Abbotsleigh
Abbotsleigh
Abbotsleigh is a distinguished independent Anglican school, offering comprehensive early learning, primary, and secondary education to girls. Located in Wahroonga, on the picturesque Upper North Shore of Sydney, New South Wales, Australia, the school has a rich history dating back to its establishment in 1885 on Sydney's lower north shore. Currently, Abbotsleigh caters to approximately 1,400 students, ranging from Transition to Year 12, with an inclusive boarding facility welcoming 170 students from Years 7 to 12.
As an esteemed member of various educational associations, including the Alliance of Girls' Schools Australasia (AGSA), the Junior School Heads Association of Australia (JSHAA), the Association of Heads of Independent Schools of Australia (AHISA), the Australian Boarding Schools' Association (ABSA), and a founding member of the Association of Heads of Independent Girls' Schools (AHIGS), the school upholds its commitment to excellence in education of its students.
Abbotsleigh's location on the Upper North Shore offers a serene and nurturing environment, fostering a strong sense of community and camaraderie among students, teachers, and staff. The school's dedication to academic excellence and personal growth is evident in its well-rounded and comprehensive curriculum, designed to inspire a love of learning, critical thinking, and creativity.
Programs in Abbotsleigh
Abbotsleigh is an independent Anglican school that offers an enriching Early Learning Centre experience for young children. The school's core principles, which include the Christian ethos, pursuit of personal and academic excellence, respect for others, a will to serve, parental involvement, and a balanced education, shape the policies and practices of the Early Learning Centre.
Recognizing the importance of early learning as the foundation for future development, Abbotsleigh is committed to building strong relationships with parents to ensure their child's happiness, well-being, and success in learning. The Early Learning Centre provides a stimulating and safe environment where children are encouraged to explore, take initiative, and engage in imaginative play.
Inspired by the Reggio Emilia approach and other leading early childhood philosophies, the school's programs encourage children to question, reflect, problem-solve, and express their discoveries through various artistic ways. Core literacy and numeracy skills are emphasized, but the school also places a strong focus on experiential-based learning, where girls learn by doing, taking risks, and applying new skills in real-life scenarios.
Abbotsleigh's physical surroundings play a significant role in the learning process, with well-designed classrooms equipped with technology and inspiring spaces such as the Abbotsleigh Centre for Environmental Education and Grace Cossington Smith Gallery. The Junior School's academic culture fosters creativity, diversity, and a supportive Christian context. Outside areas provide ample opportunities for play, exploration, and imagination.
As students progress to Years 7-9, the school encourages them to explore a broad range of subjects, establishing a strong foundation for informed choices in the future. The academic program includes subjects such as Christian Studies, English, Mathematics, Science, Geography, History, Chinese, French, German, Latin, Music, Visual Arts, Technology, PDHPE, and Expressive Movement/Creative Movement in Theatre.
Abbotsleigh's holistic approach to education aims to equip students with essential skills, knowledge, and confidence to thrive academically and personally. The school empowers them to become lifelong learners and compassionate contributors to society, well-prepared for their future endeavors.
At Abbotsleigh, a spirit of enquiry and excitement for learning permeates everything the school does. Abbotsleigh firmly believes that the middle years are crucial for expanding students' knowledge, skills, and relationships. The program is built upon a strong academic foundation and enriched by a diverse range of curricular and cocurricular offerings. With the extensive grounds and state-of-the-art facilities, creativity knows no bounds both inside and outside the classroom. Whether it's finding inspiration in the gardens of the Centre for Environmental Education during an English class or applying geometry concepts in the Grace Cossington Smith Gallery during a Maths class, the enthusiastic and innovative teachers are always leading the way.
A strong sense of belonging is fostered among the school’s girls through their allocation to small house tutor groups. Regular meetings with tutors, as well as attendance at Assembly and Chapel, provide ample opportunities for academic care and support. Healthy competition is encouraged through various house competitions, while additional support in the form of counseling, EAL/D, disability provisions, learning support, and gifted and talented programs is readily available. The Year 9 House Leaders exemplify the School Values and embrace inclusivity in the Middle School.
In the Senior College, the school offers a rich, challenging, and secure learning environment where every girl is empowered to reach her full potential in all aspects of life. The girls engage in a broad academic curriculum and are encouraged to explore a wide variety of co curricular activities. Leadership is ingrained in every student, and the school provides extensive opportunities for leadership development and practice. Each year the group undergoes appropriate leadership training and has the chance to lead younger girls in various capacities.
At the heart of Abbotsleigh lies the comprehensive academic and pastoral care program, prioritizing student wellbeing and resilience. Each girl is part of a House tutor group that meets regularly, engaging in service, leadership, academic, recreational, and creative pursuits that align with the Senior College's objectives. Abbotsleigh is committed to ensuring that every student feels supported, inspired, and empowered to thrive academically and personally during her time at the school.
School Life in Abbotsleigh
Abbotsleigh offers a wide array of co-curricular programs that complement the holistic learning approach. The commitment to excellence extends to sporting, music, and performing arts arenas, where the school encourages students to work together and show respect for others. Through various initiatives like the Duke of Edinburgh program, debating and public speaking, and participation in co-curricular clubs, students have the opportunity to develop initiative and enhance their leadership skills.
Abbotsleigh's dedication to providing comprehensive learning experiences extends to the AbbSchool programs, where students can opt for extended tuition classes. These programs allow students to explore personal interests, foster friendships, and work collaboratively while developing valuable leadership skills. The club's program acts as an extension of the academic curriculum, giving staff the opportunity to mentor and encourage students beyond the confines of the classroom.
In the realm of music, the school believes in the power of self-expression to enrich emotions. The music education programs are designed to foster skills in composing, performing, and listening, allowing students to express their intellect and imagination. Abbotsleigh offers detailed music programs encompassing three main avenues: classroom, extended tuition, and co-curricular options, available in both the Junior and Senior Schools. These avenues cater to the developmental needs of all students, from beginners to virtuosos.
Abbotsleigh classroom music programs are integrated into the curriculum for students from Pre K to Year 8, ensuring that every student experiences the joy of music. For those seeking individual instruction, the extended tuition program offers instrumental lessons with some of Sydney's leading instrumentalists and performers during the school day. Abbotsleigh provides lessons for a wide range of instruments, and most instruments are also available for hire from the school, ensuring that students have the necessary resources to pursue their musical passions.
Accommodation in Abbotsleigh
Abbotsleigh is home to approximately 150 boarders spanning Years 7 to 12. A significant majority, around 90%, of the boarders hail from country and regional NSW, creating a diverse and enriching environment. Abbotsleigh also welcomes students from overseas and greater Sydney, fostering a truly global community.
Boarders play an integral role in the school’s community, contributing to its vibrancy and adding a unique richness to the school experience. The close-knit boarding community nurtures lifelong friendships and teaches the girls to appreciate diverse perspectives and aspirations.
Abbotsleigh boarding houses are organized by year groups, with dedicated Boarding Coordinators and Resident Assistants overseeing the well-being of the girls. From waking them up in the morning to assisting with daily needs and academic support, the staff ensures that the boarders feel cared for and supported throughout their stay. The strong partnership between parents and coordinators is essential, involving regular communication about leave, academic progress, and pastoral concerns.
Future Prospects after study in Abbotsleigh
Abbotsleigh recognizes that the students are young adults and treats them as such. As they progress through the Senior College, the school provides them with a purpose-built Senior Studies Centre that offers not only specialist subject areas but also extensive common areas and breakout spaces. Year 12 students have the privilege of their own common room, empowering them to take responsibility for their time management and effective study habits.
Abbotsleigh believes in empowering each girl to strive for excellence and take ownership of her own learning journey. The teachers set high, yet realistic expectations, encouraging collaborative efforts between students and staff to ensure that each girl reaches her personal and academic best. The Senior College fosters a spirit of inquiry and innovative thinking, providing students with custom-tailored learning experiences that are challenging, rich, and thought-provoking.
Abbotsleigh understands the significance of post-secondary education in shaping the students' futures. Abbotsleigh offers comprehensive guidance and support to help students make informed decisions about their higher education options, whether it be pursuing further studies at prestigious Australian universities or exploring international study opportunities.
For international students interested in studying and working in Australia, there are various student visas and post-study work visas available. This opportunity provides valuable exposure to the Australian workforce, helping them develop their skills and networks.
Moreover, the Australian government encourages skilled and talented individuals to contribute to the country's workforce and community. For those who wish to stay and work in Australia permanently, there are pathways to apply for skilled migration visas, which may eventually lead to permanent residency or citizenship.
In case, if you need help with Guardianship and Homestay for international students in Australia in order to study in Abbotsleigh or other schools, please fill in application below or contact us directly.