There’s always a special energy at the start of a school year. Well rested, having spent time with family and friends over the long summer break, there’s not only the excitement – perhaps best encapsulated by the first-day joy of Preppies beginning their “big school” journey – but also that feeling of a fresh start; a time to set new goals, form new habits, and embrace new challenges. We’re delighted to welcome a number of key new staff as well, and are looking forward to their expertise and energy as they commence their journey with us.
In the Co-curricular space, it is my pleasure to announce the appointment of Mr Joel Copeland as Director (Co-curricular). We also welcome three key staff. Mrs Tamara Phelps, our Head of Sport, Mr Tim Norman, our Acting Dean of Music, and Mrs Jodie Hutchinson, our Defence School Mentor.
We are delighted to welcome a number of new staff to our Boarding House.
Mrs Kathy Hamilton joins us as Deputy Head of Boarding, and has an extensive background in Boarding leadership, with a special interest in trauma informed practice and Indigenous students in Residential communities. Coming from the Northern Territory, Kathy is looking forward to winters below 20 degrees and the opportunity to see snow.
Ms Corinna Unger, Ms Emily Anderson and Ms Stephanie Burgess join us as Boarding Supervisors. Corrinna also undertakes the role of Boarding House Administration (part time), while Emily and Stephanie support our Co-curricular program in addition to their boarding duties. Stephanie is currently coaching our Year 5 and 6 rowers, and Emily is looking forward to working with our debating teams.
Please join me in making these new members of our community welcome as you meet them across the term.
Co-curricular Update
The co-curricular program is an integral part of the educational experience at Canberra Girls Grammar School (CGGS) and includes all activities that support, enhance, and complement the formal academic curriculum. It is based on the philosophy that personal growth occurs when students and staff can access a broad range of experiences. Success in future studies, employment, and life itself can result for those who have a balanced approach to work and broader social commitments, and in particular for those who have developed their capacity to work effectively with others.
Here at CGGS, we encourage our students to extend and explore their interests and passions through a variety of co-curricular activities. These include sport, music, service, debating, defence, dance, public speaking, clubs and activities, indigenous activities, travel, and the performing arts. These programs encourage participation, teamwork, self-confidence, and critical and creative thinking skills. The leadership roles assumed by our students in many of these activities also contributes to their academic success and significant personal development.
Our students continue to grow and flourish through our newly launched Dance Company, and we’re excited to continue the development of The House – Women in Politics and Government program. Our wonderful clubs and activities provide an opportunity for every student to continue their holistic development whilst having fun and building new friendships across all year levels.
We are currently finalising groups for our Junior School co-curricular programs, which will commence in week 3 this term. A virtual co-curricular expo for Senior School students will be held on our Agora platform on Monday 7 February, and will provide all students the opportunity to explore the many co-curricular programs on offer through the Senior School. Following the Virtual Expo, Senior School students will have the opportunity to sign up for co-curricular programs through Agora. The majority of our co-curricular programs will then commence in week 3. Parents will also have access to the co-curricular pages through the refreshed Agora platform and I would encourage you to find some time to explore the opportunities available to our Junior and Senior School students. If you do require more information about a co-curricular sport or activity, please contact the relevant staff member listed on these pages.
Our co-curricular program offers students the opportunity to explore and cultivate their passions and interests, to be inspired to discover their potential, to showcase their talents and develop their leadership skills, self-esteem and pride and I look forward to sharing in many of these rich experiences with our students and families as we move through the year.
Ms Ellena Papas
Executive Director (Operations)
Mr Joel Copeland
Director (Co-curricular)