Craighead diocesan school
PRINCIPAL – LINDY GR AHAM
Craighead Diocesan School first opened as a school for girls in May 1911, with six boarders and 11 day girls. Now, in 2020, the school has grown, adapted and changed. Craighead has evolved into a progressive, high performing school serving a wide geographic region. It is big enough to offer a wide range of opportunities in the arts, culture, academia, and sports but still small enough to retain a strong sense of community and belonging.
State-integrated since 1980, Craighead offers a values-based Christian education in the Anglican tradition. It has the advantage of providing both a modern learning and living experience, based in Timaru.
As a leading secondary school in South Canterbury, Craighead’s main goal is to inspire and support its students to achieve their own personal excellence, whatever that might be.
The Year 13 Student Leaders for 2020 have chosen the phrase ‘Be Bold’ for their overarching theme.
They recognise the need for today’s young women to be the leaders of tomorrow; to be creative and innovative, resourceful, collaborative yet grounded. So, how are we supporting their vision to be bold?
First of all, academic excellence is a priority. However, relationships are also key to thriving as a member of a school community. Students must feel a sense of connectedness and belonging. This year, the school has introduced vertical whānau groups.
The ‘big sisters’ are relishing the relationships with their younger peers – and having a lot of fun together.
Secondly, today’s young people are facing numerous challenges associated with technology. Girls in particular are susceptible to the impact of social media. Most schools have noticed an associated increase in anxiety. With our commitment to student wellbeing, we have placed a restriction on access to mobile phones during school hours. The immediate effect of this initiative is in seeing, and hearing, more face-to-face connection between students during break times.
Thirdly, the school maintains its focus on its core business – teaching and learning. In addition, mindful of preparing young women for the global world, Craighead offers a future focus programme to its junior students based on the STEAM subjects. Girls are able to choose which areas they wish to delve into, opting (with guidance) for whatever suits their passion or interests.
Craighead continues to evolve as a relevant, dynamic school of choice for those families who desire a single sex Special Character education within a family atmosphere. Come along and see what Craighead might offer your daughter – you would be very welcome to attend our Open Day on 17 May 2020.