Jan Bavinton (1937-1989) joined Carey in 1966 as Laboratory Manager. She developed laboratory-based science courses for junior secondary students and revised the practical components of senior science courses.

Bavinton established systems and procedures that became the basis for later laboratory development at Carey. She also designed laboratory facilities that integrated new equipment with existing resources for specific educational purposes.

In late 1988, Bavinton was involved in planning a new Year 8 laboratory. The laboratory opened in 1989, although she died before its completion.

Bavinton served on the Governing Council of the Victorian Association of Teachers in Independent Schools (VATIS). She contributed to the establishment of an award for support staff in independent schools. In 1989, VATIS established the Jan Bavinton Memorial Award to support ancillary staff undertaking research and developing innovative projects.

Bavinton died in February 1989, aged 51.