In 2024, after years of research and consultation, Melbourne Grammar School broke ground on a landmark building for the teaching of Humanities – and with it a more curious future for our students.
“After years spent planning, it has been so exciting these past few months to witness this first phase of construction,” says Headmaster Philip Grutzner.
“As new generations of students move through the School, it is more important than ever that the learning environments we provide continue to ignite their imaginations, provide space for open discussion and allow for opportunities to engage in critical thinking.”
The building will provide a dedicated space for the teaching of Classical Studies, English, Geography, History, and Literature, as well as Media, Philosophy, and Politics.
Replacing the Rhoden and Neill buildings at the north-western corner of the Main Oval, the development formally completes Melbourne Grammar’s triangulation of faith, science and reason alongside the Chapel of St Peter and the Geoff Handbury Science and Technology Hub.
Philip says he is excited to welcome all members of our School community to share in this journey.
and Fontic on 14 August 2024
“Any progress we make would not be nearly as exciting, if I were not able to share it with a School community that truly understands what it is we’re trying to achieve.
“By committing to such a landmark project, I know that we are responsibly preparing students for their future – ensuring they leave School with a solid foundation in ethical reasoning, moral judgement, and the ability to think for themselves.”
To stay up-to-date on the progress of construction, including building details, images, FAQs for parents and more, visit mgs.vic.edu.au/centre-for-humanities
Continuing the Rhoden legacy
For Penny Apted (OM 1994), granddaughter of former School Council member and Old Melburnians Council President Phil Rhoden (OM 1933), Melbourne Grammar School is more than a place of education – it is a part of her family’s history.
Penny’s father, as well as her uncle, brother, sister and cousins are all proud alumni – and today her own children continue the family tradition.
Penny says the School community we enjoy, and the environment her children benefit from each and every day, would not exist if not for the hard work of men like her grandfather.
“My grandfather’s legacy to Melbourne Grammar is founded in particular on the giving of his time and talent, which was his treasure,” she says.
As a new Centre for Humanities begins construction and replaces the building that carried her grandfather’s name, Penny says that Phil’s legacy continues in the spirit of the new development.
“The treasure shared by Phil will not be forgotten. The work he did for the School was in the hope that it would remain for future generations, for all the boys and girls he would never meet but already believed in,” she says.
“Education changes and evolves, and the learning spaces need to evolve too.
“Phil believed in lifelong learning, and he would be so proud to see future generations growing, exploring, and being inspired in a space dedicated to curiosity and knowledge.”
