Head of School
Welcome!
May I introduce myself?
I
was born in South Africa, grew up in Australia (Sydney) and then
lived in Zimbabwe. I have been back since 1992, teaching English
and Drama in Caloundra and Hervey Bay, both in Queensland. Before
taking up the position of Head of The Glennie School (in May 2001)
I was Deputy Principal of Fraser Coast Anglican College in Hervey
Bay.
I am delighted to be leading such a great school as The Glennie.
The School has an excellent record of achievement, a rich heritage,
a strong sense of Christian community and a wonderful tradition
of pastoral care and personal development.
My philosophy of education is child-centred and learner-focused.
Each individual girl is very important to me. In a world of rapid
change and constant insecurity, our girls' sense of who they are,
and confidence in what they can do, need to be well-developed. They
need to value themselves and each other highly, settle only for
the best in life, and learn to build rich relationships to sustain
them. They need a global perspective as well as being proud to be
Australian.
As a Church school we have a mandate to teach and live out the
word of God within this community. Our Anglican ethos directs us
to be tolerant of others but firm in our faith. We strive for academic
excellence and value each individual and her own unique talents.
We provide a wide range of co-curricular activities so that each
girl can explore her interests and find her niche. Our outstanding
facilities help us to do this, but it is our staff who really make
the difference. They are a caring and dedicated group of professionals
with a wealth of experience in teaching and understanding girls.
As a boarding school, we see our boarders as central to the culture
and spirit of the school.
We are innovative in our programs, embracing technology within
each learning area. From Year 7 onwards, our girls use notebook computers extensively.
Thus they have the technology with them rather than having to wait
for access to a desktop computer. We enjoy extensive
use of wireless technology which ensures flexibility for staff and students.
We welcome international as well as indigenous students to Glennie, enjoying the benefits of multiculturalism which a diverse community offers our girls.
Another special offering is the French immersion program, which
allows girls in Years 8, 9 and 10 to study half their subjects in
French as well as travel to France and spend time in a French school.
Our vocational education program in the senior
secondary years is extensive, with work experience for Year 10 students and access
to a wide range of school-based traineeships in Years 11 and 12.
Glennie girls have achieved in a wide range of pursuits in all
walks of life. The Old Girls Association and the Parents' and Friends'
Association are strong and very supportive of The School.
I hope that you might find the time to visit us in person and experience
for yourself, the Glennie ethos and spirit!
Mrs Wendy Ashley-Cooper
B.A., Grad. Cert. Ed., B.A. (Hons), B. Ed., M. Ed.Admin, MACEL
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