Our History and Tradition

Founded in 1901, The Southport School was established by the Reverend Horace Henry Dixon.

Following is the journey of The Southport School, since its inception over 100 years ago.

1901	Alex Markwell and Frank Taylor joined the School as the first two students and boarders of the School.
1906	Formation of the cadet corps. TSS is the only School within Australia which offers the tri-cadet services program, which instils integral skills of leadership, confidence, discipline, self-esteem and teamwork.
1907	Formation of the Old Southportonians' Association. Upon graduation, each student becomes a life-long member of the OSA, which provides an invaluable network of contacts. A number of reunions and functions are organised throughout each year.
1909	Establishment of the first boarding houses (Delpratt, McKinley and Thorold). The philosophy of the ninety year-old pastoral care system is still inherent today.
1921	Opening of the St Alban’s Chapel which was built in memory of the Old Boy’s who died serving their country in World War 1.
1926	Official opening of the iconic clock tower building.
1959	Opening of the first senior school dayboy houses.
1981	Relocation of the former Pacific Cable Station, placed on the Nerang River within the school grounds. The building is the home of the School’s music department.
1989	Relocation of the Preparatory School to Lupus Street, which is now the official home of the TSS Preparatory School, catering for students from Prep Year to Year 7.
1990	The library was officially opened by Mrs Palmer (Stumm). In 1975 the Harley Stumm Memorial Library was built in memory of Harley Stumm, Rhodes Scholar who died in World War II. The present library is a modern enlargement providing extensive reference and reading material.
1993	Opening of the Annand Theatre, which is home to the School’s musical performances, assemblies and other key school events.
2001	In celebration of the School’s centenary, the Centenary Centre was officially opened. The world class facilities incorporate indoor basketball courts, gymnastics training facilities, gymnasium, rock-climbing wall and the Hall of Fame.
2004	Opening of the state-of-the-art Senior Science Centre.

Page last modified 20-Aug-2007