Sapphires’ Chapel Service and Luncheon 2025

This term, we hosted our annual Sapphires’ Chapel Service and Luncheon for those Old Girls who graduated from MLC School more than 51 years ago. Our oldest attendee graduated in 1945 and our youngest Sapphires, the Class of 1974, joined us for the first time.

What an honour and delight it was to be with these Old Girls for the afternoon. Their excitement in reuniting with friends, their fierce love of the School and the tears that flowed as they sang the School song reminded me of the strong, enduring and perception-breaking community that underpins the story of MLC School.

As the women shared their memories of their teachers, sports days, journeys on the train so that they would come across the Newington boys and occasional naughty escapade, it became apparent that their experiences at school hadn’t always been perfect; there were the teachers who did not treat them fairly, cold water showers for the boarders, a ban on dancing due to Methodist beliefs at the time, uncomfortable uniforms and sparse classrooms. Despite the challenges, they built lifelong friendships and went on to have marvellous careers (often in fields not usually pursued by women of the day). Like other Old Girls that I have met, they credit much of their success to the mindset and curiosity for learning that was encouraged throughout their education at MLC School.

Our Sapphires were so impressed by our current students. They were in awe of their ability to welcome them and chat with such confidence and ease, the inspiring speeches given by our student archivist Mary (Year 11) and our 2026 School Captain Anisha, the enchanting musical performance from our Chamber Choir and the poise that our youngest Junior School students displayed as they presented flowers and assisted with the cutting of the cake.

Perhaps the tone of the day is best expressed by this email from Jillian, Class of 1965:

‘I want to express my delight at being able to attend yesterday’s magnificent celebration of an amazing school. It was wonderful to see and hear what is happening and the new initiatives which I support fully. To meet first in the Chapel Service and then at lunch with peers with whom we spent up to five years together was rewarding. To hear their stories and listen to how they managed some hardship is inspirational.

Thank you for organising the day so beautifully.

Without MLC School and the speech lessons I had with Joyce Foreman in the 1960s and after leaving school I would not have followed in her footsteps and provided Speech Communication lessons to thousands of students from all walks of life. I would not have worked in developing countries teaching English to scientists. Those lessons have given me an occupation which I am still heavily involved in and for this I say, “Thank You.”

I love the positivity and the inspiration of the Executive Role leaders, and it was evident that they too “Walk as Daughters of the Light”.’

Additionally, our School Captain, Anisha, shared in her speech: 

‘I believe our School Song perfectly captures the kind of legacy you, as Sapphires, have left behind as [you] shall not see them, but [you] can endow. This place with beauty for them here and now. 

‘Although you may not always see the impact you’ve made, the culture you fostered, the spirit, pride, and sense of belonging continue to flourish. We are grateful for the roots you planted that have grown into a vibrant community that continuously encourages girls to Dare to be More, as the School pioneers in all fields of women’s education.  

‘As we walk through the hallways of Kent House, sit beneath the trees on Principal’s Lawn, or sing our School song together, we are reminded that we are all part of something greater  a collective story of women who continue to grow and strengthen the legacy you began. 

‘We promise to carry that legacy forward as a light. A light that continues to shine for every new generation of girls who walk through these gates, as we become leaders of the future.’ 

Thank you for continuing to be an integral part of the MLC School story. We look forward to celebrating our 140th anniversary year with you in 2026 and creating new memories together. Until then, please stay connected, share your stories, and join us as we honour 140 years of courage, achievement, and community. 

Click here to view the Facebook album.

Click on the image gallery for full size images.

– Lisa Moloney 
Principal