Welcome
Korowa is an open entry, independent girls’ school that has been leading the way in education since 1890. Renowned for our consistently outstanding results, broad range of opportunities and welcoming community, Korowa has a long and impressive history of educating girls to go out into the world with a sense of purpose. A Korowa student is courageous, generous, compassionate and purposeful.
Our students are at the centre of all that we do. We support each student to find their voice, to find their way in the world and to be the best person they can be. We recognise each student’s unique identity and strive to provide them with an outstanding education, from providing the right learning environment to ensuring the School is a safe and engaging space, to delivering a vibrant co-curricular program which encourages them to try new things and be active members of the community.
Our teachers are experts in their fields. They are highly skilled educators who are committed to supporting students not only to learn, but to take calculated risks and explore for themselves. We want our students to be strong and resilient so that they are not defeated by setbacks, but rather spurred on to try and try again.
Learning at Korowa extends beyond the classroom through our extensive co-curricular program in sport, visual arts, music, drama, dance and debating. We encourage our students to step out of their comfort zones, to try something different and to make new friends along the way.
I am both delighted and humbled to lead Korowa as its tenth Principal. I am passionate about girls’ education and about positively preparing young people for their lives beyond school. Supporting them to develop the skills of perseverance, determination, self-awareness and self-regulation is essential, as these are vital skills for life! These young people are our future leaders.
I look forward to welcoming your family to Korowa.
Frances Booth Principal
Our purpose
To develop students who are authentic, confident and strong. They dare to try They question the world They act with integrity And they make a difference.
Our values
COURAGE
Our students dare to try, are audacious, brave and fearless.
CURIOSITY
In a world filled with wonder, our students are not afraid to ask questions, they are eager to learn, to understand and to explore the world around them.
INTEGRITY
We respect ourselves, others and the world. We have empathy, are honest, compassionate and value diversity.
Our students
At Korowa, we strive to create an educational environment that nurtures and supports our students’ growth and development. Our goal is to help them develop into well-rounded individuals who are equipped with the values, knowledge and skills they need to succeed in life. Korowa students are encouraged to challenge themselves, embrace new experiences and push personal boundaries. They are taught to be critical thinkers, problem-solvers and effective communicators, all of which are essential attributes for success in a rapidly changing world. We support students to discover their passions and pursue their goals, no matter what challenges they may face along the way. Through a range of academic, sporting, and creative opportunities, students are encouraged to develop a well-rounded perspective on the world and to gain a deep appreciation for the diversity of cultures and ideas that surround them. This helps to instil a strong sense of empathy, compassion and respect, and prepares our girls to be leaders in their communities and beyond.
Our students are confident, capable individuals, poised to make a positive impact. They leave school with a solid foundation of knowledge and skills, and a determination to make a difference in the world. They will defy expectations.
Click here to take a look at our Sports and Wellbeing Centre
Building foundations EARLY LEARNING CENTRE
The early years lay the foundations for ongoing education and wellbeing. Our Early Learning Centre encourages discovery and exploration as we support our youngest students to become capable inquirers and lifelong learners. We value the innate curiosity that drives our learners to explore the world and provide opportunities to discover through play and ‘doing’ every day.
Our Early Learning Program caters to three-and fouryear-old children in a stimulating learning environment that allows them to construct meaning from the world. Rich play experiences support each child’s development.
Influenced by and founded on the latest research, our curriculum is designed to develop the foundations of learning. Specialist programs such as Art, Music, Science, Yoga, Swimming and our Perceptual Motor Program (PMP) are embedded within the program.
School life beginsJUNIOR
SCHOOL
In our Junior School your child will develop a genuine love of learning. In this inspiring, nurturing environment, students build social and emotional wellbeing as well as academic knowledge and skills. Students discover school is a wonderful place to be. The early years are about curiosity, confidence, persistence, imagination, problem-solving and investigating. The foundations for a purposeful learning journey are set. Students are encouraged to develop independence, resilience, a love of learning and strong friendships with peers.
As students move through Junior School, a broader and deeper curriculum is introduced, giving students the chance to experience a range of subjects. Abstract ideas are explored and students are supported to step outside of their learning comfort zones. From Prep, students participate in a specialist Science program in the purpose-built Junior School Science Laboratory. Commencing from Year 2, students take part in a camp program starting with a day camp and building on this experience each year to the final trip in Year 6, the Canberra Capital Tour.
Every student from Prep to Year 4 is provided with an iPad for use in the classroom to support their learning. From Year 5, all students use a laptop computer to further enhance the teaching and learning program.
There is a focus on developing good character and preparing students for secondary school through leadership, fostering independence and encouraging initiative.
Find their community
LEARNING IN YEARS 7 AND 8
Students in Years 7 and 8 enjoy learning, teaching and co-curricular programs designed specifically for girls in their early teenage years. Located together in the Cripps Centre, there is a focus not only on supporting these students as they make the transition, but on establishing strong academic foundations, developing new friendships, building confidence and creating a feeling of belonging to the Korowa community. We encourage all our students to get involved, to try new things and make the most of everything on offer.
A broad core curriculum allows students to experience a range of subjects and fields of enquiry. Extension opportunities are available to engage students at a higher level through enrichment programs as well as an array of competitions such as Write a Book in a Day, Da Vinci Decathalon and Tournament of Minds.
Students use laptop computers to further enhance their learning and access a number of online resources including Korowa’s learning management system.
Formal and informal leadership roles provide students with opportunities to develop leadership, collaboration, project management and problem-solving skills.
Our outdoor education program and wide array of cocurricular activities complement classroom learning, while facilitating opportunities to meet like-minded peers and develop new friendships.
Students enjoy a supportive learning culture and environment. They discover talents and personal strengths, while being challenged to take calculated risks. Students build resilience, confidence and a strong sense of achievement.
Challenge and choice
Year 9 at Korowa is a year of challenge and choice. The focus is on further developing confidence, character and resilience. Students embrace leadership, service and compassion as core themes.
In addition to core subjects, students expand their learning horizons with a wide range of electives in areas of interest. From Dance, Art, Music and Drama to Commerce, Physical Education, Food Studies and Science, it is an opportunity for students to try new things and discover their passions.
YEAR 9
A highlight of Year 9 is the immersive extended program that operates at the end of the year. Students have the option to select between two experiential immersion programs:
Trek
Trek is Korowa’s iconic four-week, point-to-point wilderness adventure which has been operating for more than 25 years. Considered a rite of passage at Korowa, more than 1000 students have participated in the program. Students learn to be self-sufficient campers as they venture by foot, bike and raft from the Victorian Alps to Ninety Mile Beach. Trek develops self-esteem, confidence, leadership and interpersonal skills as students navigate often difficult and stressful situations.
Quest
The alternative experience is Quest, an immersive four-week program which includes an extended residential component. Students are engaged in service projects, which challenge them to step outside their day-to-day routines. In small teams, students negotiate and collaborate to complete projects, while creating and sustaining a healthy community. This program also develops self-esteem, confidence, leadership and interpersonal skills as students work collegially to problem solve, think critically and creatively and learn new skills.
The final yearsLEARNING
Years 10 to 12 at Korowa are exciting for students as they work towards completing their secondary school education and look to future possibilities. With a broad range of subjects on offer, students can pursue their individual interests, strengths and career goals. Students are supported by passionate educators who are not only focused on teaching students but listening and inspiring them to achieve their personal best. In addition, there are various support systems and staff who proactively help students navigate their journey through VCE. These include Heads of Year, VCE Coordinator, Student Futures careers support, School Counsellor, School Psychologist, Learning Support and VCE Mentors who work closely with students, checking in and discussing progress one-on-one.
IN YEARS 10 TO 12
At this stage of their school lives, students are independent learners. We encourage them to take ownership of their personal learning journey and to make decisions that best set them up for success. In Years 11 and 12 students have access to the VCE Centre, a dedicated space where they can socialise and study. Located close to the Senior School Library and VCE staff means there is easy access to resources.
We encourage our students, particularly throughout their VCE years, to strive for a balance between academic studies and other interests by continuing to participate in our co-curricular program and taking up leadership opportunities.
WELLBEING
At Korowa, we understand that wellbeing is crucial for academic success and overall happiness. We are committed to fostering a supportive environment that encompasses the pillars of academic, physical, social and emotional wellbeing. With a focus on creating a positive and inclusive environment, our dedicated staff provide students with the resources and strategies to thrive both inside and outside the classroom and beyond the gates of Korowa. From Early Learning through to the VCE years, we are committed to supporting every student’s journey towards a healthy, balanced and fulfilling life. Our proactive approach equips students with the skills and capacity to take responsibility for their own wellbeing.
In the early years, students are encouraged to forge strong, positive relationships and focus on using restorative practices. This continues into the junior years, where the relationship between wellbeing and learning becomes more apparent and woven into the school experience.
In the senior years, our holistic approach to wellbeing is delivered through tailored classroom learning and personal development sessions, allowing our students to safely explore who they are, where they fit in the world and how they can shape and influence it.
Ultimately, Korowa empowers students to develop an understanding of what underpins their own wellbeing.
Developing
people of good character
Make every day count
Korowa’s rich co-curricular program encourages students to expand their horizons while developing new skills, passions and connections.
SportThrough our inclusive and diverse sport program, students from all year levels can try new things, develop skills and build physical health and wellbeing.
In the early years, students develop fundamental movement skills and physical fitness, building confidence and finding passions. Students in Junior School can participate in netball, basketball and the School Sport Victoria (SSV) competition including cross country, diving, soccer, swimming and track and field.
Senior students are encouraged to participate in Girls Sport Victoria (GSV), an interschool sport competition comprising various sports across each term. In addition, there are strong programs in rowing, snowsports, netball, basketball and volleyball.
Our recently completed Sports and Wellbeing Centre, as well as our River Campus located on the Yarra River, 10 minutes from school, support our extensive Sports program.
Clubs
Korowa’s diverse range of clubs are typically run by students, for students. Through clubs, students develop leadership, communication and collaboration skills as well as cross-year connections with like-minded peers.
Junior School students may join STEAM Club, Chess Club, Fitness Club, Art Club, Environment Group, Dance Club, Debating Club and the Spelling Bee Club.
Senior students may join Student Representative Council, Social Service, Palm Leaf Committee, Environment Group, Prism, Writers’ Club, Chess Club, Art Club and Book Club.
Performing Arts
From the early years through to VCE, our students express themselves and take to the stage. Performance opportunities alternate annually between the middle years (Years 7 to 9) and the senior years (Years 10 to 12). A Junior School production (Years 3 to 6) is held bi-annually.
Designated dance and drama spaces in the Sports and Wellbeing Centre, combined with our dedicated and passionate staff, support students to bring their performances to life!
Debating
Debating at Korowa provides a platform for students to develop critical thinking, research, communication, public speaking and teamwork skills. Students from Years 6 to 12 may participate in internal debates, while our Year 6 students can also take part in interschool debating. Students from Years 8 to 12 participate in the Debating Association of Victoria’s (DAV) Schools Competition.
Music
We offer a wide range of musical opportunities for students of all levels and abilities, including choir, ensemble and private instrumental tuition.
Students participate in concerts, musical performances and competitions, developing their performance skills, building confidence and showcasing their musical talent to a wide audience.
The F1 in
TechnologySchoolsChallenge
This global STEM competition sees Korowa students design, test and create F1 model block cars. Working in small teams, students learn to use industry-standard design and manufacturing technologies and develop skills in physics, aerodynamics and business. It is the largest and most competitive secondary school STEM competition, involving schools from over 44 countries.
SIGNATURE PROGRAMS
Signature Programs are unique to Korowa and complement our curricular offering. Through tailored, real-life learning experiences, students are extended both within and beyond the classroom, building confidence and skills.
For our younger students, Signature Programs include peer support, leadership development, Performing Arts opportunities, community service, character development and academic extension. They vary by year level starting at ELC with sports days, Swimming, the Perceptual Motor Program (PMP) and the Annual Art Show. In Prep, students participate in Mini Singers, Mini Strings, Athletics Day, chess and more. As they progress through Junior School the offering expands with camps, service learning and specialist Science programs.
In Senior School we continue to build on the outdoor education program, with opportunities including the globally recognised Duke of Edinburgh's International Award.
Our Student Futures program supports students as they consider future careers and study. Other Signature Programs include sports days, K-Service, House events, leadership opportunities, university residential programs, Drama productions, Music performances, a student-led podcast series, F1 in Schools Challenge and more.
House system
Korowa’s vibrant and inclusive House system supports our commitment to providing diverse opportunities for every student. Our four Houses are Akehurst (grey), Clarke (pink), Jamieson (blue) and Wilkinson (cherry).
Annual events include House Sport, House Swimming, House Athletics, House Cross Country, House Chorals (Music, Drama and Dance), House Debating and House Arts. Our Year 12 House Captains help coordinate these events and encourage all students to participate.
Students remain in the same House throughout their entire Korowa journey, making friendships and connections across the School. Family members are allocated to the same House, which creates a sense of tradition and belonging.
IMMERSIVE LEARNING EXPERIENCES
Korowa offers a unique and unparalleled program of learning experiences, allowing students to broaden their horizons both within Australia and beyond. From Years 2 to 9 students participate in a program consisting of camps and outdoor education experiences designed to challenge students and encourage them to step outside of their comfort zones, resulting in increased independence and selfconfidence.
The programs are curated to provide a sequential, wellrounded experience, with each year level focusing on five areas: connection, adventure, community, nature, and fun. The program builds on the knowledge and skills established in previous years, helping students understand how to apply these skills in their daily lives and future learning.
A highlight of the program is the Year 9 four-week experience where students have the option to select between two experiential programs: Trek, Korowa’s iconic point-to-point wilderness adventure, or Quest, an immersive program including a residential stay. Both programs develop self-esteem, confidence, leadership and interpersonal skills as students work together to problem solve, think critically and creatively and learn new skills.
Years 10 and 11 students participate in residential university programs to experience a taste of the tertiary education environment. Students grow personally and academically through tailored workshops, lectures and self-directed learning.
In addition, there are opportunities to attend language immersive experiences to France, Germany and Japan including an exchange component as well as overseas experiences to the USA, UK and Europe, facilitated by external providers. Such opportunities enhance learning and offer students a truly global perspective.
STUDENT FUTURES
At Korowa we empower our students to be self-aware, curious and courageous. Student Futures is an integrated, multifaceted program offering three strands: pathways, innovation and entrepreneurship, and accreditations. A combination of internal programs, curriculum-based units and co-curricular opportunities allows students in Years 7 to 12 to develop skills, knowledge, confidence and capabilities in the context of an ever-changing workforce. This sequential experience supports students to achieve their goals while preparing them for their futures beyond school.
A three-strand multifaceted program
Pathways
Looking into the future, being opened-minded, curious and courageous to discover directions for the future.
Innovation and Entrepreneurship
Side hustles and developing small business ideas.
Accreditations
Undertaking courses and establishing job-ready skills. First Aid, RSA, Food Safe Handling, coaching, umpiring, etc.
The Student Futures Program incorporates careers education, character and interests profiling and strengths identification. Residential experiences at a university campus give students an insight into university life, while our seminar series equips them with valuable life skills.
A chance to lead
Korowa provides a range of formal and informal leadership opportunities across both the Junior and Senior Schools. These help students develop critical skills including confidence, collaboration, project management and problem-solving when working with student groups and other school leaders.
Formal leadership opportunities include official captaincy positions and roles in sport, music, House, service and environmental initiatives. Informal opportunities include clubs, teams and other co-curricular activities.
Leadership skills are essential for success in all areas of life, and Korowa recognises the importance of providing students with the tools they need to thrive. Through these programs, students can develop their communication, teamwork and decision-making skills. They also learn to take responsibility, set goals and work towards them with determination.
Korowa is committed to supporting students as they grow and develop into confident, effective leaders. By providing these opportunities, Korowa helps students gain a sense of purpose and direction, preparing them for a successful future.
“I have had the privilege of holding various leadership positions across my years at Korowa. This has taught me that you don’t have to be the most confident or the most talented to lead, you just have to care and try to do your best for your community. I now feel confident that I am well equipped to use my voice to help others, and I credit that to the leadership positions I have held, including being School Co-Captain”.
Molly, Year 12
IMPORTANCE OF CONNECTIONS
Korowa is more than just a school. It is a community that includes not only our current students and families but our staff, Korovians, past families and friends. It is this welcoming, connected and inclusive community that makes Korowa special.
There are several groups and clubs that families can join to support their daughters’ interests and meet new friends. These include parent support groups for various sports, Friends of the Arts, Dads' Group, Friendship Group and more.
When students graduate, they automatically become members of the Korovian Club, Korowa’s alumni association. The Club was founded in 1917 to help Korovians, Korowa’s alumni, stay connected with their school network.
Through the generosity of our community, the Korowa Foundation, established in 1990, supports the School’s continued development with financial support for building projects, along with support for our scholarship and bursary programs.
Always a Korovian
ALUMNI
The Korovian community is a vibrant and supportive network of alumni who stay connected long after they leave the School. There are more than 7000 living alumni who now reside throughout Australia and across the world. Through special interest events and an extensive reunion program. Korovians have the opportunity to reconnect with one another, sharing memories and creating new ones.
However, being part of the Korovian community is about more than just attending events. It is about staying connected with the School and its values, providing philanthropic support and providing a sense of belonging.
The Korovian Club is a contemporary organisation that actively supports the School in all of its endeavours. The annual Korovian Fellowship Grant recognises altruism through social enterprise and the Club facilitates mentoring opportunities with current students and immediate past students through events and its LinkedIn group.
The alumni are an integral part of our community and the School is proud of the diversity of their achievements. They live their lives based on the School Motto, Palma Non Sine Pulvere – no reward without effort.
WHERE ARE WE?
Korowa is located in the quiet and leafy suburb of Glen Iris, just 10kms south-east of Melbourne’s CBD. The area is well-connected by public transport, only a short 5-minute walk from the Glen Iris Train Station and a 10-15 minute walk walk from several tram stops. There is also easy road access via the nearby Monash Freeway.
Our Campuses
Public Transport
Korowa Anglican Girls' School
10-16 Ranfurlie Cres, Glen Iris VIC 3146
Korowa River Campus 162 Alexandra Ave, South Yarra VIC 3141
Glen Iris Train Station
Glen Waverley line with several other train lines connecting at Richmond Station, less than a 30-minute trip.
Bus 612
Box Hill – Chadstone via Surrey Hills, Camberwell and Glen Iris
Bus 734
Glen Iris - Glen Waverley
Bus 624
Kew - Oakleigh via Caulfield, Carnegie, Darling and Chadstone
Tram 5
Melbourne University – Malvern (City, Dandenong Road, Windsor, Armadale)
Tram 6
Moreland – Glen Iris (Lygon Street, Brunswick, City, High Street, Armadale)
Tram 72
Melbourne University – Camberwell (City, Commercial Road, Prahran, Glen Iris)
For more information on public transport timetables, maps and Myki visit www.ptv.vic.gov.au
