The story of Korowa’s campus expansion is one of bold vision, strategic acquisition, and community-driven development. As we mark 135 years, we look back on the evolution of the spaces that have shaped generations of girls, and the learning environments built for the future.
Humble Beginnings
Mrs Henrietta Akehurst, our founding Principal, opened the doors to her home in Pine Grove, Malvern, and welcomed her first student. As enrolments slowly climbed, the school moved to Wattletree Road, where timber classrooms and a residential setting gave students room to learn and grow. It was a small operation but one with ambition.
1914 | A New Home at Ranfurlie
In 1914, Mrs Akehurst’s daughter, Miss Ethel Akehurst, made a bold decision that would shape the future. She purchased from the Knox family, Ranfurlie (originally called Everton), a grand hilltop Victorian home on the edge of Glen Iris in Ranfurlie Crescent. At the time, it was surrounded by paddocks and orchards, but she saw potential. With sweeping gardens, high ceilings and room to breathe, Everton became the heart of the School and a bold new chapter began. This purchase marked the first significant milestone in Korowa’s campus expansion.
1914 | Life at Knox House
For nearly fifty years, Ranfurlie served as the School’s boarding house. Later renamed Knox House, it became home for generations of girls from across Victoria. Dormitories filled the upper floors, and the ballroom became an assembly hall. Stories continue to be shared by former boarders at our Korowa reunions.
1926 to 1935 | A Campus Takes Shape
As enrolments increased, so did the need for purpose-built learning spaces. In 1926, Korowa constructed its first academic building. The building was renamed The Roberts Wing in the 1960s after the School Chaplain Reverend A.A Roberts and for many years was the ‘home’ of Year 9 girls. By 1935, a second storey had been added, setting the tone for Korowa’s Campus Expansion.Around this time, the Dorrington Archway (still standing today) welcomed students from the southern entrance. In 1938, the School’s wrought iron gates were installed - both are iconic symbols to generations of Korovians.
The 1960s | An era of expansion
Under the leadership of Miss Beatrice Guyett, Korowa’s Campus Expansion grew rapidly. As new families moved into the area, the School responded with new buildings, specialist classrooms and creative spaces. A community-wide capital appeal helped fund this expansion.The Junior School, East and West wings, science labs, domestic arts rooms and the Assembly Hall all rose during this time. By the early 1960s, boarding had officially ended, and Knox House shifted its purpose to serve the wider School community. It was later demolished to make way for modern facilities, and although the original building is gone, its legacy remains strong in the memories of Korovians.
1970s to 1990 | Building for Creativity and Care
The following decades saw a continued commitment to the whole student experience. In 1985, a heated swimming pool was opened and new facilities for music, visual arts, home economics and VCE students were introduced. In 1990, the centenary was marked with the opening of the Music School, reinforcing Korowa’s commitment to performance and creative expression.
1990s to 2000s | Growing with Purpose
In 1994, Korowa opened its Early Learning Centre, one of the first of its kind among girls’ schools in Victoria. Soon after came new staff spaces, updated facilities, and the Cripps Centre for students in Years 7 and 8. The work of the Korowa Foundation and the Korowa Parents’ Association enabled many of these projects to be completed.
2010s to Now | A Living Legacy
In 2010, the Junior School was fully redeveloped, continuing Korowa’s commitment to future-focused learning environments. In 2022, the Roslyn Otzen Sports and Wellbeing Centre officially opened - the largest building project in Korowa’s history. Named in honour of Dr Roslyn Otzen, former Principal and co-founder of Girls’ Sport Victoria, this centre reflects Korowa’s belief that wellbeing, strength and connection are essential to every student’s growth.
The Campus That Grows With Us
As we celebrate 135 years, we remember the spaces that shaped us and continue to shape every student who walks through our gates today. And while buildings may change, our commitment remains the same: to create spaces where students grow, lead and imagine what’s possible.Take a tour of our expanded campus today and see firsthand how we continue to evolve.
