Snowy Mountains Grammar School was named 2018 Boarding School of the Year at the inaugural Australian Education Awards held in Sydney last week. The winners were announced at a Gala Awards Dinner held at Cockle Bay in Sydney on Friday night.
The awards were open to any school in the Australian K-12 education sector and aimed to recognise the achievements of schools and individuals across the country.
SMGS was a finalist in three categories: Innovation in Curriculum Design, Best Co-Curricular Program, and Boarding School of the Year. The school won the Boarding School of the Year award, against a very strong group of finalists that included Ascham School, Toorak College and The Scots College.
Head of Boarding, Mrs Julie Wright, accepted the award on behalf of the school and paid tribute to the staff and school community.
“What an absolute honour to receive such a prestigious award”, Mrs Wright said.
“We are a unique and special school that has so very much to offer in this beautiful rural environment. How wonderful that we have the opportunity to show what the boarding team and extended staff, both teaching and administration, contribute to make boarding such a special experience for our boarding students.”
The award also recognises the supportive and encouraging environment in which SMGS boarders live. There are currently almost 60 students in Years 7 – 12 who take advantage of the school’s boarding experience. Students taking part in the Elite Snowsports Academy during Term 3 are also welcome to board. Each student is individually supported throughout their studies, and encouraged to take part in the various activities available within the pristine Snowy Mountains region.
Cora McCloskey is the Boarding Captain for 2018. In this role, Cora is the student ambassador for the boarding students within the school, and believes that the award recognises all of the best parts of boarding at SMGS.
“SMGS’s boarding house is a cheerful community that presents many opportunities for students such as snowsports in winter and mountain biking riding in summer”, she said. “Ourclose-knit community creates strong friendships and lifelong relationships”.
The importance of the boarding community to SMGS was also highlighted by Principal Andrew Bell.
“I am delighted for all involved, and that our School more broadly plays a role in educating young people in a modern world where there is no shortage of challenges”, said Principal Bell. “[The award] validates the work educators and carers do in wider society and I commend all boarding schools around the country for the important role they play in developing our future.”
Winning the 2018 Boarding School of the Year award is a huge achievement for SMGS. Boarding opportunities for the 2019 school year are now available.
To find out more about Boarding at SMGS or to arrange a tour of our facilities, please contact our Registrar, Angela Dutch at registrar@smgs.nsw.edu.au or through our online enquiry.
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