At Korowa, we believe in the power of giving back to the community. Jan, a former student and teacher at Korowa, has lived this philosophy in every stage of her life. As we celebrate our 135th anniversary, we sat down with Jan to reflect on her unique journey and discuss how she continues to honour Korowa’s legacy while inspiring others to do the same.

Jan, can you share a bit about your connection to Korowa and how your journey from student to staff unfolded?

A: I finished my schooling after leaving Korowa in Year 11, which was an accepted thing to do at the time. I only left because Korowa was hiring an arts and crafts teacher, so I decided to apply and was fortunate enough to get the position. It was an exciting transition, and I loved teaching at Korowa, which I continued to do until I moved from Melbourne in 1972. When I moved back closer to Korowa, my connections with the school reignited and I was heavily involved in the Alumni Community.

What were some of the classes or subjects that you remember which have changed or are no longer part of the curriculum today?

We had Domestic Science, which was cooking and learning how to prepare meals for your family. We also had Art of Speech, which was focused on teaching us how to speak properly, enunciate, and read aloud. Another thing that’s changed is the uniforms. When I was a student, we wore a dress and jumper with a blazer, and our sports uniform was a tunic.

Korowa is celebrating its 135th anniversary this year. From your perspective, what’s changed at Korowa since your time as a student and teacher?

A: There have been so many changes. The school has grown enormously, not just in staff numbers but physically too. When I first started, the administration was tiny, just 4 people. There were also changes in the school structure. It once had a boarding school, which closed by 1959, and new buildings have been built over the years. I can still vividly remember the old layout, especially of Ranfurlie House, which was the senior school when I was a student. The classrooms where we used to have our lessons are now offices for admin departments like Marketing, Development and Finance. Even though the building has been refurbished, I can still picture the old layout in my mind, where everything used to be. It’s like stepping into the past while seeing how much the school has evolved.

You’ve been a volunteer here for many years. What drives you to keep coming back?

A: Korowa has always been a big part of my life. I started volunteering in 1998, and I find it fulfilling to give back to the school that gave me so much. Whether it’s working with the archives, helping at reunions, or assisting with school events, I’m always happy to contribute in any way I can.

Ian Robertson, Alumni Manager, works closely with Jan and has a deep appreciation for her contributions:

“All institutions need keepers of the corporate knowledge and Jan is one of those keepers – her memory for people, their interrelationships and knowledge of past events is extraordinary and is a much-valued attribute by those of us who have the privilege of knowing and working with Jan. I salute Jan for her amazing loyalty to the School, friendship and spirit of giving. She exemplifies the words of Oscar Wilde ‘the smallest act of kindness is worth more than the grandest intention’.

 Jan is a familiar face at reunions, and it is so heartening to see so many Korovians from the years that she was a teacher, delight in seeing her familiar and welcoming face with the refrain ‘ It’s Miss Kostos’ – always said with excitement and affection’ Jan represents the power of continuity and connection.”

How do you hope today’s students are inspired by your example?

A: Volunteering is something I’ve done for many years. There’s always something to do to help the school, such as contributing to the School’s archives. I’d say that giving back helps you stay connected with the people and the history that shaped you. I hope that more students will find the joy in volunteering, just as I have.

Q: How does it feel to be connected to Korowa’s legacy?

A: When I think about the school’s history, I’m proud to have been involved in so many stages of its journey, from student to teacher, and now as an alumni volunteer. I feel privileged to have seen Korowa grow and to still be part of its story. It’s amazing to think that while the school continues to change and innovate, the sense of community has always remained the heart of the school.

Jan’s journey with Korowa is a testament to the enduring power of community and the impact of giving back. As we reflect on 135 years of Korowa’s legacy, Jan’s dedication to preserving the school’s history and maintaining meaningful connections with past students is a legacy that will continue to inspire future generations.