From the famous ‘Holy Ground’ to the lizards roaming the school grounds, The Queen’s School had its own quirks, traditions and unwritten rules, according to the St Andrew-based institution’s alumni community.

Based on Observer Online’s discussions with past students, here are 11 things that will have any Queen’s girl reminiscing about life at the institution.

1. Holy Ground

Holy Ground never looked or felt particularly holy, so why was it called that in the first place? That remains a question worth asking. One thing was certain: students know the spot well, as it was reserved for devotions and, on occasion, punishment. It was hardly the place anyone wanted to visit for the wrong reasons!

2. Big Tree

Big Tree was one of the most recognisable landmarks on the school grounds. Towering over the area, it served as an outdoor lunchroom, complete with concrete tables and chairs where students gathered to eat, chat and socialise. And when all the seats were taken, the tables became seats, too. Rules or no rules, a girl had to find somewhere to sit!

3. The Hall

The Hall was the designated space for music and drama classes, but it doubled as a favourite hangout for several cliques. Getting students to leave was sometimes a task in itself, particularly for Mr Heriage, who old girls remember having had his hands full trying to get everyone out. For some, it was a classroom; for others, it was the place to catch up with friends.

4. Etheline Aiken

Legendary former principal who served as headmistress from 1976 to 1992. It was under her stewardship that The Queen’s School won the 1978 Girls’ Athletic Championship. Former students remember her as being strict, holding students accountable and requiring them to behave as proper young ladies. But, at the same time, she was well-loved.

5. The ‘iguanas’

Queen’s had lizards in every shape, size and colour imaginable. They were so plentiful that it sometimes seemed there were more lizards than students on the grounds. Whether perched somewhere in plain sight or scurrying across the grounds, these reptiles were a familiar part of the school environment.

6. The ‘Chiney’ shop across the road

The wholesale across the road was a popular stop before and after school. From bag juice and cake soap to rags and socks, it supplied students with a range of essentials. Despite repeated warnings not to cross the road to visit the shop, students somehow found themselves making the trip day after day.

7. Smithy, aka Mr Smith

When it came to Mr Smith, there were two sets of students: those who were lucky enough to be in his class and those who wished they were. Affectionately known as Smithy, he brought a distinctive personality and energy to Mathematics and Accounts lessons, making the subjects enjoyable. His famous Mathematics marathons were another highlight, giving students plenty to remember long after the lessons ended.

8. Reverend Pointsette’s prayers

Reverend Pointsette’s devotions could feel especially long when students had to stand in the blazing sun. Some would deliberately arrive late in the hope of missing part of the session, while her voice coming over the speaker in the afternoon was often met with collective sighs across the school. Those prayers may not have been everyone’s favourite part of the day then, but their value is something many have come to appreciate with time.

9. The in-school vendors

Every form seemed to have its own go-to vendor, making it easy to find a snack or treat after lunch. But the offerings went well beyond food. From haberdashery items and CDs to clothing, these enterprising young women catered to a variety of student needs. Even better, some have since registered their businesses and are thriving in their entrepreneurial ventures, showing that the hustle extended well beyond the school gates.

10. Mrs Keane-Dawes

Another long-serving principal, Mrs Keane-Dawes made it her duty to monitor the school gates in the mornings, earning her reputation as the school’s very own gate police. Strict but understanding, she commanded respect while ensuring students remained disciplined and focused. Her firm approach, balanced with compassion, helped create an environment in which students were encouraged to excel.

11. The standpipe

The standpipe, originally used to water the school grounds, often became a busy wash-up station shortly before the morning bell. Girls would gather to wash their faces and freshen up, with cake soap and soap dishes in abundance. With just 15 minutes to go before classes, the area could become quite crowded as everyone tried to get ready in time for the school day.

– Carlysia Ramdeen