From the Principal
The Confidence Journey: Strengthening Girls Through Education
As the leader of a girls’ school, part of my brief is to work with the staff to provide opportunities for our students to develop confidence. I do so, as I believe that confidence is a cornerstone for success, particularly for girls and young women, who face unique challenges and are still contending with social pressures and expectations that can undermine their self-assurance.
For me, developing confidence is not just about boosting self-esteem; it’s about empowering each student to navigate their journey with trust in their own abilities, strength to take risks or speak up, and ambition to thrive uninhibited. When girls believe in their abilities, they are more likely to engage in STEM fields, leadership roles, and other areas where they have been historically underrepresented. This engagement is not only beneficial for their personal growth but also for driving innovation and diversity in these fields.
Creating a supportive educational environment is key to building this confidence. Teachers and mentors play a key role here. By providing encouragement, leveraging students' strengths, and offering support when mistakes occur, educators can help students develop a solutions-driven approach that centres on embracing experimentation and pushing boundaries in their learning. Learning environments are not just physical spaces but also social and emotional ones, that can equip students with the strength and self-assurance needed to navigate challenges and seize opportunities. When girls are encouraged to set ambitious goals and are provided with supportive, challenging environments, their self-efficacy and, consequently, their confidence, flourish.
Confidence is also crucial in developing a growth mindset. When girls start believing that effort, not perfection, is what matters, you see a distinct shift in their confidence. They’re no longer afraid to raise their hand in class, they embrace leadership opportunities without fear of rejection, they meet challenges with enthusiasm and creativity. With a growth mindset, mistakes become stepping stones, and girls learn that pushing their boundaries is where real growth—and self-belief—happens.
Parents and families also play a crucial role in shaping a girl’s confidence. The support and encouragement girls receive at home often sets the tone for how they perceive themselves in the world. Effusive praise from family members, while important, should be balanced with constructive feedback. It's not just about telling girls they're doing great; it's about helping them understand that growth comes through effort, grit, and the willingness to learn from setbacks. A family environment that encourages open dialogue, risk-taking, and emotional honesty nurtures self-confidence.
Equally we must, as educators, be mindful of the subtle messages we send about gender roles and societal expectations. Comments, even those made in passing, about "traditional" paths for women or perceived limitations can have lasting impacts on a girl's confidence. Instead, conversations should emphasise the value of self-belief, initiative, and the endless possibilities available to girls who are now visible in more fields than ever before.
As we navigate the journey toward empowering young women through education, it’s clear that confidence plays a pivotal role in their success. Of course, cultivating such confidence is often easier said than done. It requires a supportive environment that not only encourages but actively nurtures self-belief. Educational theorists like Bandura remind us that confidence is not a static trait but a dynamic, developable quality. As educators, families, and communities, we have the power to shape and reinforce this critical aspect of our students' development.
When confidence falters, growth and learning can stagnate, posing a significant challenge to inspiring and nurturing future generations. Therefore, nurturing confidence in girls is not just an investment in their individual success but a vital step in the journey to empowering the female leaders and innovators of the future.
Thank you for 2024 SpringART
The College was certainly buzzing last weekend with over 600 people visiting the SpringART exhibition. The College Square and surrounding spaces were transformed into a tapestry of creativity—each work of art reflected unique perspectives, innovative techniques, and heartfelt inspirations. These works were more than art; they were a testament to the collective effort of fostering artistic excellence and sparking cultural dialogue.
The College would like to thank those that supported this special event. We would also like to thank the following sponsors and donors:
Booth Real Estate
MPH Architects
Fresh FM
Glen Ewin
James Thredgold
Plus One Dress Hire
Grandeur Wellington
Burnside Village
SA Life
Frameworks
Art to Art
Eckersley's
Art Images Gallery
Kylie McCullah
Principal