Only one school from Canberra was honoured as a finalist for the Australian Education Awards in 2024
Posted on
This year, Canberra Girls Grammar School (CGGS) was recognised as an Excellence Awardee and Finalist for Primary School of the Year (Non-Government) in the Australian Education Awards – and you’ll get the chance to see academic excellence in action for yourself at their next Open Day on Thursday 30 May.
As the only ACT awardee, it’s exciting news for this Canberra institution. Deputy Principal and Head of Junior School at CGGS, Mr Peter McDonald says he was not surprised.
“This award is a direct reflection of the lifelong impact our Junior School has on our students with our outstanding literacy and numeracy programs, our exemplary approach to the delivery of the International Baccalaureate (IB) Primary Years Programme (PYP) and our enriching Signature Programs. It shows a CGGS primary education is really the best start possible,” says Peter.
The annual awards recognise top-performing schools in Australia across a number of categories, highlighting their outstanding achievements and transformative educational experiences.
“While academic excellence is a core pillar of the CGGS student journey, we value a holistic approach to learning,” explains Terrie Jones, Principal of CGGS. “The emphasis is on a balanced, broad-based education in a culture that celebrates authenticity and originality. With our strengths-based approaches to teaching, learning and caring—both in the classroom and beyond—we are creating a world where personal excellence, independence and purpose matter.”
“To be recognised as an Excellence Awardee and Finalist is wonderful recognition of the engaged experience Mr Peter McDonald and the Junior School staff create for our youngest learners.”
As an International Baccalaureate (IB) World School, international-mindedness and a commitment to inclusion and diversity are core components of the awarded curriculum at the CGGS Junior School with the framework of the Primary Years Programme (PYP) and Middle Years Programme (MYP) enabling a consistently rigorous and supportive arc of learning.
“Our students are encouraged to purposefully engage with their learning and to strive for their personal best,” says Peter. “The PYP challenges them to think critically, nurtures curiosity and compassion and motivates children to engage with big ideas as they shape their place at the School and the world beyond. We see this translate in a meaningful, positive way across their education and their approach to their peer relationships and self-identity, ensuring each student believes in their potential and ability.”
As a Candidate school to deliver the continuum framework of the PYP, MYP and IB Diploma Programme (IBDP), commencing at the CGGS Junior School sets students on a path of continuous learning and care, providing a seamless transition into the Senior School when the time comes.
“Students from the Junior School are at a significant advantage before they even set foot on the Senior School campus—the MYP commences in Year 6 at CGGS, which bridges the gap between high school, makes for a seamless transition, and empowers students with the confidence and self-esteem to boldly take on any challenge.”
Of course, CGGS knows there’s far more to a well-rounded school than just academic rigor. To complement learning in the classroom, the school’s bespoke Wellbeing and Signature Programs inspire respect, empathy and kindness and take students on a reflective journey of personal growth, fostering self-awareness and resilience.
“Our research-driven Signature Programs are targeted, age-appropriate programs that foster interdisciplinary skills that a student carries with them for life,” says Tara Bourne, Director of Student Care and Experience at the Junior School. “Embedded across our academic and pastoral curriculum, they provide a common language for students and staff and assist our young learners on their journey of growth and success.”
CGGS will find out if they take home the Australian Education Award for Primary School of the Year (Non-Government) in August. In the meantime, you can see what’s possible for your child at their Open Day on Thursday 30 May.
Find out more and book now at cggs.act.edu.au/openday
