Campus renewal and upgrades
Walford has recently completed an extensive campus renewal project, creating contemporary learning spaces that boldly embrace the future while preserving our past.
Walford’s diverse array of intentionally designed indoor and outdoor learning environments are continually tailored to our students to provide optimal spaces for learning, teaching and wellbeing, from early learning to Year 12.
Our recently completed campus renewal projects exemplify our dedication to innovative infrastructure, to ensure that we meet the demands of the dynamic world our students encounter. Our facilities work is future-focused while also upholding our cherished traditions.
Legacy Renewed: The Heart of Walford's Future
We are proud to announce the opening of Mabel Jewell Baker House, a beautifully reimagined space offering contemporary, purpose-designed learning environments for our Year 7 students at the heart of the Walford campus. Designed to support connection, collaboration, and academic excellence, the building brings together flexible classrooms, light-filled interiors, and seamless indoor and outdoor learning environments.
This transformation breathes new life into a place that has shaped Walford’s story for more than 100 years. Originally known as Woodlyn House, the building was acquired by Miss Mabel Jewell Baker’s family in 1917 and later became the site of Walford School. Over time, it has served many roles, from principal’s residence to boarding house and a centre for arts and learning.
Today, the redevelopment honours the rich heritage of this much-loved building while reimagining it for the future. Original architectural features have been carefully preserved and complemented by refined finishes and modern learning spaces. From the Jewell Pavilion balcony overlooking the Heart of Walford to the beautifully renewed interiors, the building reflects Walford’s commitment to embracing the future while preserving its past.
Explore Mabel Jewell Baker House
We were excited to launch the transformed Mabel Jewell Baker House in May 2026, with a hub for Year 7s on the ground floor, and modern learning spaces for the Secondary School upstairs.
Within the heritage façade, forward-thinking classrooms utilising modern technologies have been designed to facilitate flexible learning, academic excellence, and collaboration, reflecting the needs of today’s students.
The preserved charm of the original features combines with abundant natural light and elegant finishes that elevate the entire facility, and speak to its special history. Upstairs and downstairs, spaces extend to offer both indoor and outdoor learning opportunities, including the upstairs balcony of the new Jewell Pavilion, where students can let their imaginations soar while overlooking the Heart of Walford.
More Recently Completed Projects
Wait Building
In 2025, the Wait Building officially reopened following an extensive refurbishment.
The upper level of the facility has become a hub for visual arts, featuring state-of-the-art equipment and a contemporary layout to spark creativity.
The Year 12s were thrilled with their brand new common spaces on the ground floor, including modern kitchen, dining, and lounge areas.
Heart of Walford - Stages 2 and 3
Stages 2 and 3 of the Heart of Walford have been completed. The Middle and Senior campus has been transformed, with new landscaping stretching to Helen Reid Hall, offering expansive open spaces for gatherings and quiet areas for study. A winding water feature brings a touch of nature within our urban oasis, while the chapel garden has become a serene retreat.
This initiative brings with it enhanced outdoor learning environments and opportunities for students to foster personal connections with nature and essential social skills while developing their appreciation for the environment.
Heart of Walford - Stage 1
The completion of Stage 1 in 2022 marked a significant milestone in the project’s journey. Following the demolition of the original School Hall, which had stood for over a century, the space was revitalised into the Heart of Walford. This transformation brought new life to the landscape, restoring its former glory, and honouring the rich history of the site.
Junior School Playground
From late 2023 to early 2024, our Junior School playground underwent a wonderful transformation. Co-designed in collaboration with our Junior School students, Matthews Architects adapted our girls’ beautiful vision for a ‘wonderland’ and has brought to life the playground’s magical charm while intentionally including opportunities for the development of gross motor skills and upper body strength. Every corner of the whimsical space unveils surprises, from an oversized teacup and toadstools to ‘Alice’s Workshop’ that invites imagination and exploration.
Explore our campuses
If you haven’t visited the School in the last few years, you may be surprised by the changes that have taken place. We extend a warm invitation for you to come and see how we are adapting our grounds and facilities to meet the evolving needs of our students, and to ensure an outstanding education for generations of Walford girls.
