Willoughby Girls High School is a leader in girls' education.
This is our philosophy:
Academic excellence
A school which aims for the best possible academic outcomes for students where:
- expectations of individual excellence are the norm
- students achieve better than expected results
- teachers use engaging methodologies which intellectually challenge students
- students are excited about learning and see relevance of their class work
- subject knowledge, skills and attitudes are taught with rigour
- gifted and talented students are catered for in both classroom and extracurricular contexts.
Student centred learning
A school where independent learning is part of the fabric of the classroom and the school, which:
- encourages students to take responsibility for and risks in their learning
- supports students to excel as individuals, work cooperatively in groups and collaborate to maximise learning and achievement
- supports the individual learning needs of all students
- provides opportunities for students to exercise real choice in their own learning
- trains students to confidently utilise a broad range of technologies
- develops student capacity for critical reflection and articulation of a wide range of ideas.
Empowering young women
A school which practises contemporary thinking about gender equity, which:
- ensures that girls have opportunities to succeed
- fosters and develops student confidence in personal and public arenas
- empowers girls to develop a consciousness of gender equity
- develops leadership skills and aspirations in girls
- promotes positive attitudes towards a healthy lifestyle
- enhances career and life prospects for girls.
Good citizenship and values
A school which promotes core values, ethical behaviour and an optimistic view of the future, which:
- teaches the values of truth, courage, loyalty and personal accountability
- encourages and rewards student initiative and leadership
- encourages and responds to a strong student voice
- ensures that girls feel safe, are cared for and develop self-respect and resilience
- develops intercultural understanding and is respectful of cultural differences
- balances individual rights with collective responsibilities and respect for others
- maintains a sense of order and an environment conducive to learning.
Learning community
A school which values life-long learning, active involvement and continuous improvement, where:
- students, staff and parents work together to achieve the shared vision of the school
- students and teachers reflect together on the teaching/learning relationship
- developmental opportunities are provided for students, staff and parents
- clear expectations of roles and responsibilities are reflected in policies and procedures.