An inspired pathway to senior school, and beyond
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Canberra Girls Grammar School (CCGS) will soon celebrate a century of inspired learning.
This remarkable milestone, coupled with the School’s rich history of tradition, has set strong foundations from which CGGS has developed and refined innovative educational approaches, equipping and inspiring its graduates to meet the opportunities and challenges of today and tomorrow.
“The School is enriched by its diverse community and a spirit of ‘anything is possible’ – motivating each student to play to their strengths and challenge themselves to become capable, independent and resilient learners and good humans,” says Terrie Jones, Principal.
Key to this – and unique to CGGS – is the suite of Signature Programs, specialised initiatives that begin in Year 3 to form the foundations for inquisitive, compassionate and clearsighted senior students.
Embedded in the academic, co-curricular and pastoral domains, the programs empower students to build personal capacity, relationships and essential skills in preparation for the next stage of their educational journey.
By the time a student reaches Year 10, they are focused and confident to consider career ambitions, the specific expertise required by different pathways and the crucial elements of a healthy, balanced life.
The Aspire program: dedicated to Year 10
At CGGS Year 10 students embark on a three-year journey to graduation. In contrast to the college approach, at CGGS Year 10 is recognised as a pivotal early entry point, with focused activity created to springboard students into the senior years.
The foundation is the ambitious Aspire program, designed to encourage students to be self-aware and reflective, deepening their sense of belonging, igniting their career aspirations and honing each young woman’s leadership acuity.
The program allows time and space in the timetable for all Year 10 students to collaborate with their dedicated Aspire teacher. Together they consider and concentrate on individual skills, passions and interests for a holistic view of life after CGGS. Crucial knowledge is built around the future of work, the evolution of careers and a robust understanding of skills and attributes each student needs to thrive in a future of their own design.
Essential program activities include:
- strengths and personal interests identification
- career research, report and pathways
- subject selection interviews with senior staff
- experience BSS and IB day
- creation of a personal ePortfolio
- Careers Connections breakfasts with Alumnae
- mentoring
- study skills
- preliminary studies in certain subjects
- retreat and leadership development in Years 10–12
- active community service
- work experience
“The result is a CGGS graduate that is university or work ready and importantly, equipped for a purposeful life,”” says Tara Dunstall, Deputy Principal, Head of Senior School. “We now see that universities are offering early entry based on a student’s complete profile at the end of Year 11. The Aspire program draws on all facets to demonstrate evidence of aptitude and engagement, as well as spirit and character.”
“The Aspire program supports our Year 10 students to holistically understand their place in the world, wherever their path takes them.”
“I encourage families to give their daughters a head start by enrolling in Year 10 at CGGS, and not to wait until the usual Year 11 entry point,” adds Tara.
“This early focus provides an extra year of collective commitment and bespoke planning, so that every student hits the ground running for Year 11, and beyond. I welcome you to talk to us regarding our Year 10 positions available for 2025 and beyond.”
See firsthand the benefits of joining CGGS in Year 10 by exploring the Senior School campus, world-class curriculum and Signature Programs at the CGGS Senior School Open Evening on Monday 4 November.
Spaces are limited, register now online.
