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How do you capture 130 Years of Extraordinary into a single story? At Fintona, it lives in a legacy of growth, purpose and possibility.
When Fintona Girls’ School opened its doors on 4 February 1896, just 14 students gathered in a single classroom. Today, more than 600 girls learn and thrive across two campuses that have grown with vision and intent. The establishment of the Preparatory year level in 1976, Kindergarten in 1994, Middle School in 1999 and the Early Learning Centre in 2008 demonstrates a steadfast commitment to nurturing girls at every stage of their learning journey.
From the beginning, Fintona was shaped by an extraordinary vision: to create an inspiring place of learning where intellect and character grow side by side – now stated in our mission as inspiring learners who lead. This belief endures through the school’s motto, Age Quod Agis, ‘do what you do well’, calling each student to pursue excellence with purpose, confidence and integrity.
That vision was brought to life by extraordinary women, beginning with founder and first Principal, Miss Annie Hughston, whose commitment to empowering young women continues to define Fintona’s identity. Her legacy lives on not only in spirit, but in name and presence, through the Annie Hughston Centre, and across the campus in spaces that honour Fintona’s female trailblazers, the Margaret Cunningham Wing, EM Butt Building and Beatrice Chilvers Library, each standing as a tribute to the women who have shaped generations of girls.
Academic excellence remains a defining hallmark of the school, driven by extraordinary dedication from students and staff alike. Fintona consistently ranks among Melbourne’s leading private schools and the top performers in the state for VCE and NAPLAN results – evidence of a learning culture that challenges girls to think deeply, aim high and do what they do, extraordinarily well.
In 2026, Fintona marks a remarkable convergence of milestones – including 90 years at the Balwyn Road campus, 50 years of Prep, 40 years of rowing, and 30 years of the student exchange partnership with Yokohama Eiwa School in Japan. Looking ahead, the opening of the Performing Arts Centre in 2027 will expand opportunities for students to find their voice, build confidence and perform on a professional stage.
This is Fintona’s story: 130 years of extraordinary, and the foundation for all that is still to come.
