Historical timeline

This year we celebrate 160 years since the establishment of Ballarat College and the Ballarat Clarendon College community shares a sense of pride in acknowledging this significant milestone. From the first five students in 1864, we have grown to nearly 2,000 students today. We take this opportunity to highlight our history and traditions and shine a light on what makes us unique.

1864

 Ballarat College Founder, Reverend William Henderson

Reverend William Henderson opened Ballarat College on Wednesday 6 July 1864 when two seven-year-old cousins presented themselves at his church, St Andrew’s Presbyterian. On the following Monday morning they were joined by three other boys to become the first students at the school.

1864 

Sketch of first timber building on site of St Andrew’s Kirk

1864

First principal, Robert McCoy appointed

1874

 Timber school demolished and new Ballarat College opened on the same site but in new brick building, designed by renowned Ballarat architect, Henry Richards Caselli. On the right is St Andrews Kirk, constructed in 1884.

1877

Major John Garbutt appointed Principal. Longest serving Principal for 33 years, tenure 1877-1909.

1877

 Ballarat College whole of school including teachers. Ballarat College was co-educational until 1891. The ‘girls’ school’ was run by the ‘Lady Principal’.

1910

Purchase of Wanliss family property on Sturt Street

1912

 Ballarat College gates on the new school

1913

Ballarat College annual publication, the first Minervan printed

1914

Ballarat College’s boatshed being built

1918

Ballarat College assembly hall

1920

 Ballarat College building Dumbarton, Sturt Street. Currently the girls’ boarding house

1936

MacFarland dining hall

1940 circa

Memorial Hall

1961

The first issue of ringaroo published

1962

 Opening of McKinnon Wing with Prime Minister Menzies at the opening ceremony

1964

Students studying science in classroom

1974

In 1974 Ballarat College and Clarendon Presbyterian Ladies College formally joined together to become Ballarat Clarendon College

1974 – 2024

In 2024, we commemorate 160 years since the establishment of Ballarat College. From those first five students in 1864, we have grown to nearly 2,000 students today. While much has changed during this time, the vision and values of Reverend Henderson and Mrs Kennedy remain. Ballarat Clarendon College continues to help shape and influence the next generations, preparing them to become leaders and contributing members of our community.