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Curriculum IB (PYP), IB (MYP), IB (DP), Australian Curriculum
Taught languages Mandarin, French, Latin, Spanish, English
Strengths Sport, Performing Arts, Languages
Clubs Arts and Creative, Academic and Intellectual, Leadership and Professional
Stages Preschool, Early Years, Primary School, Secondary School, Kindergarten
Introduction
Canberra Girls Grammar School is an independent day and boarding school for girls aged 3 to 18 in Canberra. It is Canberra's first authorised IB Continuum School, offering the IB Primary Years Programme, Middle Years Programme and Diploma Programme alongside the Australian Curriculum. The school operates from two Deakin campuses and Grey Street junior site, with lakeside facilities at Lake Burley Griffin and a three-storey science block added in 2012. Students access facilities for science, performing arts, design and textiles, ICT, and libraries on each campus. The IBDP combines six subject groups with core Theory of Knowledge, Extended Essay and Creativity, Activity, Service, while Years 11–12 can follow the ACT BSSS pathway. The co-curriculum spans sport, music, drama, debating, service learning and leadership, including rowing and sailing at Yhuuramulum and the Duke of Edinburgh Award. The school marks 100-year centenary in 2026 and welcomes a diverse community with 30+ nationalities.
Canberra Girls Grammar School has 1,300 pupils, instruction in English.
Location
Located in the leafy inner Canberra suburb of Deakin, Canberra Girls Grammar School spreads across two campuses and has a multi-purpose facility on the shores of Lake Burley Griffin. The Early Learning Centre and Junior School are at 24 Grey Street, Deakin ACT 2600; the Senior School is at Melbourne Avenue, Deakin ACT 2600. The school's Deakin campuses provide easy access to airport, road and rail transportation.
Stages
Early Learning Centre (ages 3–6); Junior School (Kindergarten to Year 6); Senior School (Year 7 to Year 12).
Type
Independent girls' school offering day and boarding; Canberra's first authorised IB Continuum School offering Primary Years Programme (PYP), Middle Years Programme (MYP) and Diploma Programme (DP). The school also hosts a boarding community.
Additional learning support
Inclusive Learning and Enrichment Program coordinates support for diverse learning needs, including gifted and talented students, students with disabilities, and those needing social-emotional support. Programs include inspirED (Junior School), Middle Years Study Skills, Senior Study Support, Negotiated Studies (Year 10) and ILP-based support for students with disabilities.
Religious affiliation
Anglican
School day structure
Class times: Early Learning Centre 9:00–3:00; Junior School 8:45–3:20; Senior School 8:45–3:20.
Bus service
Private CGGS bus service operates a Northside route for Kindergarten–12 students, serving Gungahlin, Franklin, O'Connor, Dickson, Ainslie and Campbell. NSW residents can access CDC Canberra bus routes; there are also weekly and casual boarding options available.
Fees
Annual tuition at Canberra Girls Grammar School ranges from AUD 27,255 for 2026/27.
Application & enrolment fees - Application fee (non-refundable, payable with each admission application): AUD 235. - Enrolment fee (non-refundable): AUD 2,500. - Parents & Friends (P&F) Association membership fee: AUD 50 per family (ELC families excluded for international schedule). - School Development Contribution (annual, compulsory): AUD 285 per student.
Resource levy (charged in full at the beginning of Term 1 or on commencement date) - ELC Reception and Pre-K: AUD 300. - Junior School Kindergarten (including ICT): AUD 1,050. - Year 1 (including Camp and ICT): AUD 1,200. - Year 2 (including Camp and ICT): AUD 1,300. - Year 3 (including Camp and ICT): AUD 1,450. - Year 4 (including Camp, ICT and Instrumental Music Program): AUD 1,650. - Year 5 (including Camp and ICT): AUD 1,550. - Year 6 (including Camp, ICT and Instrumental Music Program): AUD 2,400. - Year 7 (including Camp and ICT): AUD 2,150. - Year 8 (including Camp): AUD 1,570. - Year 9 (including Camp): AUD 1,650. - Year 10 (including Retreat): AUD 1,300. - Year 11 (including Retreat): AUD 1,100. - Year 12 (including Retreat): AUD 730.
Annual tuition fees — Domestic (annual and per-term where billed in four equal instalments unless stated otherwise) - ELC Reception and Pre-K (5 days): Annual AUD 27,565 — Per term (4 terms): AUD 6,891.25. ELC invoicing is fortnightly in arrears (ELC fees are invoiced fortnightly rather than by term). - ELC Reception and Pre-K (3 days): Annual AUD 16,390 — Per term (4 terms): AUD 4,097.50. - ELC Reception and Pre-K (2 days): Annual AUD 11,175 — Per term (4 terms): AUD 2,793.75. - Kindergarten; Years 1–2: Annual AUD 22,900 — Per term: AUD 5,725.00. - Years 3–4: Annual AUD 25,470 — Per term: AUD 6,367.50. - Years 5–6: Annual AUD 26,860 — Per term: AUD 6,715.00. - Years 7–8: Annual AUD 31,150 — Per term: AUD 7,787.50. - Years 9–10: Annual AUD 32,080 — Per term: AUD 8,020.00. - Years 11–12: Annual AUD 33,890. For Years 11 and 12 combined annual rate is AUD 33,890 per student; Years 11 is billed in four equal instalments (per term: AUD 8,472.50), and Year 12 tuition is billed in three equal instalments over the first three terms (per instalment for Year 12: AUD 11,296.67).
Annual tuition fees — International full-fee paying students (annual and per-semester where applicable) - Years 3–4: Annual AUD 39,940 — Per semester (school invoices one semester in advance in two equal instalments): AUD 19,970. - Years 5–6: Annual AUD 42,070 — Per semester: AUD 21,035. - Years 7–8: Annual AUD 46,330 — Per semester: AUD 23,165. - Years 9–10: Annual AUD 48,140 — Per semester: AUD 24,070. - Years 11–12: Annual AUD 50,270 — Per semester: AUD 25,135. A tuition fee deposit for the first study period (50% of the annual tuition fee and boarding fee) and other charges is payable at acceptance for international students, thereafter fees are payable one semester in advance in two equal instalments.
Boarding fees (Senior School — payable in addition to tuition fees) - Domestic boarders (full-time, annual): AUD 36,480. - International boarders (full-time, annual): AUD 37,540. - Weekly boarding (Monday–Friday), annual: AUD 31,900 (applies to domestic and international where stated). - Casual boarding rate: AUD 265 per day.
Billing schedule & payment terms - ELC tuition and out-of-school-care fees are invoiced fortnightly in arrears. Junior and Senior School (Kindergarten–Year 11) tuition and boarding fees are billed in four equal instalments. Year 12 tuition and boarding fees are billed in three equal instalments over the first three terms. Resource levy, P&F membership fee and School Development Contribution are billed at the beginning of Term 1 or on the student's commencement date. - Payment frequencies accepted via direct debit arrangement: annually, quarterly, monthly or fortnightly (direct debit is the School's preference). Alternatively, tuition fees may be paid on the first day of each term (domestic) or one semester in advance for international students as per the enrolment letter. ELC and out-of-school hours care fees are payable by direct debit only. - Payment methods for amounts not on direct debit: Electronic funds transfer (EFT), BPAY or credit card (MasterCard and Visa). Credit card fees apply. Cash payments are not accepted. All fees are charged in Australian dollars (AUD). - A 3% rebate applies if fees for the full year are paid in advance and payment is received by the School on or before the first day of Term 1. Tuition and boarding fees for the following year may be accepted at the current year rate if pre-paid within the School's stated deadline.
Late payments, unpaid fees and discounts - Late fee: AUD 110 (if unpaid balance is less than AUD 1,500) or AUD 300 (if unpaid balance is greater than AUD 1,500). The School may charge a late fee each term/semester if accounts are not paid in full by the due date or when payment arrangements lapse. - If a fee account remains unpaid after the third week of term and no payment arrangement has been agreed, the School may remove a student's right to attend the School or restrict participation in co-curricular activities. - Family (sibling) discount: Kindergarten–Year 12 — 7.5% discount on tuition fees for a second child and 15% for a third and any subsequent child simultaneously enrolled; discount applies to the youngest student. (International schedule specifies sibling discounts for Years 3–12 similarly.)
Other costs, OSHC and incidental charges - Additional charges that may be incurred include excursions, outdoor education, concerts, private music lessons, co-curricular activities, some textbooks, uniforms and voluntary activities; boarders may incur travel and medical costs. - Out-of-school-hours care (OSHC) and Holiday Program rates (daily permanent booking / daily casual booking): - ELC Before school care: AUD 30 / AUD 35. - ELC After school care: AUD 55 / AUD 60. - ELC Holiday Program: AUD 135 (daily permanent booking). - Junior School After school care: AUD 55 / AUD 60. - Junior School Holiday Program: AUD 135 (daily permanent booking). - ELC and Junior School late pick-up fee: AUD 50 / AUD 55.
Leave of absence, mid-term enrolment and withdrawal rules - Mid-term enrolment: For enrolments commencing between Weeks 1–4 of a term, a full term's fee is payable (pro-rata for part-time ELC). For enrolments commencing Week 5 or later, half-term fees are payable. - Leave of absence (LOA): If a student applies for an LOA with less than one full term's notice, a fee equivalent to half a term's tuition (and boarding fees if applicable) will be charged. For LOAs with at least one full term's notice, a non-refundable, non-transferable holding fee of AUD 2,000 will be applied; any extension request is treated as a new request and a holding fee will apply. - Notice of withdrawal or change to enrolment: One full school term's written notice to the Principal is required to cease enrolment or to change from boarding to day status. If the required notice is not provided, 50% of one term's fees are payable. Tuition fees will continue to apply for absences of less than one term; absences of more than one term require arrangement with the School.
Refund information - International students: refunds for international students are handled under the School's International Student Guidelines and the applicable refund provisions contained in those guidelines and the student's letter of offer. - Domestic/prepayment rebate: A 3% rebate is offered when full-year fees are paid in advance by the specified deadline; other refund and adjustment rules apply for mid-term starts, LOAs and withdrawals as detailed above.
Practical notes on charging and billing - All fees are charged in Australian dollars (AUD). Tuition fees cannot be paid in cash. GST is charged on all taxable supplies. Fee statements are posted on the Agora Family Portal approximately two weeks prior to the start of each term (a final fee statement is posted prior to the end of Term 4).
Support for payment flexibility - The School provides a direct debit payment arrangement as the preferred method and offers Edstart as an external flexible payment option to help families spread fees over fortnightly or monthly payments and to bundle other educational costs. Edstart arrangements are separate financial services.
Academics
Canberra Girls Grammar School teaches IB (PYP), IB (MYP), IB (DP), Australian Curriculum for students aged 3 to 18.
Curriculum
Junior School uses the International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme (PYP) for Kindergarten to Year 5, and Year 6 marks the introduction of the International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme (MYP). Years 7–9 study English, Mathematics, Science, Humanities, Design Technologies, Language, Art and Health and Physical Education, with Languages offered in Latin, Chinese and French and Arts options in Visual Art, Drama, Dance or Music. Years 11–12 offer either the ACT Board of Senior Secondary Studies (BSSS) package or the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP); both lead to an Australian Tertiary Admissions Ranking (ATAR). The IBDP comprises six subject groups plus core components Theory of Knowledge, Extended Essay and Creativity, Activity, Service; CGGS notes the IBDP as a holistic pre-tertiary option. The school integrates the IB framework with the ACT senior secondary pathways, supporting multiple post-school routes.
Exam Results
Jaya Pitchford was the 2025 Dux of the BSSS cohort with an ATAR of 99.6 and received a Recognition of Excellence Award; Graduation also highlighted award recipients in English and Mathematics. The Class of 2025 profiles show high-achieving outcomes and progression into competitive university programs.
Higher Education Progression
Graduates pursue higher education at universities including the Australian National University, Charles Sturt University, University of Wollongong, University of Melbourne, University of Sydney, University of New South Wales, and Central Queensland University; individual profiles note plans to study in 2026–2027 or pursue related programs (e.g., Adarae Wong to the University of Melbourne; Maeve Ryan to CSU; Charlotte Walker to UOW; Isabelle Hung to CQUniversity). Suha Thazhathezil Zakir also heads toward Medicine at ANU, and Heidi King plans to study engineering at the Australian Defence Force Academy.
Gifted and Talented
CGGS identifies giftedness across areas including academics, creative arts, sport, leadership and service; it uses a balanced identification process and provides high-quality, specialised programs and learning environments, including curriculum compacting, cluster grouping, above-level testing, subject acceleration, gifted profiles and in-class differentiation; Enhanced learning options extend opportunities beyond the standard curriculum.
Wellbeing
Social and Emotional Learning (SEL)
The school delivers pastoral care and wellbeing across student life. It focuses on the physical, emotional, cognitive, spiritual and social health and development of all students. Educators take responsibility for supporting each student's personal, social and physical development through learning engagements both within and outside the curriculum. The House system anchors the pastoral program, creating a caring and positive environment and helping students develop self-esteem, resilience and a sense of social justice. The pastoral program is supported by heads of house, school psychologists and the Chaplain, with expert guest speakers. Parents are partners in supporting students' academic, social and emotional growth to help them become independent, world-ready young women.
Special Educational Needs (SEN)
The Inclusive Learning and Enrichment Program is coordinated by the Head of Inclusive Learning and Enrichment with the assistance of the Inclusive Learning and Enrichment Support Team. It recognises diverse learning needs, including gifted and talented students, students with disabilities or specific learning difficulties, and students whose welfare or emotional wellbeing need particular support. An Individual Learning Plan (ILP) is developed for students with an identified disability in collaboration with an advisory teacher, parents, classroom teachers and the student, with long-term goals and short-term objectives. The ILP is supported by the Inclusive Learning and Enrichment team to enable learning across the curriculum. InspirED (Junior School) provides learning extension and targeted support, including high-potential learner programs and interventions such as small-group reading and numeracy support. The aim is to tailor learning to the individual student's needs.
Mental Wellbeing
The school places pastoral care and wellbeing at the core of student life and focuses on the whole person. It attends to physical, emotional, cognitive, spiritual and social health and development. Pastoral care is built on the House system and is supported by Heads of House, school psychologists, the Chaplain and guest speakers, with reinforcement through camps, chapel and service opportunities. The program supports adolescents' social and emotional growth and is integrated with the school's broader curriculum to nurture resilient, well-rounded young women.
Safeguarding
CGGS has zero tolerance for child abuse and is committed to the safety, wellbeing and development of all children and young people. The school has policies, procedures and training to meet obligations under the National Principles for Child Safe Organisations and relevant laws. All staff, volunteers and anyone involved in child-connected work are responsible for safeguarding. If there is a belief or suspicion that a child is being abused or neglected, contact the Child and Youth Protection Services (CYPS) and the School immediately. A Child Safe Code of Conduct and Child Safe Policy are provided for viewing.
Admissions
Admissions
Intake and enrolment structure: CGGS is co-educational from Early Learning to Year 3, then female-focused through to Year 12. Intake years include Reception, Pre-Kindergarten, Kindergarten (co-educational) and Years 4, 7 and 10 (female-focused). International applications are accepted from Year 3. Most enrolments are confirmed two years in advance; applications are accepted year-round; enrolment can commence at any time, depending on waitlists. Step 1: Enquire. Step 2: Apply. Step 3: Documentation. Step 4: Interview. Step 5: Offer. Step 6: Confirmation. Step 1: Enquire contact details: Enrolments Team via online enquiry form, phone 02 6202 6420 or email [email protected]. Step 2: Apply: Online application with a 235 AUD non-refundable non-transferable fee. Step 3: Documentation: Two years prior to entry, waitlisted applicants are contacted to request updated documents; if the start date is immediate, this is requested at application. Step 4: Interview: Interview with the Principal, Head of Junior or Senior School or delegate; boarders involve the Director of Boarding; ELC interviews are six months prior to commencement with a Conditional Letter of Offer. Step 5: Offer: Letter of Offer and Enrolment Agreement issued after the interview. Step 6: Confirmation: Enrolment Agreement signed and 2,500 AUD non-refundable enrolment fee paid; Boarding House Agreement for boarders; enrolment is guaranteed through to Year 3 for boys and Year 12 for girls, provided ongoing requirements are met.
Scholarships
Scholarship and Bursary Program has two streams: The Scholarship Stream and The Bursary Stream. The Scholarship Stream recognises academic excellence and achievement in sport, music or the arts; Indigenous students may access boarding; Scholarships are generally 25% of tuition and may be means-tested; An Academic Assessment Services (AAS) test is required. Scholarships include the Principal's Scholarship of Excellence; Gabriel Foundation Scholarship (Academic, Arts, Music, Sport); Indigenous Scholarship. The Bursary Stream provides means-tested financial tuition support; Indigenous opportunities with boarding; Bursaries include Gabriel Foundation Bursary and Archer Family Bursary; Archer Year 11 entry; Gabriel Foundation Bursary and Archer Family Bursary Remissions: typically 25% or more for Gabriel Foundation; 50% for Archer Family Bursary; The Gabriel Foundation funds both Scholarship and Bursary programs. Applications for the 2028 Scholarship and Bursary Program are open; close on Wednesday 18 March 2026; Bursary applications are accepted year-round; Guidelines and Policy available.
Waitlist
Waitlist: Enrolment is influenced by waitlists; most enrolments are confirmed two years in advance; applications are accepted year-round; enrolment can commence at any time depending on waitlists.
FAQs
What age range does CGGS cater for?
CGGS accepts students from age 3 through to 18. The Early Learning Centre serves ages 3-6, the Junior School covers Kindergarten to Year 6, and the Senior School runs Year 7 to Year 12.
Is the school co-educational?
CGGS is co-educational from Early Learning to Year 3, then transitions to girls-only education from Year 4 through to Year 12. It is the ACT's only exclusively female boarding option.
What curriculum does CGGS follow?
CGGS is Canberra's first authorised IB Continuum School, offering the PYP, MYP, and Diploma Programme. Senior students can also choose the ACT Board of Senior Secondary Studies certificate alongside the IB Diploma.
Does CGGS offer boarding?
Yes, the BoHo is the ACT's first and only exclusively female boarding house, located on the Senior School grounds. Options include full-time, weekly, and casual boarding for domestic and international students.
What languages are taught?
Languages include Latin, Chinese, French, and Spanish. The IB Diploma offers Language B options in Chinese, French, Latin, and Spanish ab initio. English B is available for international students.
What learning support is available?
The Inclusive Learning and Enrichment Program supports diverse needs including gifted students, those with disabilities, and those needing social-emotional support. Individual Learning Plans are developed collaboratively with families and external specialists.
What are the school fees?
The application fee is AUD 235 and the enrolment fee is AUD 2,500. Annual tuition is AUD 27,255. Additional charges include a resource levy, School Development Contribution of AUD 285, and P&F membership of AUD 50.
What sporting options are available?
Sports include badminton, basketball, boxing, dragon boating, equestrian, football, hockey, netball, rowing, swimming, tennis, and many more. The Podium Program supports talented student-athletes with mentorship and training.
What arts programmes does CGGS offer?
The Performing Arts program features a Dance Company with Ballet, Contemporary, Hip Hop, and Jazz. Students perform at concerts, eisteddfods, and community events. Music, drama, and visual arts are also offered.
How do I apply for enrolment?
Applications are accepted year-round for intake years including Reception, Pre-Kindergarten, Kindergarten, and Years 4, 7, and 10. Most enrolments are confirmed two years in advance, so early application is recommended.
Are scholarships available?
Yes, CGGS offers a Scholarship and Bursary Program with two streams: the Scholarship Stream recognises academic, sport, music, and arts excellence, and the Bursary Stream provides financial assistance.
What is the school's history?
CGGS began in 1926 as St Gabriel's Girls School in Reid, founded by the Anglican Sisters of the Church. It moved to Deakin and evolved into the modern independent school it is today.
What wellbeing support is provided?
Pastoral care is anchored in the House system with dedicated Heads of House, school psychologists, and wellbeing staff. The school focuses on physical, emotional, cognitive, spiritual, and social development of all students.
What gifted and talented provisions exist?
CGGS identifies giftedness across academics, arts, sport, leadership, and service. Support includes curriculum compacting, cluster grouping, above-level testing, and subject acceleration tailored to individual strengths.
