Term 1, 2024

Principal

As we approach the end of Term 1, the campus is bustling with activity, exuding that energy and excitement so characteristic of our School. The students are immersed in their learning with exams approaching, while continuing to commit wholeheartedly to the many facets of their broader life and friendships.

The recent Interhouse Swimming Carnival at Chandler was a great display of competitive athleticism and spirited support and last night’s International Women’s Day Concert honoured this year’s theme: Count Her In: Invest in women. Accelerate progress, which aligns with the very essence of Brisbane Girls Grammar School and its establishment—on 15 March 1875—to provide girls with the same educational opportunities as their brothers.

In a recent editorial for InQueensland, I wrote of the important role of education, which we all understand is foundational to real and enduring change. For a good education provides not only the facts and realities, but also inspires a commitment to ideals and develops the confidence to see—and act on—possibilities.

Educators show young people what is possible, to reach for the future with confidence—expanding their horizons and outlook on life. They teach the skills that support students to gain economic and personal freedom, and empower them to contribute, to stand up, to make a difference where they can. And, naturally, a school environment sets up students to react and find reward in change.

Last night, before our own magnificent concert, I attended an International Women’s Day event hosted by Her Excellency the Honourable Dr Jeannette Young AC PSM, Governor of Queensland, and Professor Graeme Nimmo RFD at Government House, with Head Girls, Iha Agrawal (12R) and Aoife Bedggood (12O). All present affirmed the importance of uplifting and honouring those who have made significant advances to ensure that the future for our girls is bright, equal, safe, and rewarding. In the words of our Foundation Day Speaker, Kirby Short’s grandmother, ‘I hope I will be remembered as a woman who helped other women’. That is something Grammar girls come to deeply understand at their School and in their lives beyond.

I hope the Term is progressing well for our students and their families.