Anne Ryan (Prowse)

Around 14 members of my family have attended MLC since 1913, including my daughter Susan (1981).

I think my parents thought it was my surrogate home, because not only did I go to school there, I taught there for over 20 years.

As an art educator my aim was to establish an environment in which students and adults could develop a positive attitude towards learning and a lifelong love of art and craft.

I endeavoured to foster creativity and original thought across the curriculum, which culminated in the annual Junior School Art Exhibition, in which every student exhibited a piece of quality, original work.

I saw a lot of changes in my time there. When I first started in the Junior School we didn't have an art room. We just carried baskets around.

The biggest change was seeing art education become a recognised part of the curriculum. Before that it was just something you did on a Friday afternoon.

Whilst teaching at MLC and the Education Department I had the opportunity to present professional development classes for teachers at Edith Cowan University and schools throughout the State.

My greatest professional achievement was being made a sessional staff member for Edith Cowan University's Primary Programme, Bachelor of Education course.

In life after teaching I became a ceramist in my own right, and have been able to exhibit in over 10 galleries including the Perth Concert Hall, Mundaring Arts Centre and the Old Bakery, Maylands.

I have continued my association with the wider art world in a variety of ways, including as a volunteer gallery guide and project officer for Young Originals at the Art Gallery of WA.

Per Ardua ad Alta: 'Strive for the highest' encapsulates my philosophy on how to live your life – and to have fun!

On MLC: I have very happy memories from all my links with MLC. As a boarder I made friendships which have lasted these past 60 years. Other boarding memories include a myriad of concerts, sporting events, Guy Fawkes nights. As a teacher, my everlasting memory is of enthusiastic and dedicated staff and as a Collegian, being part of a very special community.