THE CO-CURRICULAR EXPERIENCE
THE CO-CURRICULAR EXPERIENCE
We acknowledge the Ngunnawal and Ngambri peoples as the traditional keepers of the land on which we gather. We are inspired by their wisdom, spirituality and experience. We particularly acknowledge the wise Indigenous women who have shared language, country and culture. We commit ourselves to actively work alongside them for reconciliation and justice.
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Contents Our School
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Cygnus at CGGS: 100+ co-curricular opportunities
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A message from the Principal
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The power of your possible: Pillars of opportunity
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Academic Enrichment
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Clubs and Activities
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Debating and Public Speaking
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Experiential and Outdoor Education
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Performing Arts
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Service Learning
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Sport
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The House: Women leading in the world
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The Music Academy
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THE CO-CURRICULAR EXPERIENCE
The power of your possible.
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Introducing Canberra Girls Grammar School
Discover a 100-year legacy of educational excellence, connection and opportunity at Canberra Girls Grammar School (CGGS). CGGS is an independent, non-selective Anglican school. For a century, generations of students from across the globe have experienced an expansive, holistic education. Founded in 1926, the Anglican Community of the Sisters of the Church opened the doors with just 10 students. Established by trail-blazing women, the Sisters’ spirit of fearless leadership, visionary thinking, unwavering resilience and a deep passion for learning lives on. Located in the heart of the nation’s capital, and now spanning three campuses, CGGS provides a world-class educational and co-curricular offering. Perfectly positioned at mid-sized with 1300+ students, the School is co-educational from Early Learning to Year 3, then female-focused through to Year 12. CGGS values the whole child—all are encouraged to be involved in a range of pursuits in and beyond the classroom. Students have many opportunities to nurture existing talents, discover new interests and develop their skills to become the well-rounded, contributing, informed young people that the world needs. CGGS is recognised as award-winning and with a reputation for excellence in academic outcomes, consistently resulting in exemplary NAPLAN, BSSS and IBDP scores. The School is an International Baccalaureate (IB) World School and Canberra’s first and only authorised continuum school, offering the Primary Years Programme (PYP), Middle Years Programme (MYP) and Diploma Programme (DP) across Kindergarten to Year 12, with a choice between the ACT BSSS and IB Diploma. At CGGS you will evolve into somebody that exceeds even your own expectations.
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THE CO-CURRICULAR EXPERIENCE
Cygnus at CGGS: 100+ co-curricular opportunities
Integral to the educational experience at CGGS is Cygnus. Cygnus at CGGS is our comprehensive co-curricular offering, designed to amplify and extend the rich learning that takes place in the CGGS academic and pastoral care programs. Experience a constellation of programs and activities; Cygnus at CGGS encourages you to lean into your strengths, challenge yourself and thrive. It makes way for all to contribute, engage, improve and excel, by fostering strong peer group interactions and a sense of belonging. Whether a complete novice or highly accomplished, Cygnus at CGGS will inspire you to try something new, unlock a natural talent, hone a skill, give back, achieve excellence, discover your purpose and embrace your passion. Beyond the curriculum is a world of opportunities waiting for you. See what’s on offer at CGGS to develop the mind, body and spirit of every learner.
A place of limitless possibilities, beyond the classroom—participate, serve, play, perform and pursue your passions. 6
CYGNUS: CO-CURRICULAR AT CGGS
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A message from the Principal
At CGGS we provide a world-class educational experience and recognise that learning happens both within and beyond the classroom. Our students learn in ensembles, on the sports field, hiking in the mountains, spotlit on stage, serving our community and in an array of enrichment opportunities. All CGGS students have access to an extensive offering of co-curricular choices for a well-rounded experience. The scope of Cygnus at CGGS spans more than 100 options, ensuring there is something for every student, at every level.
Participating in co-curricular opportunities complements academic study—it is a dedicated time to develop important teamwork, confidence, creativity, leadership and problem-solving skills, all while socialising with peers. Cygnus at CGGS also supports students to form views about a broad range of social and environmental issues and builds empathy, awareness and connection.
Symbolic of the white swans on our School crest and the constellation of stars in the night sky, Cygnus at CGGS is an overarching framework that provides a comprehensive program of high-quality activities to personalise and enrich the learning experience.
Cygnus at CGGS supports our holistic educational philosophy which focuses on the development of well-rounded and accomplished children and young people. As a mid-sized school, each and every student has an equal opportunity to get involved, improve and become their best selves.
We enthusiastically encourage students to be guided by their interests, focus on their strengths and foster their passions. Cygnus at CGGS is all about getting involved, discovering unique talents, trying something new, improving and growing, serving for the greater good and—importantly—having fun.
I invite you to explore the possibilities and dive into Cygnus at CGGS. Terrie Jones Principal
“The scope of Cygnus at CGGS spans 100+ options, ensuring there is something for every student, at every level.” 9
PILLARS OF OPPORTUNITY
Academic Enrichment
Clubs and Activities
Debating and Public Speaking
Experiential and Outdoor Learning
Performing Arts
Service Learning
Sport
The House: Women leading in the world
The Music Academy
The power of your possible.
Embrace new opportunities, extend yourself and explore the world through your passions and interests. Cygnus at CGGS nurtures the whole person and offers ways for you to realise your potential and foster essential life skills.
Enrich
Gain
Practise
Participate
Share
Accelerate
your wellbeing and academic success by diversifying your efforts beyond the classroom.
and take part regardless of your skill level, to build confidence, resilience, empathy and creativity.
Strengthen
social interaction across year groups to foster a culture of connection and community.
your passions with like-minded people for a true sense of belonging and to feel truly seen.
Dare
your integrity, grit, determination and capacity for selfmanagement.
to be adventurous and bold to discover your capabilities and capacity as you showcase your talents.
Cultivate
Compete
your social conscience through teamwork, leadership, contribution and service learning.
to test your personal bests, measure against external benchmarks, teams and other students to improve and grow.
Discover more at: cggs.act.edu.au/cygnus
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in specialised settings and be guided by qualified coaches to hone your skills.
the pathways to excellence and representative honours via a formal framework of competitive opportunities.
THE CO-CURRICULAR EXPERIENCE
Learn beyon classr
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ning nd the room
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THE CO-CURRICULAR EXPERIENCE
Academic Enrichment Enhanced learning options provide further opportunities to learn beyond the standard academic curriculum, or to gain support to improve and develop.
Academic competitions
The Evening Study Program
Designed to stimulate and challenge agile, curious minds, the annual calendar of competitions are rigorous and encourage students to draw on an extensive knowledge base and skill set. Students work individually or in teams to extend their knowledge and skills in critical thinking, collaboration and communication, competing against fellow schools locally, nationally and possibly globally.
Engage in supervised study after-hours on-campus. This offering provides students in Years 8–12 with a supportive, focused environment to complete course work, get a head-start on assessment tasks and prepare for key exams. Completing homework and study in a dedicated and guided environment teaches students improved study habits, concentration and self-discipline. Through the Evening Study Program, students access additional academic resources and are taught how to become self-directed, independent learners, to improve their time management and study skills at home.
• Australian Mathematics Competition (AMC) (Y3–12) • Australian Maths Trust Challenge (Y3–6) • Bebras Computational Thinking Challenge (Y3–6) • da Vinci Decathlon (Y5–10)
Hosted by a dedicated Evening Studies Coordinator and assisted by study supervisors, the program is held in the Senior School Library on Monday and Wednesday evenings across each term from 5:30– 8:30pm.
• Engineering challenge (Y10) • Ethics Olympiad (Y5–12) • The GATEWays Challenge (Y3–6)
Students also enjoy a nutritious dinner in the Boarding House at 6:30pm. There is a cost to participate in the program and students are able to attend on one or both nights each week for a term.
• International Competitions and Assessment for School (ICAS) (Y2–12) • Kid Lit Quiz (Y5–6) • Readers Cup (Y5–6) • Science and Maths Olympiads (Y7–12)
Other options are available to ensure our students’ learning is well supported:
• STEM challenge (Y5–10)
• Homework Helper (Y3–6)
• Tournament of Minds (Y5–6)
• Peer Tutoring by Senior Students (Senior School only)
• Write a Book in a Day (Y6–12)
• Senior School Tutoring programs: English, Math, Science (Y7–12). Note: no additional cost.
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“Focusing on a competition has really challenged me to test my knowledge and prepare.”
Discover more at: cggs.act.edu.au/academic-enrichment
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Clubs and Activities Our vibrant Clubs and Activities program adds an extra level of learning and connection to life at CGGS. Students engage with areas of interest, that drive new talents and collaborate with peers on shared initiatives and projects. Exploring strengths and passions contributes to personal, social and academic growth. Cultivate an interest, connect with like-minded peers or simply give it a go—our expansive program promises something for everyone, at any level. SENIOR SCHOOL:
JUNIOR SCHOOL:
• Art Club
• Art Club (Y3–6)
• Baking Club
• BoyZone (Y1–3)
• Book Club
• Bricks Challenge (K–Y2)
• Ceramics
• Chess Club (K–Y6)
• Chess Club
• Craft Club (Y3–6)
• Chinese Club
• Engineering and Robotics (Y3–6)
• Christian Connect Club
• Grammar Green Thumbs (Y3–6)
• Creative Writing Group
• Junior School Musical (Y4–6)
• German Club
• Kids Pantry Cooking (K–Y6)
• Melbourne Ave Tech Crew
• Mini Artists (K–Y2)
• NEXUS Club (Sci-Fi/Fantasy books and films)
• Mini Performers (K–Y3)
• STEM Club (Y4–7)
• Read, Write, Create (Y3–6) • STEM Club (Y5–6) • Strengthening our Senses (K–Y2)
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“I’ve found friends that love the same thing as me. We can’t wait to meet up each week. ”
Discover more at: cggs.act.edu.au/clubs-activities
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Debating and Public Speaking The Debating and Public Speaking program has a long and illustrious history at CGGS, resulting in generations of quick thinkers and articulate speakers. Debating and Public Speaking empowers students with confidence, critical thinking and effective communication skills. To gain the ability to gather, evaluate and present credible information is an invaluable skill that can be applied to all facets of life. Students learn to analyse issues from multiple perspectives and clearly articulate their thoughts and ideas. Each year students participate in inter-school debating and public speaking competitions. • ACTDU Junior, Senior and Advanced Premier (Y5–12) • The Australian Individual Debating and Public Speaking Championships (Y9–12) • Rostrum Public Speaking (Y5–6) • Speakfest (Y7–10) • The World Individual Debating and Public Speaking Championships (Y10–12) • The Bond University Mooting Competition (Y9–12) • UN Youth Model UN Competition (Y9–12) • The Canberra Girls Grammar Public Speaking Competition (Y7–8) • UN Youth Voice Competition (Y7–11)
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“To quickly and clearly get my message across is a great skill to acquire—and to keep working on. I get a lot from thinking through a view point and expressing it with conviction.”
Discover more at: cggs.act.edu.au/dps
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Experiential and Outdoor Education Experiencing education in an unfamiliar setting introduces a fresh and engaging dimension to learning. The highlight of a student’s year is often key times outside of the classroom—memorable moments and deeper connection occur at Camps, Retreats, Trips and Tours, making the extensive program an integral part of our educational journey.
Students gain an appreciation of the natural world and return home with profound personal insights, independence and a deeper understanding of their own capacity for action. EXCITING EXPERIENCES INCLUDE:
The CGGS calendar is filled with anticipated immersion experiences that support physical health, emotional intelligence, cultural awareness and social connection.
• Year level Camps and Retreats • Local, interstate and international Trips and Tours • Bronze, Silver and Gold Duke of Edinburgh Adventurous Journeys
Camp and Retreat program Students from Year 1 through to Year 9 take part in Camps, all programmed for the specific age and developmental stage of the cohort. Each Camp is designed to support the International Baccalaureate (IB) Learner Profile attributes, connect to our Signature Programs framework and meet the capabilities and cross curriculum priorities of the Australian Curriculum. In particular, CGGS focuses on personal and social capability, critical and creative thinking, ethical understanding, Aboriginal perspectives of land and country and sustainability. All students in Year 9 participate in The Duke of Edinburgh Bronze Award program—the first step towards obtaining the Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Award. Year 9 Camp is the ‘Adventurous Journey’ aspect of the program and all students are supported in their preparation and training for the three day hike/kayak. The Retreat program takes place in the Senior Phase of Learning for Years 10–12. Retreat formats encourage cohort cohesion, build leadership capacity and improve wellbeing strategies. • Year 10 Retreat: Stanwell Tops (mid coast NSW) • Year 11 Retreat: Kianinny (Tathra, south coast NSW) • Year 12 offsite programs: Yhuuramulum lakeside campus and a charity sleep out
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“…what made this experience truly remarkable was the element of risk. While I knew that our instructors were guiding us and ensuring our safety, the situations we encountered sparked genuine emotions. Overcoming those challenges instilled in me a newfound sense of confidence. I learned to trust my instincts, make decisions under pressure and adapt to changing circumstances.”
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Trips and Tours program Often planned years in advance, Trips and Tours are carefully organised to broaden the learning horizon. Students have the opportunity to expand their worldview by being immersed in a wide range of cultures, settings and on-the-ground activities.
• Be immersed in the Singapore Chinese Cultural Centre, take part in robotic and coding workshops, visit Malaysia for a trip to Legoland and experience Singapore’s Night Safari.
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Examples of some of the Trips and Tours planned for 2026–27 include:
France: Language and Cultural Immersion Tour (Y10–12):
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• Enhance language proficiency through real-world, authentic practice.
The Solomon Islands: Community Service Immersion (Y10–12):
• Discover the cultural and historic sites of Paris, Château and Gardens of Versailles and towns of Saint-Germain-en-Laye, Chartres, Strasbourg and Colmar.
• Co-educational service trip with Marist College Canberra. Italy: Latin and Ancient History Study Tour (Y10–12):
• Visit a French College in Nancy.
• Rome and the bay of Naples, Pompeii Herculaneum and the Amalfi Coast.
The Solomon Islands: Community Service Immersion (Y10–12):
• Engaging first-hand with Latin texts and ancient sites.
• Co-educational service trip with Marist College Canberra.
The Duke of Edinburgh Silver (Y9–12) and Gold (Y10–12) experiences:
The Duke of Edinburgh Silver (Y9–12) and Gold (Y10–12) experiences:
• Horse Riding (April).
• Horse Riding (April).
• Royal National Park Sydney (August).
• Royal National Park Sydney (August).
• Sailing (September/October).
• Sailing (September/October).
• Tasmania—alternates with New Zealand (December/January).
• Tasmania—alternates with New Zealand (December/January).
New Zealand: Sisters of the Church Music Festival:
Australia: Great Barrier Reef:
• A week-long gathering of student-musicians from the Emily Group of Schools for combined rehearsals and performances.
• Ecosystems at Risk exploration. USA: Basketball tour (Y7–11):
Singapore: STEM Tour (Y7–8):
• Improve Basketball skills by playing against teams in the USA.
• Explore cutting-edge STEM attractions, including interactive visits to the Art Science Museum, the Jewel Changi Airport and the Sustainable Singapore Gallery.
• Attend collegiate and professional sport games. • Enjoy cultural exchanges with host teams. • Discover iconic American cuisine and sights.
“This experience didn’t just stay on the trail. The skills I developed during the expedition, like effective communication and problemsolving, have proven invaluable in my academic pursuits and personal interactions…” Discover more at: cggs.act.edu.au/outdoors
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Performing Arts Dance Company Aspiring performers are provided a platform to develop technique, self-expression and confidence through movement. For all ages and abilities, a diverse range of dance styles are offered to encourage students to learn the skills for performance. Dance provides a creative outlet that motivates and inspires students to challenge themselves in a supportive and inclusive environment.
ANNUAL DANCE PERFORMANCES: • AusDance Youth Dance Festival (Y10) • Celebration Day (Y7–12) • CGGS Fete (K–Y12) • Lights Up! Concert (K–Y12)
The language of movement enables students to communicate meaning about themselves and the world in which they live, leading to social emotion growth and a sense of belonging. Learning dance choreography is a joyful and dynamic journey, empowering students to take risks, connect their body to music and improve coordination and perseverance.
• School Assemblies (Y7–12) • School Chapel (Y7–12) • Wakakirri National Story-Dance Festival (Y4) • Winter Wonders Concert (K–Y12) DANCE STYLES (K—Y12):
Students participate in a range of live performance opportunities including School concerts, eisteddfods and community events.
• Ballet • Contemporary • Hip Hop • Jazz
Student Assistant Teaching The Student Assistant Teaching program is for Senior students. Mentored by a Dance Coach and the Dance Company Coordinator, they learn skills in coaching, movement instruction, rehearsal and choreographic techniques to support students’ needs during dance lessons and events.
“I just love to dance and express myself to music. I’ve been improving all the time and am much more confident now.”
Discover more at: cggs.act.edu.au/dance
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Drama The Drama program benefits students far beyond the stage, offering valuable life skills and personal growth opportunities. Drama encourages imaginative thinking and the ability to approach scenarios from different perspectives. It enhances creativity and strengthens verbal and non-verbal communication, boosting clarity, articulation and expression.
DRAMA OPPORTUNITIES: • Encore Musical Theatre Group (Y7–12) • Junior School Musical Production (Y4–6) • Senior School Musical Production (Y7–12)
The art of performing equips students with the confidence and poise to communicate effectively in various settings. Participation in the Dramatic Arts support students to be adaptable, explore their own identities and build a sense of self-worth—it is a dynamic and transformative element of education.
• Senior School Drama Production (Y7–12) • Speech and Drama tuition • Spring Shorts (Y7–12)
Opportunities exist to learn about all facets of a dramatic performance—students can be involved as directors, choreographers, stage management and tech crew.
“I can’t wait to get on stage and bring stories to life in a way that words alone can’t. It’s where I feel most alive and free to be creative.”
Discover more at: cggs.act.edu.au/drama
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Service Learning CGGS has a proud 100-year legacy of service to the community. Deeply rooted in our Anglican faith and founding ethos are three core guiding principles: Love, Honour and Service. A powerful form of experiential learning, Service Learning combines academic outcomes with community service activities. Students contribute to community needs via volunteer opportunities that align with curriculum learning objectives.
SENIOR SCHOOL OPPORTUNITIES: • Amnesty International (Y7–12) • Community Projects (Y9 MYP) • Creativity, Action, Service (CAS) projects (IBDP Y11–12)
Students are encouraged to take part in activities that resonate with both the School’s and their personal values, seek local opportunities that benefit those most in need and that align with and amplify our female-focused mandate.
• Embracing Ministries (Y7–12) • Safe Schools (Y7–12) • The Solomon Islands: Community Service Immersion. A joint Trip with Marist College Canberra (Y10–12).
Activities are in diverse settings with a broad crosssection of populations. Exposure to real-world issues and hands-on experience increases awareness, encourages students to develop a sense of purpose and supports empathy and responsibility.
JUNIOR SCHOOL OPPORTUNITIES: • Billycarts for the Alimo Academy (Y2) • Community Projects (Y6)
FOUNDERS' FESTIVAL
• House Buddies (Y6)
For almost a century, every year in early May, CGGS celebrates the day it was founded. Beyond being a time of celebration, it is an annual moment of deep reflection, respect and gratitude.
• Mother’s Day Classic (Y6) • Rememberance Day fundraising (Y6) • Sewing and Crocheting for local charities (Y5) • Service Action Project and PYP Exhibition (Y5 MYP)
As part of our Founders' Festival program, students and staff from both the Junior and Senior School engage in an inspiring day of acts of service to our local community—both at the School and beyond. We honour our place in Canberra and being good use to those with whom we are fortunate to share this space.
“We are often out in the community to support others. I’ve learnt that small actions can create a big impact—and help me grow as a person too.” Discover more at: cggs.act.edu.au/service
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The Duke of Edinburgh Award The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award is designed to challenge young people to attain standards of achievement and endeavour in a wide variety of active interests—to serve their communities, experience adventure outdoors and to develop and learn outside the classroom.
Senior School opportunities:
The Award is offered at a Bronze, Silver and Gold level, depending on a students’ age and stage. Available to students in Years 9—12, the Award involves logging weekly participation in the areas of Physical Recreation, Skills and Service. Many students find they already undertake these activities through areas such as sport, music and volunteering, so the Award becomes a great way of recognising this commitment.
• Silver Award—Horse Riding (April) and Sailing (September/October) • Gold Award—Hiking and abseiling. Alternates between Tasmania and New Zealand (December/ January).
Junior Duke Award
Each Award level involves two Adventurous Journeys, where students venture into the wilds of the Snowy Mountains, Budawangs and other beautiful locations across Australia to challenge themselves physically and mentally in a supportive, group environment.
The Junior Duke is an international award aimed at Junior School students to increase independence, confidence and resilience by providing a platform on which to feel success and achievement. Students undertake 10 challenges to be awarded the following:
As well as being a highly regarded accomplishment, achieving a Duke of Edinburgh’s Award can support students entering University. The ANU now accepts a Gold or Silver Award as fulfilling all aspects of their co-curricular requirements, while UNSW will grant Gold Award recipients two bonus ATAR points.
• Bronze Junior Duke (Y2) • Silver Junior Duke (Y3) • Gold Junior Duke (Y4)
All students in Year 9 participate in The Duke of Edinburgh Bronze Award program—the first step towards The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award. Year 9 Camp is the ‘Adventurous Journey’ part of the program and all students are supported in their preparation and training for the three day hike.
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Sport
Sport at CGGS values participation, performance and pathways. Students may join a team for fun and fitness or to fulfill their aspirations of an elite level of performance. CGGS has long valued the countless benefits of physical activity—creating a culture of participation and fun, underscoring the importance of teamwork and improving health, wellbeing and self-esteem.
SPORTS OPPORTUNITIES: • Badminton (Y7–12) • Basketball (Y2–12. Discovery Y1–3*)
For over a century students have proudly represented CGGS, competing as individuals and teams at the local, state, national and international level. Competitive pathways include qualification via School carnivals, gala days, School Sport ACT, School Sport Australia, Associated Southern Colleges (ASC) and Club-based opportunities.
• Boxing for fitness (Y5–12)
CGGS is the only ACT school that takes part in both the Independent Primary School Heads of Australia (IPSHA) competition and the Sydneybased Independent Girls Schools Association (IGSA) competition, competing against other independent girls’ schools from across NSW.
• Netball (Y2–12)
• Dragon Boating (Y7–12) • Equestrian (K–Y12) • Football/Soccer (Y2–12. Discovery 1–6*) • Hockey (Y5–12) • Rowing (Y5–12) • RunFit (Athletics/Cross Country) (Y7–12) • Snow Sports (K–Y12) • Health, Fitness and Performance Training
Seasonal sports are complemented by year-round non-competitive sports, and interstate travel is supervised by qualified coaches, Sport staff and teachers.
• SwimFit (Y7–12) • Tae Kwon Do (Y5–12) • Tennis/Pickleball (K–Y12*) • Touch Football (Y4–12) • Water Polo (Y4–12) • Yoga (Y1–12*)
“I’ve always been into sport, but was capable of so much more. To play in a high performing team has made such a difference.”
Discover more at: cggs.act.edu.au/sport
NOTE: Years levels may vary subject to sign-up numbers. *Kindergarten can commence in Semester 2.
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The Podium Program Take your game to the next level. The Podium Program is the School’s own athletic development program designed to support talented student-athletes to exceed in their chosen sport. It offers a balance between demanding training schedules, competition and academic commitments. Through mentorship, the Podium Program empowers students to plan and prepare for the year ahead, as well as providing additional sessions each term that focus on key topics such as recovery, strength and conditioning, mental skills and nutrition. Open for students to apply in Years 8–12, the Podium Program runs year-round. Students start at the Emerging level and can progress to the Podium level in Years 10–12.
Applications are accepted annually, discover more at: cggs.act.edu.au/podium-program
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The House: Women leading in the world Launched on International Women’s Day in 2021, The House is a bespoke CGGS program designed to equip students with a range of skills to follow a career in government, politics and diplomacy. The House enables girls of character, competence, confidence and consideration to commit to being women of power who lead change for an equitable and sustainable future. The program assists young women to understand the systems, processes and competing priorities that exist in politics and government. Students are inspired to develop their own visions for an equitable and sustainable future and to gain skills in negotiation and conflict resolution to make their vision a reality. UN Women notes that worldwide 25% of national parliamentarians and 36% of local government positions are held by women, while only 21% of ministers are women. Without intervention, and projecting from current trends, parity in parliamentary places held will not be achieved before 2063, while women holding an equal number of Head of State positions will possibly be attained by 2150.
“The House has empowered me to understand the systems that shape our world and ways to advocate for change. As a young woman, I want to be part of creating a future where every voice is heard.”
Discover more at: cggs.act.edu.au/the-house
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The Music Academy The Music Academy provides a broad and innovative range of instrumental lessons, group ensemble and class opportunities. Music education promotes self-expression, strengthens cognitive skills and enhances creativity. It fosters discipline, teamwork and perseverance, as students learn to master instruments or collaborate in ensembles. It broadens cultural understanding and appreciation, and interpreting music develops empathy and sensitivity all enriching the CGGS learning experience.
Bands
For all ages and abilities, from a beginner to the accomplished, The Music Academy encourages all students to embrace the joy of music.
• Bandicoot Concert Band (Y3–6)
CONCERT BANDS • Empire Concert Band* (Y7–12) • Holst Concert Band* (Y7–12) • Sapphire Concert Band* (Y7–12) • Beginner Instrumental Program (BIP) (Y3–10) JAZZ BANDS*
Ensembles
• Adelaide Avenue Jazz Band (Y7–12)
A diverse range of ensembles perform an annual calendar of concerts, Eisteddfods, music festivals and tours. Ensembles regularly provide musical support for community events and CGGS concerts, events, functions and services.
• Grey Street Stage Band (Y5–9)
Orchestras
The Music Academy ensembles are divided into six main categories, all of which rehearse weekly during term time under the baton of specialist conductors and teachers:
• Glanville-Hicks Symphony Orchestra (Y5–12)
Bands
• Holland String Orchestra (Y7–12)*
Orchestras
• Celtic (K–Y12)
SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA***
STRING ORCHESTRAS • Sutherland Chamber Orchestra (Y7–12)* • Alma String Orchestra (Y1–6)
Choirs
Choirs
Chamber
CHORALE • Chorale (Y7–12)
Specialisation
• Gabriel Singers* (Y9–12) • Bella Voce Chapel Choir* (Y7–12)
Small Ensembles
• The Decibelles (Y7–12) • Cantantes (Y5–6) • Les Petits Chanteurs (Y3–4) • Minisingers (K–Y2)
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Small ensembles
Chamber
PERCUSSION ENSEMBLES
STRING ENSEMBLES*
• K.T. Percussion Ensemble (Y7–12)
• Emily Quartet (Y7–12)
• Hit It Percussion Ensemble (Y1–6)
• Gabriel Quartet (Y7–12)
HANDBELLS/CHIMES ENSEMBLES
BRASS/WOODWIND ENSEMBLES*
• Strike! Handbells* (Y7–12)
• Brass Ensemble (Y7–12)
• Resound Handbells (Y7–12)
• Clarinet Ensemble (Y7–12)
• Chimers (Y3–6)
• Flute Ensemble (Y7–12) • Saxophone Ensemble (Y7–12)
KEYBOARD
• Wind Quintet (Y7–12)
• Keyboard Ensembles (Y7–12)
KEYBOARD*
JAZZ*
• Piano Quartet (Y7–12)
• Jazz Ensemble (Y7–12)
VOCAL*
GUITAR ENSEMBLES
• Chamber Vocal Ensemble (Y9–12)
• Kain Guitar Ensemble (Y5–12) • Schaupp Guitar Ensemble (Y3–6)
OTHER* • Extension Ensemble (Y9–12)
CONTEMPORARY
Specialisation
• Rock and Pop Ensembles (Y7–12)
TECHNICAL** • Audio Production (Y5–12) THEORY, AURAL AND MUSICIANSHIP** • Theory, Aural and Musicianship (Y3–12)
*There are audition requirements for this ensemble. **Ensembles and classes are semester-based.
PERFORMANCE
***Project-based ensemble for specific concerts.
• Performance Class (Y7–12) 37
THE CO-CURRICULAR EXPERIENCE
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Instrumental Studies Program To elevate individual learning, individual weekly half-hour lessons are conducted by visiting specialist Instrumental Tutors. Options include: • Bassoon (Y5–12)
• Percussion/Drum Kit (Y3–12)
• Cello (Y1–12)
• Piano (Y1–12)
• Clarinet (Y4–12)
• Saxophone (Y4–12)
• Double Bass/Bass Guitar (Y4–12)
• Songwriting and music production (Y7–12)
• Flute/Fife (Y2–12)
• Trombone and Euphonium (Y4–12)
• French Horn (Y4–12)
• Trumpet (Y3–12)
• Guitar (Y2–12)
• Tuba (Y4–12)
• Harp (Y5–12)
• Violin and Viola (Y1–12)
• Oboe (Y5–12)
• Voice (Y2–12)
• Organ (Y4–12)
“I can fully immerse myself in my passion for music. I love being up on stage, surrounded by talented peers making amazing music together.”
Discover more at: cggs.act.edu.au/music-academy
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The cost for some Cygnus co-curricular options are not included in the tuition fee. Once a student is enrolled, guidelines regarding the registration process, schedules, associated costs and supporting policies are available via Agora. cggs.act.edu.au/cygnus cocurricular@cggs.act.edu.au
For current families Access Agora to find more information on sign-ups using the QR code below.
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THE CO-CURRICULAR EXPERIENCE
P 02 6202 6400 E cocurricular@cggs.act.edu.au
Senior Campus
Junior Campus and ELC
Lakeside Campus
48 Melbourne Avenue Deakin ACT 2600 Australia
24 Grey Street Deakin ACT 2600 Australia
43 Alexandrina Dr Yarralumla ACT 2600 Australia
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Edition 1.1 September 2025
CRICOS 01294F