A lot can happen over 100 years. Triumphs, setbacks and everything in between. At Queenwood, our first Centenary has been marked by a number of milestones as the school progressed from our foundation years.

Throughout its history, Queenwood has maintained a commitment to fostering a balanced education, encouraging academic achievement alongside cultural and sporting pursuits, and nurturing young women who are curious, generous of spirit, and committed to shaping the world.

Our story

— 1920s

1925

On 22 September 1925, Grace Lawrance and Beatrice Rennie open Queenwood to 5 students (Queenwood birthday)


On 29 October 1925, Mayor of Mosman officially opens the school (Foundation Day)


1928

Lawrance becomes ill; Rennie becomes unofficial principal


1929

Violet Medway joins the school


— 1930s

1930

Boarding halts during Great Depression.


1931

Rennie officially appointed Principal


1933

Boarding re-opens


— 1940s

1944

1942

In February 1942, part of the school is evacuated to Glenleigh, south of Penrith


Medway becomes co-owner of Queenwood


— 1950s

1957

Last boarder leaves Queenwood


— 1960s

1961

Medway becomes full principal


1966

Board of Governors instituted


— 1970s

1974

Esplanade campus is built and time capsule buried


1975

Queenwood celebrates its 50th birthday
Listen to a vinyl recording of the birthday celebrations: Side 1 and Side 2


— 1980s

1982

Allison Stalley becomes Principal


1987

Judith Wheeldon becomes Principal


— 1990s

1990

New Junior School at Medway Centre open


1992

Medway retires as Chair of Board of Governors


1996

Kem Bray appointed as Principal


— 2000s

2004

New Senior School campus opens


2008

James Harpur becomes Principal


— 2010s

2010

Sports/Science Campus opens at 44 Mandolong Road; Lawrance Building opens


2014

Elizabeth Stone becomes Principal


— 2020s

2024

Marise McConaghy becomes Principal