Joan was the much-loved and revered 7th Principal of PLC from 1969-1985. During this time, she led the College with vision, dignity and compassion, inspiring generations of young women and staff through her humility, wisdom and total commitment to providing the best education for the students in her care. 

Joan was formerly a student at PLC, graduating in 1943, and she continued the College’s strong commitment to increasing the range of educational opportunities available for young women.

She believed in a fully rounded, stimulating education and was a highly respected and nationally acknowledged educator for her progressive attitudes to education. She embraced new trends and inspired her staff to expand their expertise and fulfil their potential as significant educators.

Joan believed strongly in the value of international exchanges and travel for giving students and staff increased global understanding and compassion. Her deep Christian faith included a respect for all religious traditions and gave her strength for the challenges she encountered during her career.

Her genuine and sincere respect for the individual was underpinned by her warmth and kindness. Students felt known by her personally and were disciplined when necessary, with understanding and fairness. Joan, or ‘Monty’, as she was affectionally known, was always a great encourager, helping girls to reach their full potential.

During her long and influential career, Joan was recognised as a significant leader and was a board member of many prestigious educational and medical institutions and professional organisations. She was appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire in 1976 for her services to education and became a Member of the Order of Australia in 1986. She was placed on the Victorian Honour Roll of Women Inductees in 2004.

After her retirement in 1985, there was a great outpouring of love and gratitude for all she had contributed to PLC and the wider community as a legendary educator and leader.

It was with profound sadness that PLC learnt of the passing of Miss Joan Montgomery AM OBE on 5 February 2024. Her past students, forging new paths as women in many different fields throughout the world, are her enormous legacy.

On 2 March, 2024, the PLC community gathered to honour and celebrate the life of Miss Joan Montgomery AM OBE in a special memorial service which can be viewed below.