Thanks to a generous endowment by Adelaide philanthropist Antony Simpson, named to honour his mother, Walford is now accepting applications for the Elizabeth Cleland Scholarship.

Elizabeth Robson Cleland, later known as Dr Elizabeth Simpson, was an exemplary Walford student from 1920 to 1927. She was the School Captain and Captain of Hockey, as well as an accomplished artist. A lover of science, Elizabeth studied Chemistry and Physics at Walford, before going on to complete a Bachelor of Science at the University of Adelaide with Honours in Zoology, and being awarded the John Bagot Medal for Botany. Elizabeth then completed her Master of Science, becoming only the fourth female graduate with that qualification at the time.

Elizabeth’s legacy is enshrined in the fabric of Walford, as the namesake of Cleland House, alongside her sister Margaret, as well as the Cleland Laboratory in the Ellen Benham Science Centre.

Mr Simpson says that his mother was a remarkable woman who believed strongly in the importance of education.

The Cleland Scholarship will provide opportunities for hard-working, values-driven young women, with academic and leadership potential.

The first Cleland Scholar will commence her education in Year 10 at Walford in 2026. For more information and to apply, please visit the Scholarships page.