A merger between Australia’s peak body for girls’ schools and the International Coalition of Girls’ Schools (ICGS) has been formed, uniting girls’ schools under one formidable banner.
The Alliance of Girls’ Schools Australasia (AGSA) said its merger with ICGS will create “a powerful and unparalleled global collaboration” involving 500 girls’ schools across 18 countries, representing over 300,000 students.
Loren Bridge, AGSA Executive Officer, said global connectivity can lift regional programming and resources to new heights and greater possibilities for the benefit of the girls' education.
“A single global organisation for girls' schools will facilitate professional connections for school leaders outside of traditional regional and sectorial associations in Australia,” Bridge told The Educator.
“It will open up formal and informal opportunities to share information, ideas and best practice with a much more diverse network of colleagues aiding efficiency, creativity and problem-solving capability. We be able to expand opportunities and programs for girls' schools in Australia.”
Bridge said this includes building teacher and student exchange programs, expanding research resources, connecting staff on a global resource sharing platform, and convening students to form a formidable network of young global changemakers.
“Global connectivity can lift regional programming and resources to new heights and greater possibilities for the benefit of the girls' education.”
Megan Murphy, ICGS Executive Director, is planning to visit New Zealand and Australia in the coming months to gain a first-hand understanding of the priorities, opportunities and challenges facing Australasian girls’ schools.
“We are excited to join forces with AGSA and use our combined strengths to advocate for the unique education provided by girls’ schools,” Murphy said.
“Together we aim to create a platform to raise up girls’ schools in their endeavours to create brave, inquisitive and unapologetic female leaders of the future,” she said.
The merger is expected to be completed by January 2024, following an 18-month transition period.