach volleyball, cricket, Indigenous art and mindful colouring.

Mrs Kath Campbell, Acting Deputy Principal, has been an integral staff member at GMAS for 17 Years.

“Georgiana Molloy Anglican School’s 20th anniversary was a momentous occasion, commemorating two decades of academic excellence, holistic development, and a nurturing community,” said Mrs Campbell.

“From its humble beginnings to its current position as a leading educational institution in the Southwest, our School has continuously evolved and adapted, ensuring our students receive the best possible education, both inside and outside the classroom.”

As the School day drew to a close, the Primary School oval transformed into a vibrant celebration as the music pumped and freshly cooked doughnuts filled the air. Some offered activities included rock climbing, laser tag, face painting, pony rides, trampolining, and train rides. There were also food trucks, fairy floss and popcorn for students, families and staff to enjoy.

“Reflections from the past were shared, and new memories were made for the future. A beautiful Eucharist was held followed by various engaging activities during the day, culminating with a joyous Community Fair and Picnic that ran into the evening. It was a truly memorable day for all.”

Ms Meg Watson, Interim Principal

“It was with great excitement that the Georgiana Molloy Anglican School community celebrated its 20th year,” concluded Ms Meg Watson.