A new chapter for Canberra Girls Grammar School

Posted on 7 March, 2023

With a new principal, expanded programs and a steady rise in enrolments, 2023 is set to be an exciting new chapter for Canberra Girls Grammar School.

“Whether it’s the playground or drop off, there’s a real sense of energy and certainty at the school at the moment,” says Deputy Principal and head of Junior School Peter McDonald.

“Right from the Early Learning Centre to Year 12, there’s a feeling that something great is happening.”

The buzz is fuelled by the recent appointment of principal Terrie Jones, who has years of experience at some of Australia’s most renowned schools including St Michael’s Grammar School in Melbourne, Ravenswood School for Girls, Abbotsleigh and Pymble Ladies’ College in Sydney.

Since joining the school in October, Terrie says she has “already settled in” to the new role.

“I think starting in October feels like you’re stepping into a river at full capacity, but it’s also a great time to start as I was able to experience the various events that culminate within a school year,” Terrie says.

“The entire community has been incredibly welcoming. It’s been a wonderful start.”

Terrie Jones.

Through her experience, Terrie brings a deep understanding of the philosophy at the heart of CGGS: that for young people, girls and women, anything is possible.

“It’s a great school and has such a proud history of empowering young people to be their very best selves,” she says.

“It’s not just about being your best self for yourself, but to serve your community and contribute. I’ve already been really impressed with the Grammarians I’ve met and their positive contribution to the world.”

Terrie says she is looking forward to welcoming families to the school’s upcoming Open Day on 16 March, which is a chance to learn about the school’s curriculum and signature programs, meet staff and students, and tour both the Junior Campus, which runs from ELC–Year 6, and the Senior Campus, which runs from Years 7–12 (enrolments are available for boys from ELC—Year 3).

“It’s really one of those places you have to come and see in person,” Terrie says.

“There’s something special about witnessing the strength of the students’ relationships across the campuses. Along with this is the Incredible strength of the staff. I’ve worked at many schools and the staff at CGGS really do go the extra mile.”

The tours on Open Day will be led by CGGS students, who Terrie believes will provide a unique insight into the school.

“We want families to have an authentic experience at the school, hearing directly from students gives a real insight into how the school operates and the student experience of life on campus,, which is really important,” she says.

“I think it’s a marvellous thing when you see young people who want to talk about their school.”

One of the students leading the tours is Year 12 student Abbey Davis.

Abbey says the school has provided “incredible” preparation for the year ahead and beyond.

“I find this school encourages you to try everything, and it has really made me look forward to going to school every day,” she says.

“Over the years I have had so many opportunities, from being House Captain, rowing, debating, being on the Senior Council or joining the Podium Program as a member of the National snow sports team. It’s been a really supportive community.”

Abbey Davis, pictured centre, with her rowing team mates.

After Year 12, Abbey wants to pursue a degree in medical science.

She says the school’s custom pastoral program, designed to support the social and emotional development of students to complement their academic pursuits, has been key in feeling confident about “what comes next.”

“We have a marvellous Careers Counsellor, Dr DIetrichwho we see every two weeks, and our programs across the school also help us with general life skills. I definitely feel excited for what’s ahead.”

Peter says one clear factor setting the school apart is its co-curricular program, which includes everything from art, sports, ballet, chess, cooking, debating, language lessons and tae-kwon-do.

“Whatever their interest, they will find it here,” he says.

Though the last few years were difficult across Australia’s education sector due to COVID-19 restrictions, Peter says the school continued to flourish.

“During that time we were nominated for independent primary school of the year, our academic results continued to grow, and our pastoral care programs expanded. We also have had a huge demand for enrolments, with people seeking extra care and more opportunities. So as challenging as that period was, we continued to flourish and meet the needs of each student,” he says.

Deputy Principal and head of Junior School Peter McDonald.

Peter says choosing a school is one of the most important decisions to make, and he hopes the Open Day will be helpful for people mulling over whether CGGS is the “right place.”

“What draws people here and makes them stay is that it is not just hopeful, but hope filled,” he says.

“There’s something about the students here that makes the school community and staff want to be better. Our community encourages you to be remarkable, that anything is possible, and I really believe that’s the feeling you get when you walk through the hallways.”