Firbank was established in 1909 as a day and boarding school, by the Anglican Archbishop of Melbourne, Henry Lowther Clarke who was left a legacy for ‘educational purposes’. He purchased the property, Gawsworth, which stretched between Outer and Middle Crescents and established a school for girls. He named the school after his birthplace in Westmorland, England. He gave the School his crest as Archbishop and chose the motto, Vincit qui se vincit (She conquers who conquers herself). As enrolments grew, under the leadership of Miss Maud Cameron, who was Headmistress for 43 years, further land was purchased, including the Pen-y-bryn estate and Atherstone in Sandringham.

Founded on Christian principles, Firbank has always maintained a strong connection with St Andrew’s Anglican Church, Brighton where formal school services are held

Firbank has built a reputation as one of Australia’s leading private schools. Incorporating Sandringham House, a co-educational primary school and Turner House, a primary school for girls, and the Senior School (girls only, Years 7-12), the School provides an outstanding learning environment for over 1100 students from across Melbourne, interstate and overseas.