[1] The school regards its founder as being the Very Reverend Canon Constant Van Crombrugghe, who founded the Congregation of the Daughters of Mary and Joseph in Belgium in 1817.

At the start of its history, the school's motto was Timpore in Silvam (in time a forest) but after it became an established place of learning it was changed to Laborare est Orare (to work is to pray).

Girls wanting to attend the school are admitted using a religious observation points system, which is intended to give priority to candidates who are seen as the most devout, and to families who are most active in the church.

Prior to the year 2000 most of these schools admitted a percentage of their pupils based on ability, aptitude or through an interview process.

Inter-house competitions and events take place throughout the year, culminating at the annual summer Sports Day.