What starting Kindy at Canberra Girls Grammar School looks like

Posted on 25 April, 2024

Where to send your child for Kindergarten is an important question that every parent must consider.

To help inform this decision, Canberra Girls Grammar School (CGGS) is holding a Junior School Open Morning on Wednesday 8 May, which allows parents and carers to see first-hand the school’s legacy of educational excellence, connection and opportunity.

Enrolling in Kindergarten at CGGS secures your child’s place throughout their schooling, with a place at the School guaranteed right through to Year 12 graduation.

“Starting primary school is much like making a good first impression—it only happens once,” explains CGGS Deputy Principal, Head of Junior School and ELC Mr Peter McDonald.

“At CGGS we know the importance of a successful start to school—we have dedicated teachers, support educators, and strategies in place to make sure that Kindergarten and starting school is a positive experience for both our students and parents. Our curriculum in Kindy sets our students on a clear, confident pathway towards a lifelong passion for learning.”

Tara Bourne, the Director of Student Care and Experience at the Junior School and a recent recipient of The Educator Australia’s Rising Star award, recognises the significance of nurturing a young child’s potential.

“At this age a child’s brain learns, grows, and develops at an astonishing pace as they make sense of the world. At CGGS we hold an unwavering belief in this potential. Our experienced teachers harness the power and possibility of this development, knowing that consistent and targeted early literacy and numeracy are the cornerstones of successful schooling—and for life beyond the classroom.”

Ms Alex Galland, the Director of Learning and Innovation at the Junior School has responsibility for ensuring the Junior School’s teaching and learning programs are rigorous and supportive of a diverse range of learners.

“The evidence-based Kindy learning program at CGGS consists of clear and explicit instruction in English and Mathematics. Foundational English and Mathematics are taught for extended and uninterrupted periods of time every day. Individual growth and student success are monitored closely ensuring that no learner misses the targeted support or extension they need to achieve their personal best.”

There are also programs to ensure your child feels welcomed, happy and settled in this next stage of their life. Kindy students at CGGS benefit from a comprehensive Pastoral Care program designed to empower them to feel assured, prepared, and eager to explore this exciting chapter.

Tara also highlights the unique learning experience at the CGGS Junior School. “Students benefit from calm and engaged classrooms, overseen by expert teachers who are highly committed and caring. With the support of onsite allied health professionals and the Inclusive Learning and Enrichment educators, teachers at CGGS craft a high-quality educational experience that stands the test of time.”

This program is extended to parents, who are provided opportunities to engage with experts in child wellbeing, learn how to support their child at home and are offered a bespoke suite of home learning resources through an extensive Parent Partnership Series.

“Our students and their families are at the heart of our school. Parents know that their child is well cared for and, most importantly, that they are happy,” says Peter.

“We deliver a holistic and highly intentional approach to teaching, learning and caring, where academic excellence goes hand-in-hand with the development of strong character, student care and wellbeing. We are renowned for our small class sizes, which enable our students to feel an authentic and real sense of belonging and connection to their teacher, classroom support educators and their peers.”