For nearly a century, Canberra Grammar School (CGS) has been educating and empowering young people with a world-class, values-based education in the heart of the nation’s capital. As a fully co-educational school for Pre-School to Year 12, CGS offers a dynamic, inclusive, and future-focused environment where students are inspired to thrive.
Founded in 1929, nestled on 20 hectares in Ngunnawal country, the CGS campus combines heritage charm with state-of-the-art facilities. From the purpose-built Early Learning Centre and the striking multi-level Primary School building, to our science and innovation hubs, extensive sporting grounds, and the renowned Snow Concert Hall, every part of the campus is designed to enrich learning and foster excellence.
The CGS Experience
At CGS, students don’t just study — they explore, lead, and discover their place in the world. Learning extends far beyond the classroom through an extensive co-curricular programme that encourages curiosity, creativity, and confidence.
Year 6 student, Sadie, reflects, “Co-curricular gives me a much richer experience. You learn independence, resilience, and how to keep going, while meeting people who like the same things as you.”
Students can learn new languages, develop coding and robotics skills, perform on stage, debate complex global issues, or represent the school in sport at regional and national levels. Outdoor education programmes, service learning, and leadership opportunities help students develop resilience, teamwork, and a sense of responsibility to others.
“Our students’ achievements speak volumes,” says Head of School, Justin Garrick. “From the ski slopes to the stage, the debating floor to the sporting field, they embody what it means to be curious, creative, confident, and compassionate global citizens.”
Wellbeing and Belonging
At Canberra Grammar School, academic achievement is supported by a strong foundation of pastoral care. Pastoral care at CGS refers to the holistic development of all our students from Pre-School to Year 12 — emotional, social, and spiritual. The House-based model builds a strong sense of belonging and leadership, with different approaches across age groups, but the same unwavering goal: to care for and support every individual.
This sense of connection is woven into daily life. Whether leading a House initiative, performing in the Snow Concert Hall, or competing on the sporting field, students develop confidence, build resilience, and form friendships that last well beyond their school years.
Ready for the World
In the senior years, students can pursue either the Higher School Certificate (HSC) or the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP), allowing them to choose a pathway that aligns with their strengths and future aspirations.
Located in Australia’s capital, CGS also offers unique opportunities beyond the campus. Access to national institutions, cultural organisations, and industry leaders enriches learning and provides students with valuable real-world experiences.
Reflecting on this experience, 2025 graduate Jake shares, “I emerge from CGS with a robust toolkit of life skills, a curious mind, a creative approach to challenges, the confidence to pursue my aspirations, and the compassion to contribute positively to any community I join.”
For families beyond Canberra, Canberra Grammar School also offers co-ed boarding within a welcoming community for students in Years 7 to 12. With flexible boarding options and dedicated pastoral support, boarders quickly feel at home while enjoying the full breadth of academic, co-curricular, and enrichment opportunities the school provides.
We warmly invite you to experience the Canberra Grammar School difference at our upcoming Open Day in May. Tour the campus, meet our educators and students, and see firsthand what makes CGS such a vibrant and inspiring place to learn.
Visit CGS.ACT.EDU.AU to register.
