Ascham’s archives office is situated in the school grounds in the historic Octagon building.  Many photos and memorabilia have been donated to the school which document the school’s history.  Boarding, which continues as an important part of the school, was begun by Miss Wallis who aimed for what she described as “a high standard of scholastic thoroughness”.  Nine years after the school’s founding, an Ascham student won the Fairfax prize for the top girl in the state entering Sydney University.  The tradition has continued throughout the decades, with consistently outstanding exam results. From its earliest days too, Ascham girls had daily exercises and sport; there are records of swimming, rowing, cricket, basketball and athletics before 1905.

The school motto Vi et Animo - with heart and soul - offers inspirational words for Ascham girls to live by.  The school crest was developed in 1911 by Ascham art teacher, Mr Albert Collins.  Symbols on the crest were explained in the school’s Charivari magazine in December 1911: the dolphins symbolise energy, persistence and the ability to swim against, as well as with, the tide; the wings suggest aspiration and ambition; the lamp and book represent learning; and the combination of the acorn and eucalyptus seed mark the historical union of Britain and Australia.

Ascham’s rich traditions continue today as the school and its community go from strength to strength.