Through her eyes

Walford leaves a lasting impact on everyone who walks through its gates.

From inspiring teachers to lifelong friendships and endless opportunities to follow your passions, it’s easy to see why Walford means so much to so many. To capture what makes it so special, we invited four incredible Walford women — a teacher, a current student and two old scholars, including Adelady’s very own Hayley Pearson, to share their experiences.

 

Hayley Pearson — old scholar and Co-Founder of Adelady

“From the moment I walked through the gates at Walford, I was surrounded by people who genuinely believed in me and wanted me to succeed,” says Hayley. Encouraged to explore everything from academics to sports and the arts, she found an inner confidence that shaped her future. “As a teenager, when self doubt could’ve taken over, Walford made me feel that anything was possible. My teachers would all probably agree I talked too much in class, but their belief in me drove me to achieve what I’ve accomplished today. I’m so grateful to be part of a community that inspires and uplifts one another.”

Madeline Rodgers — current student

With 13 years at Walford already under her belt, 15-year-old Madeline reflects on her journey so far. “I feel so lucky to have grown up in such a supportive school. I never expected to enjoy my academics so much, while also getting involved in activities like choir, band and various sports. I’m very grateful to all my friends, coaches and teachers at Walford for creating such a safe and encouraging environment and am really looking forward to what my final three years will bring!”

Taylah Parker — old scholar and SANFL Junior Umpiring Officer

Throughout her 14 years at the school, Taylah benefitted from Walford’s enduring approach of empowering each girl to achieve ‘Her Best, Her Way’. Walford provided her with the academic foundation to pursue a Bachelor of Medical Imaging while also excelling as an athlete and umpire, including becoming the only female boundary umpire in the senior squad of the SANFL. “Walford taught me resilience and showed me that there are no barriers for girls in STEM, leadership or sport. I’ll always be grateful for my lifelong friendships and the confidence and core values that were instilled in me.”

Alice Speirs — Head of Secondary School and teacher

For Alice, teaching was an unexpected calling that began when she visited Walford as a guest speaker in her then career as an accountant. This experience opened her eyes to a new career, and years later, she returned to Walford as a teacher. “The breadth and depth of the Walford community continues to amaze me. The old scholars who

return to share their journeys are truly inspiring for our current students. It’s a cycle of support and giving that’s synonymous with the Walford community and culture. Here, we know every girl as both a student and a person. Watching them flourish in the classroom and then go on to lead in their own unique ways in the world is a privilege like no other.”

From the classroom to the world, the women of Walford are making their mark. It’s a place where friendships bloom, passions grow and every girl is empowered to follow her dreams. Once a Walford girl, always a Walford girl — because the spirit of Walford stays with you wherever life takes you.

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