The impact of change

SONDRA WOLFENDEN, HEAD OF JUNIOR SCHOOL

Co-education at The Geelong College began with our youngest learners in Campbell House. Fifty years on, our Head of Junior School, reflects on the impact this change has had.

During the 163-year history of The Geelong College, we have witnessed many changes to the school. Some small, some significant and all of which were shaped by environmental factors in our society.

As an educator, parent and member of our community, there is one change that I believe has been most pivotal, altering the educational landscape more than any other.

Fifty years ago, the College recognised the necessity of embracing co-education, opening the doors to all genders, and marking the beginning of a new chapter in our journey.

This step transformed Campbell House (which was then a part of the College’s Preparatory School), welcoming a new era of inclusivity, equality, and continued growth of excellence that would soon spread across all year levels.

As well as offering a host of benefits and opportunities to all of our students, this monumental and, at the time, courageous decision was a significant step towards gender equality.

What we did not realise back in 1974 was that by welcoming coeducation, the College was also taking its first step towards adopting the Reggio Emilia approach to education that guides Campbell House today.

The Reggio Emilia philosophy takes its name from the northern Italian village in which it was developed, and came to fruition shortly after the second world war.

The community of Reggio Emilia believed that, collaboratively, they needed to ‘do better’ following the historic emancipation of women and children. The result is an educational philosophy that is child-centred and fosters creativity, critical thinking, and a love of learning. It teaches respect for all members of the community, ensures equal opportunities for all, and fosters an inclusive and respectful environment. This is expressed through the concept of the ‘image of the child’, which sees children as competent, curious, and capable learners who actively construct their own knowledge through exploration and social interaction, emphasising respect for their ideas, potential, and rights.

Shifting the approach to education in the village of Reggio Emilia was not an easy task. Progressive and child-centred, it was considered controversial by some as it was in contrast to traditional, teacherdirected education. However, it eventually gained widespread respect and influence in early childhood education and can now be found in over 145 countries and territories worldwide.

The transition to co-education for Campbell House, too, was not without its challenges. It demanded a fundamental shift in the way education was delivered and experienced, as well as establishing how girls were viewed as members of the school with over 100 years of history as a boys’ school. Yet, on the whole, the change was met with enthusiasm and determination from the College community, united in its commitment to providing equal opportunities for all students.

I have relished the accounts of Old Collegians who attended during these early years of co-education, who tell of the ways the school came together to ensure an inclusive curriculum. With agency came empowerment of all genders, the children were seen and believed to be capable citizens of the present and for our future.

This transformation has been generational and organic in its evolution, fostering co-education where boys and girls learn alongside each other, reshaping societal beliefs and expectations. This inclusive approach is now proudly embraced and celebrated. Embracing diversity and understanding differences are valued as essential for reaching our potential and becoming empathetic global citizens. This ethos is reflected in our commitment to “Community with Diversity” at Campbell House.

Children at Campbell House cherish the relationships they build and the trust they develop among each other. They play, learn, and interact in purpose-built learning spaces designed for each child to thrive. All children are seen as thinkers, theory builders and conversationalists. They are independent learners set for their own lifelong journey of discovery. I am proud of our community, which celebrates individuality without limits of gender or culture.

Every day for the students is a day full of life, a flow of knowledge and experience from one day to the next. Each day becomes a part of the continuous project, that of life.’

-Maddelena Tedeschi, Reggio Emilia

The impact of co-education at Campbell House has been profound, creating a dynamic and diverse learning environment. By bringing together students of different genders, backgrounds, and perspectives, we’ve cultivated a rich tapestry of ideas and experiences. This diversity enriches classroom discussions, expands horizons, and fosters empathy among students. Co-education has broken down stereotypes and biases, empowering students to pursue their passions freely and without limitations.

Girls and boys continue to learn and play alongside each other and have found their voices in traditionally male-dominated areas such as sport, science and designing, while boys feel free to explore areas that may previously have been seen as female-dominated - like music, performing arts and visits to the library.

With the heart of our school connecting to nature and ensuring our strong connection to Mother Earth, the children play alongside each other, building cubby houses, getting dirty and exploring our Nature Play areas. This breaking down of barriers has not only expanded individual opportunities but also paved the way for a more equitable society.

It is clear that the approach is one our students enjoy, as a conversation with any current student will confirm. Our past students also remain connected to the College, with many now College parents or staff memberssometimes both.

Our school has been a cornerstone of early childhood development in the region, shaping countless lives through dedicated educators, innovative programs, and a nurturing environment. As we celebrate 50 years of co-education, we honour our legacy and look forward to continuing our journey of growth and excellence in the evolving landscape of education. Our achievements so far serve as a strong foundation for continued growth, excellence, and contribution to the ever-evolving landscape of early childhood education.

A landscape that I suspect will continue to grow and change greatly over the next 50 years, and beyond.