The strength of our community makes Wilderness a special place to belong, and I have been reminded of this continuously over the past few weeks.

At the annual Welcome Drinks, it was clear how connected our parent community is, as new and continuing families caught up and got to know each other better ahead of the school year. Our wonderful Parents and Friends Association (P&F) once again hosted a beautiful evening. P&F volunteers work behind at the scenes on so many occasions to make these opportunities to connect possible.

We welcomed our Early Learning Centre families to a Housewarming to celebrate the opening of our new Mamie and Annie Brown House, and it was incredibly fulfilling to see our girls show their families around. They were excited to introduce their parents and siblings to their learning environment, as well as its newest residents—two little chicks named Noodle and Dumpling! Each Annie and Mamie girl was presented with a plant to signify how they will each grow, learn and bring something different to our ELC community—and make it stronger in doing so.

I also had the chance to connect with many of our regional families at the Boarding Parents Weekend, organised by very generous parent volunteers. We travelled to the McLaren Vale region, enjoying great food and company. Our boarding families are spread across the country but share the experience of their daughter being a Wildy boarder. Their daughters, throughout their time at Wilderness, form such strong bonds, and the weekend was an opportunity for their families to get to know one another better too.

Our Wilderness community, including families, old scholars, staff, volunteers and industry partners, is a great asset to our girls. I hope that, as we demonstrate the value of community while they are at school, it inspires them to build strong relationships whenever they pursue new ventures and environments in the future.

Easter Weekend Early Dismissal

Please note the early dismissal time on Thursday 28 March at 1.05pm.

Vale Ruth C. Birrell

It is with sadness we advise of the passing of Mrs Ruth C. Birrell, former Headmistress of Wilderness School, on Wednesday 28 February 2024.

Mrs Birrell was appointed Headmistress of Wilderness School in June 1975.

Described as “an experienced French Teacher whose enthusiasm was infectious”, her 11-year tenure saw the School go from strength to strength. Under her leadership, enrolments grew substantially, the academic standard was enhanced and outstanding matriculation results were achieved. Taking an active role in each area of the school, it was noted that “a school where the Headmistress takes such an interest is most fortunate indeed”.

Mrs Birrell navigated the School through a significant period of change, assessing value, modifying plans and providing a sense of security as the School moved successfully “towards two thousand”. All members of the community appreciated her very fine contribution to the life of the School; her influence and her work have made Wilderness the great and highly respected school it was in her day and continues to be since.

In her ‘Report from the Headmistress’ published in the 1986 Yearbook, Mrs Birrell says, “I have felt that it has truly been a privilege to have been Headmistress of a fine School which cherishes high standards and traditions of worth”.

We send our condolences to her family at this sad time.