VALETE 23
Anne Robinson
Anne Ruprecht Miss Ruprecht taught at St Catherine’s from 1956 to 1973, but her relationship with the school community was maintained through regular appearance at school reunions for those students she had taught. She is fondly remembered by students of the mid-1950s through to the 1970s with much respect, admiration and gratitude. Lyndall Scott (Jarrett, STC1967) was a member of the first Year 12 class to sit the HSC and recalled the powerful influence that Miss Ruprecht had on her studies. Lyndall wrote that of the challenge of teaching her students a new Modern History course, “Miss Ruprecht did not let us down. She was kind, but firm. We learned to discuss issues, to use original documents and to write good essays. We were empowered to have and share opinions. She empowered me to understand that history was about opinions, actions, bad politics, mistakes, heroes and villains. And that history is written by winners and losers, professionals and amateurs.”
Anne’s death was shared on the school’s social media pages. Here is a collection of our school community’s comments which reinforce the effect that she had on a generation of students and staff: “One of the best teachers I had. Mrs Robinson was one of those teachers who believed in her students, and we all felt it. RIP Mrs Robinson! We will forever ‘do our best and no less’.” – Kelso Oo (STC2001) Anne cherished people, seeing possibilities and patiently encouraging. Imbued with faith and humble spirit, she was a remarkable person. She influenced me as a leader and a parent — I always slowed down to reflect walking with her, listening, and never failing to catch the gentle humour. Vale Anne.” – Catherine Misson Former St Catherine’s Deputy “What a legacy Mrs Robinson leaves behind. She taught me in 1996 and 1997. I still remember her classes so well. ‘Do your best and no less’ is etched into my brain and all my classmates.” – Elaine Fowler (STC2006) When Anne retired in 2012, Denice Scala wrote this prayer for her: Dear Lord In every breath In every act of kindness In every way Anne is your servant We thank you for her. Her unconditional love for all Her enormous heart Her effervescence that light up a room Anne embodies your love We thank you for her. In times of need In times of joy In times of sorry In times of great happiness
A teacher and Deputy of the Junior School from 1980-2012, Anne was known as a leader who radiated kindness and care. She knew every child and every family that she cared for, and was equally as compassionate with her staff, taking care of them with a keen alertness to their needs. She sadly passed away on 3 September 2025. Reflecting on Anne’s life, former Head of Junior School Denice Scala said that “Anne didn’t just live by the golden rule of ‘treating others as you would like to be treated’, but instead set a new ‘Platinum Plus’ benchmark because, in everything, in every way, and at all times, she put others before herself.”
Ivy Luscombe
Former Home Economics teacher, Mrs Ivy Luscombe, died in July 2026. Ivy taught at St Catherine’s from 1962 to 1982 and was instrumental in the development and design of the Home Science Centre which was opened in 1977. Ivy’s two daughters and granddaughter also attended St Catherine’s - Betty (STC 1964), Desley (STC 1969) and Catherine (STC 1996).
Anne is always there We thank you for her. The light that shines in her Is your gift to us and especially to St Catherine’s The School has been blessed to know and share Your gracious love through her Bless her Lord Bless her kindly. Amen.
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