Charles John Prescott

Charles John Prescott (9 June 1857 – 12 June 1946) was an English born Australian army chaplain, Methodist minister and headmaster.

Prescott was born in Bridport, Dorset, the eldest child of a Wesleyan clergyman. Educated at Kingswood School, Bath, he attended Worcester College, Oxford and graduated BA in 1880 and MA in 1893. He began theological studies in Birmingham but on his marriage in 1882 migrated to Sydney to improve his wife's health.

On arrival in Australia, Prescott was appointed to Parramatta Wesleyan Circuit and as a part-time tutor at the provisional theological institute. In 1886, he was ordained as a minister and became the founding president and headmaster of the Wesleyan Ladies' College, Burwood. (now MLC School). He introduced challenging academic studies for girls, as well as music and competitive games. In time ex-pupils excelled at the University of Sydney, enhancing the college's reputation. He also established a co-educational kindergarten, probably the first in the Australia. MLC School was given colours, crest, motto, uniform, magazine and other traditions from English public schools. He was greatly helped by his wife, Annie, who took charge of the domestic arrangements and music. In 1900 he moved to Newington College, Stanmore, as president and headmaster, the first to hold dual office. He fostered the ideal of a balanced liberal education within a Christian environment, with an emphasis on mathematics and classical studies. Other emphases were correct English, team games, and commitment to 'family, school, King and God'. He retired from Newington in 1931 after a record term. Prescott House, one of the eight Houses within the College, was named after Prescott as was Prescott Hall. Prescott Hall is often used as the venue where the College hosts important school events such as end of Season dinners and award nights.

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