History

The choice of Her Majesty's name would ensure continued government support while at the same time it would be a tangible symbol of the chiefs' unequivocal loyalty to the British Crown.

In keeping with education expectations of the time and experience and beliefs of the British administrators in the virtues of boarding institutions, the new school was modeled on the English public school.

To add to its special character, the school was to have as its Principal an Oxford or Cambridge graduate.

Adaptability is an essential quality in a fast growing institution and within 20 years of its establishment admission to QVS was opened to all Fijian boys of proven academic ability.

Today, both chiefly and ordinary Fijian boys mingle and work together at Matavatucou in a way that prepares them for shared and cooperative adult responsibilities.

In addition, QVS also admitted students from other British territories in the Pacific, notably the Solomon Islands and Gilbert (Kiribati) and Ellice (Tuvalu) and New Hebridies (Vanuatu) and thus began building the foundation of many lasting friendships between Pacific people who are now leaders in their own societies.

Queen Victoria School, as a result of the expressed wish of the Fijian chiefs, began as a unique institution for the sons of Chiefs. As a pioneer in Fijian education it was often identified with the future hopes and aspirations of Fijians.

Admission to QVS was highly competitive and to have been educated at the school was a mark of achievement which guaranteed work in the civil service.