2025 CALENDAR
JANUARY 2025 - TERM 1
FEBRUARY 2025 - TERM 1
MARCH 2025 - TERM 1
APRIL 2025 - TERM 2
MAY 2025 - TERM 2
JUNE 2025 - TERM 2
JULY 2025 - TERM 2
AUGUST 2025 - TERM 3
SEPTEMBER 2025 - TERM 3
OCTOBER 2025 - TERM 4
NOVEMBER 2025 - TERM 4
DECEMBER 2025 - TERM 4
On the 4 February 1890, New College was founded by Rev. Arthur Robert Stephenson in Box Hill, Victoria. The area was relatively undeveloped at the time, and the local community was eager to support educational ventures. Stephenson established the school as a boys’ day and boarding school, seeing the potential in Box Hill’s semi-rural setting.
Despite Stephenson’s enthusiasm, the early years were challenging. There were few students initially, but gradually the school grew, attracting both day students and boarders. The school offered a broad curriculum that included sports, arts, and academics, emphasizing the holistic development of each student. In 1902, under Headmaster Donald Murray Coghill, the School was renamed Box Hill Grammar School and began to establish itself more firmly within the community. The curriculum was expanded, and a new school crest and motto were introduced.
Amongst several leadership changes, each contributed to the development of the School despite financial and administrative challenges. The School’s reputation grew, particularly for its sporting achievements and the strong community atmosphere fostered among boarders and day students alike. In 1928, the Methodist Church purchased the school property from Robert Campbell Edwards, moving the School from Rose Street to Gwynton Park, and renamed it to Box Hill Grammar School. This new chapter in the School’s history saw significant changes, including the construction of new facilities like the Cato block of classrooms in 1930.
During this period, the School became co-educational, offering a family-like atmosphere that attracted many students from local and rural areas. The addition of farm animals, horse-riding, and camps created a unique educational environment that blended academic learning with practical and outdoor activities. After World War II, the school began to modernize its facilities and curriculum to meet the changing needs of society. During his leadership and advocacy for coeducation, Charles Fitzroy Walker was responsible for various expansions and developments. The 1960s and 1970s saw the reintroduction of co-education, which had a transformative impact on the school’s culture and educational approach.
Under the leadership of Principals like Rev. Michael Norman and Rev. Charles Speedy, the school embraced a broader educational vision. This era marked the consolidation of Kingswood College as a progressive educational institution, offering a diverse and inclusive environment for all students. In 1987, Judith Anne Mitchell became the first female Principal, reflecting the School’s progressive ethos. Her tenure was followed by a period of significant growth under subsequent principals. The School expanded its curriculum to include courses in Technology and Hospitality, areas in which it became a pioneer among private schools. During the 1990s and early 2000s, the School focused on promoting student wellbeing and preparing students for life beyond.
In the 21st century, Kingswood College has continued to maintain its commitment to holistic education, introducing programs focusing on innovation, collaboration, and engagement. Principals Annette Bennet and Elisabeth Lenders both fostered a culture of respect and inclusivity, advocating for the academic and personal growth of each student. In 2023, the College welcomed Chrissy Gamble as it’s 17th Principal. Under her leadership, the School has continued to evolve, whilst defining its culture into the five values of Perseverance, Excellence, Respect, Courage and Kindness.
In celebrating 135 Years of Kingswood College, we honour the legacy of education, community and excellence that has shaped generations. From our rich heritage to a bright future, may we continue to embolden the hearts and inspire the minds of all our students.
JANUARY
1938 Ariel View of Box Hill Grammar School
1983 Ariel View of Kingswood College
2008 Ariel View of Kingswood College
2023 Ariel View of Kingswood College
FEBRUARY
2004 First Day of Prep
1994 Studying Flowers in Science
1933 Boarders Eric Shinkfield & David Ford
2011 Photographing House Swimming Carnival
MARCH
2014 Kitchen Garden Program
1976 Year 12
Premiership Basketball Team
2023 House Athletics Carnival
1987 Year 10 Tug Of War
APRIL
1993 Basketball & Tennis Courts
2019 Harmony Day Colour Run
2021 Harmony Day Collaborative Painting
2012 House Athletics Carnival
MAY
1998 Pre Prep Stars
2005 House Athletics Carnival
1985 Year 7 Art Class
1939 Henry Taylor Conducting BHGS Choir
JUNE
2006 Production of ‘Grease’
1987 Staff v Student Soccer Match
1992 Pre Preps with Fire Fighters
JULY
1993 Year 10 Formal Rehearsal
2005 James Macleod ‘Middle School Mural’
2003 Open Day Mosaics Activity
1995 Students Studying
2003 Middle School Building
2017 House Performing Arts Carnival
AUGUST
1990 Cooking Class
1991 Year 3 Students Quilt
2011 VCE Physics Activity
SEPTEMBER
2000 Senior Art Students
1931 Gwynton Park Dam at Rear of School
2005 Middle School Students in Computer Lab
OCTOBER
2011 Twilight Jazz Concert
1995 Year 12
1969 Woodwork Class
2006 Year 8 Camp
NOVEMBER
1963 Ann, David & Robyn Beanham
1928 Box Hill Grammar School Students
1960 School Sports Awards
2004 Human Powered Vehicle
2001 Rear of Senior School
2008 Junior School Garden Planting
DECEMBER
1996 Teachers & Senior Students
2009 Year 6 Graduation
1995 Front Gates on Station Street
