Cultural Support & Wellbeing

BUILDING CONNECTIONS, HONOURING CULTURE, SUPPORTING WELLBEING

We actively engage with a range of individuals and organisations to create a strong support network for our Indigenous students throughout their journey at the School. From meaningful connections with our local community Elders to collaborations with key organisations, we foster cultural engagement through traditional smoking ceremonies and Indigenous celebrations. These experiences help strengthen their sense of identity, belonging, and connection to community.

Beyond cultural enrichment, we prioritise student wellbeing by providing dedicated pastoral care, mentoring, academic and emotional support. By nurturing a strong sense of identity, belonging, and connection to community, we empower our students to thrive both personally and academically.

Indigenous Programme Coordinator

Our Indigenous Student Coordinator is an on-site resource dedicated to providing Indigenous students with a safe space to connect, chat, and discuss any concerns or challenges they may be facing. This role is crucial to the success of the programme and ensures a culturally safe environment for students. The Coordinator helps foster a community where Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students can engage with other students, staff, and Alumni, promoting support, belonging, and cultural connection.

Indigenous Student Mentor

The Indigenous Student Mentor plays a vital role in supporting and empowering Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students. This role is dedicated to bridging traditional cultural knowledge with modern educational practices, providing personalised guidance, and fostering a sense of pride in one’s heritage. The mentor offers one-on-one support, facilitates culturally relevant programs, and creates opportunities for meaningful dialogue, ensuring that students feel both valued and connected as they navigate their academic and personal journeys.

Indigenous Scholarship Coordinator

The Indigenous Scholarship Coordinator oversees and manages the Indigenous Scholarship programme, ensuring that students receive the necessary financial and academic support. This role involves liaising with community partners, streamlining application processes, and providing ongoing guidance to empower Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students in their educational journeys.

Connections with Elders

Our School is deeply enriched by the wisdom and guidance of our elder community, who serve as integral pillars of cultural connection. They generously share their traditional knowledge through immersive sessions—be it through art, song, dance, storytelling, or language—and play a vital role in significant ceremonies and everyday school life. Their commitment to preserving and sharing Indigenous and Torres Strait Islander heritage creates a vibrant cultural support system that benefits students across all levels, fostering understanding, respect, and a strong sense of community.

Round-the-clock Care | Boarding at CGS

Our boarders have 24 hour, seven day a week support from an incredible team of dedicated and caring professionals, led by the Heads of Boarding. The team also includes live in and visiting tutors, a registered nurse and visiting doctor. Academic tutors offer that little bit extra to support our commitment to academic excellence while our Boarding Coordinator assists in the day-to-day care of boarders by providing pastoral, domestic and administrative support to boarders, their families and the Boarding House staff. CGS Boarding also offers a range of dedicated pastoral care staff, including counsellors and psychologists who are on-staff. Find out more about our boarding facilities, care and support.

Student Care and Development

At Canberra Grammar School, we foster a strong sense of belonging and provide comprehensive support for each student’s academic, social, and personal growth. Our student development approach is tailored to individual needs, creating a nurturing environment where students thrive. Grounded in a rich and supportive school culture, our care is built upon four key pillars: Houses & Tutor Groups, Leadership & Service, Spiritual Life & Chaplaincy, and Student Services. Through this network, we ensure every student feels valued, supported, and empowered to succeed. Find out more about the School’s student care and development offerings.