DOCUMENT

CENTENARY Ann Mildenhall,1995–2003 “It is hard to believe that it’s been almost 25 years since I moved from Auckland, with Peter and our two children, to a city and school new to us all. How the College and the city have changed in that time, at least on the outside. Queen Margaret, her girls and staff have become an important part of my life. I was initially drawn to the values the Founders espoused, and I think the College continues to demonstrate them. I feel so proud of the students I see on the bus or about the city and of the Old Girls, whose warmth and generosity I enjoy. “Those first few years were tough! Nonetheless I think that hard work paid off and has contributed to the College it is today. It is so satisfying to see The Margaret Schools Association continuing to be of benefit to the girls, and with the IB programme, alongside NCEA, students have opportunities to grow and be part of a wider, ever-changing world. “During its first century, QMC sawmany dramatic moments in the lives of women and girls, and as the College enters its second century, I am sure there will be more. I wish this wonderful school more success in the coming years.” Carol Craymer, 2004–2017 “Prior to applying for the Principal’s position, I spent a Saturday afternoon exploring the grounds of the College. There was no one else around, and the grand Tower Building, set in a leafy garden, on a clear spring day, seemed the perfect place to work. I had enjoyed my first teaching job at Christchurch Girls’, sited at that time in the CBD, and could see similarities with QMC, an inner-city school with a focus on delivering excellence in girls’ education, its amazing alumnae being proof of this. “Having previously worked at Diocesan School for Girls as Head of English, I appreciated the challenges facing private schools in New Zealand, but I also relished the opportunities independence offered: to implement the world-class IB (International Baccalaureate) programmes, build on the cultural, sporting and leadership offerings and develop the infrastructure to support these initiatives. I was hooked and duly submitted my application”. “Over the 13 and a half years of principalship, my affection deepened for this very special school, with its quirky traditions: walking in silence to assembly, the banners’ ceremonies and House Performing Arts Day, to name but a few. Above all, I loved the family feeling of QMC, a result of its Preschool to Year 13 structure and the generous support given by parents, the Board and teachers who are committed to the College’s very important mission: in the words of the Founders, ‘to develop the best type of girlhood and womanhood’.” 18 Queen Margaret Calling :: ISSUE 63 :: May 2019