Intrigued by a school with a motto like “Through trials to triumph?” That’s Auckland Girls’ Grammar School. It stands proudly in Newton. Auckland Girls’ Grammar School is more than just bricks and mortar. It is a vibrant place of learning.
Auckland Girls’ Grammar School started as Auckland Girls’ High School in 1878. This makes it one of New Zealand’s oldest secondary schools. Imagine the determination of those first students.
Times were tough. Auckland Girls’ Grammar School temporarily closed in 1888 due to money problems. For a while girls attended classes at Auckland Grammar School. But the spirit of Auckland Girls’ Grammar School never died.
In 1909 Auckland Girls’ Grammar School found its new home on Howe Street. The name changed to Auckland Girls’ Grammar School. This marked a new chapter.
The school’s main building is a Category II Historic Place. Think about the history held within those walls. Auckland Girls’ Grammar School won awards for School and Secondary School of the Year in 2000.
Auckland Girls’ Grammar School is diverse. In 2018 there were 1030 students all girls. The school had a rich mix of cultures. 23% were Māori. 23% were Samoan. 16% were Tongan. 13% were Asian. 6% were Niuean. 6% were Indian. Only 3% were New Zealand European.
Many talented women have walked these halls of Auckland Girls’ Grammar School. Frankie Adams became an actress. Zoë Bell became a stuntwoman and actress. Sue Bradford became a politician and activist. Rose Matafeo became a comedian. Parris Goebel became an international choreographer. These are just a few of the notable alumnae of Auckland Girls’ Grammar School.
Auckland Girls’ Grammar School has had many dedicated headmistresses. Annie Whitelaw was the first in 1906. Ngaire Ashmore is the current principal. She took over in 2017.
Did you know that in 1888, 78 girls shared a site on Symonds Street with the boys from Auckland Grammar School. Significant efforts were made to keep the boys and girls apart. The girls even had a separate entrance. There was also a 14-foot wall dividing the playground. Auckland Girls’ Grammar School really wanted to forge its own identity.
Auckland Girls’ Grammar School remains committed to educating young women. It embraces social responsiveness. The school closely mirrors the developments shaping New Zealand society. Auckland Girls’ Grammar School has always been at the forefront of education. Auckland Girls’ Grammar School is not just a school. It’s a legacy. It’s a place where young women are empowered to overcome trials and achieve triumph.