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Without set directives from the Education Department, but determined to build a reputable school, Johnston emphasised the continuity of Princes Hill School’s fine tradition. His first priority was to stem the flow of the school’s better students to University High School. He went on to foster a strong school spirit, which to him meant instituting school uniforms and organised sport, as well as holding weekly assemblies in Wilson Hall at the University of1VIe1bourneof Melbourne, just as University High was doing.‘15 43 He conscientiously honoured his obligations to his school by attending all meetings of the School Advisory Council and Parents’ and Teachers’ Association.44 His sense of team spirit and solidarity helped the staff cope with the school’s dreadful conditions and shoestring budget.45
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Sier’s ability to gather talented staff around him and his willing reception of new ideas won the praise of his teachers. The establishment of Yabberstick, the school newspaper, is a good example. Convinced that the project had merit, Sier encouraged it and supported it financially.53 Mirimbah, the school’s country centre at Mansfield, was another. The school also experimented with a number of pedagogical programmes, among them General Studies, creative workshops, equal opportunity, special classes for maladjusted children, English as a second language and the establishment of the Princes Hill School Park Centre.54
Olive Hamilton, Senior Mistress at Princes Hill High School, searches the ruins of one of the classrooms, 1970. Photograph courtesy of the Age, 9/2/1970
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