Independent Schools Guide 2024: Melbourne Girls Grammar promotes the many faces of excellence

Each year, graduating students at Melbourne Girls Grammar demonstrate the strong correlation between general excellence and academic success.

In 2023, Lola Dahan scored a 96.6 ATAR. However, before she’d even sat her first VCE exam, Lola had been offered a full rowing scholarship to study political science at the University of California in the US city of Los Angeles.

“In her final year, Lola balanced her VCE studies, an intense rowing training program, travelling to the UK to compete in the Henley Royal Regatta, and her role as Vice-Captain of Boats,” says Principal Dr Toni Meath.

“She was an energetic leader, contributed significantly to the school community through House events, assemblies and student life, and made time for people and causes outside school.

“Lola is an exceptional role model to younger Grammarians, and her commitment to her personal development and academic goals and her engagement with school life perfectly demonstrate the value of ‘general excellence’.”

Melbourne Girls Grammar has an impressive academic reputation, but the school recognises excellence in many shapes and forms.

“Involvement in all aspects of school life increases each student’s sense of belonging, facilitates new friendships, and leads to higher levels of motivation and engagement,” Meath says.

“From drama to rowing, music ensembles, sporting opportunities, art classes and clubs, debating, gardening and coding – the list goes on – there is something for everyone.”

The Artemis Centre is a physical health and wellbeing hub that helps students develop their understanding of how to live a healthy life.

Students are also actively involved in community service projects. Audrey Choi, the 2023 School Captain, says every opportunity is available if students work hard and stay true to themselves.

Choi says the most important lesson she learned while at Melbourne Girls Grammar is that “you have to get your feet wet if you want to learn to swim”.

She says that prior to being at MGGS, she was more outcome-focused, however the culture of active participation at the school opened her eyes to the other rewards that can be gained from giving things a go.

“I realised that the true prize was the friends you made and the experiences you have,” she says.

“The encouraging and supportive nature of the school pushed me outside my comfort zone and I engaged with everything from athletics carnivals to taekwondo and House music. I feel stronger than ever.”

Melbourne Girls Grammar

Merton Hall

86 Anderson Street, South Yarra, VIC 3141

Morris Hall

100 Caroline Street, South Yarra, VIC 3141

mggs.vic.edu.au

Enquiries: (03) 9862 9200,  enrolments@mggs.vic.edu.au

Years: ELC-Year 12

Denomination: Anglican

Gender: Girls

Fees: $27,272-$41,864

Boarding: Yes

Scholarships: Yes

ATAR (median for 2023): 85.1