1990-1999 Potted history

Information sourced from A Jubilee Retrospective by Robert Ewins, CHESS NEWS and school newsletters 

During the 90’s four Principals celebrated the school’s Jubilee anniversary, enjoyed increased enrolments, and encouraged combined musical events with nearby schools. Students started participating in drama and sport again.

  • 1990
    • Each House presented a play at the Annual Drama Festival.
    • Renovations were carried out on the old building and admin areas. New work included a computer centre, a “flying” wing to join up the 1941 and 1970 buildings, the installation of security and soundproofing of the music rooms.
  • 1991
    • The school celebrated its Jubilee year with a black tie dinner, a concert at the Camberwell Civic Centre, Back to School Open House, tours and a BBQ.
    • The ex-students group, CHESS was formed and donated $500 to the Principal’s Fund.
    • Senior classes were the biggest ever: Year 11 had 165 students and Year 12 155.
  • 1992
    • Former students agreed to be patrons of the Sports Hall/ Gym Appeal.
    • TV stars helicoptered into “Cup Day” to raise $5,000 for the Sports Hall.
    • Principal Ann Rusden retired.
  • 1993
    • New Principal Norm Nugent commenced.
  • 1994
    • CHS took over the running of the pool.
  • 1995
    • The new Principal, Elida Brereton, began restoring the name of CHS as a top school, despite fierce competition from neighbouring schools.
    • The $750,000 School hall was completed.
    • Annual combined music concert with Canterbury Girls at St Paul’s Cathedral.
    • Year 8, 9 and 10 students attended camps in Gippsland and Omeo.
  • 1996
    • 840 students enrolled, including the largest Year 7 intake for many years.
    • A new uniform was introduced.
    • The 50th Choral Festival was held at the school in May.
    • The Music Tour performed in South Australia and New South Wales.
    • A Sports afternoon was introduced for Years 9 and 10.
  • 1997
    • 8 paying overseas students commenced.
  • 1998
    • A sister school relationship commenced with Isogo High School, Yokohama.
    • A number of Year 12 students won “TOP CAT” drama awards.
  • 1999
    • 975 students enrolled. 200 in Year 7 and 285 in VCE.
    • CHS awarded $1.2 million for a new Arts and Technology complex.
    • 8 students and 2 teachers visited the sister school in Osago, Japan.
    • The House Arts Festival featured music, dance, drama, art and design presentations.
    • An Australian play The Temple was staged
    • Asia week was celebrated with a Moon Festival Assembly Concert.