Welcome from the Principal

Welcome to Canberra Girls Grammar School (CGGS), a learning community that aims to provide an exceptional, holistic education with the intent to graduate learned and capable young women. A CGGS education is designed to equip students with the emotional intelligence, critical thinking and creative skills that will enable them to pursue lives of purpose and meaning in a complex and ever-changing world.

At CGGS, we believe that to the young, anything is possible and we are excited to discover the strengths and potential within each individual. Our students are encouraged to have high expectations for their learning and wellbeing, and our caring, expert staff are committed to supporting our children and young people to realise their personal goals and aspirations. From the ELC to Year 12, students learn not only to think but to think for themselves. Importantly, they learn a range of skills relating to ways of knowing, doing and being in the world.

Our School was established in 1926 when a small, enterprising group of women from the Community of the Sisters of the Church founded the first independent school in Canberra. From the first day, inspired by their founder Mother Emily Ayckbowm, the Sisters’ educational project was committed to valuing the whole child and finding the greatness within each person. Ninety-six years on, the School’s tripartite focus on scholastic learning, student wellbeing and co-curricular endeavour enables our students to find and hone their individual gifts, passions and interests.

It is from the example of the Sisters’ lives that we have distilled our four core values of integrity, courage, respect and inclusion, and these serve as authentic touchstones for our way of being as individuals, and as a school community.

I look forward to meeting your family and invite you to learn more about Canberra Girls Grammar School, with the hope that you will join us as partners in your child’s educational journey.


Terrie Jones

Principal