OLD GOLD ALUMNI ASSOCIATION
BENDIGO HIGH SCHOOL
BENDIGO SENIOR SECONDARY COLLEGE
BENDIGO SENIOR SECONDARY COLLEGE
| Naming of Buildings |
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As the college celebrates its centenary, College Council considered the naming of buildings after significant persons in the school's history.
This was not an easy task, nor one taken lightly. Over the 100 years there have been over 1200 staff, numerous parents involved in School
Council and Parents Clubs, as well as 35,000 students. It was decided to make fewer namings rather than name all permanent buildings,
so that future generations may also look at recognising significant individuals in this manner.
After much deliberation College Council decided to name 3 buildings.
Old Gold Quadrangle It was felt that this should not be named after any individual but rather capture that the quadrangle has been at the heart of the school since its inception. All former students relate to this building. Thus the naming of the Old Gold Quadrangle is in recognition of all former and present students and staff. Florence Anderson Building Florence Anderson's contribution to Bendigo High School was extraordinary and her influence on generations of students was far reaching. The 1930 Administration building will be now known as the Florence Anderson Building. Miss Anderson was associated with Bendigo High School from 1917 to 1970. Over a period of 53 years she was a major influence within the school.
Ron Lake Building The 1990s three story building will be known as the Ron Lake Building. This is in recognition of Ron's very significant contribution to Bendigo Senior Secondary College over many years. He was responsible for gaining the funding to build E wing, which houses Technology, Science and The Visual Arts. Teacher 1970 - 1971, 1973 - 1978 Principal 1989 - 2001 During Ron's time the college gained a world wide reputation as a leader in education. It was the first government school in the world to gain international accreditation by the European Council of International Schools. Ron's vision and passion for providing the best educational opportunities for students was paramount in the college's success. From The School on the Hill: During his 13 years as principal . the college had developed extensive community, business and international links and promoted a global outlook . Rob Blachford, [ the then] regional director for the Department of Education, Employment and Training described Ron Lake as a visionary leader. "A lot of the advancements in education which have occurred in Bendigo during the past decade can be traced back to Ron. He's left a strong legacy on not just the college but the teaching industry itself, which will remain long after he has moved on." It is interesting to consider the collective contribution of Florence Anderson and Ron Lake. It spans a 90 year period, from 1917 to 2007, as Ron is still involved in the college in his current role as Regional Director. So these two staff members have carried forward the traditions which had their beginnings in 1907. Miss Anderson was a pupil when James King was Headmaster. Miss Anderson and Mr Lake were both on staff for a short period of time in 1970. Ron, in his role as Principal of the school, gave the eulogy at Miss Anderson's funeral. The Premier of Victoria, Hon John Brumby and Rosemary McKenzie unveiled 3 plaques formally naming the Old Gold Quadrangle, the Florence Anderson Building and the Ron Lake Building. |