the confidence to pursue their dreams, the support to overcome challenges, and the tools to stand up for themselves. For this important day, we look at how our school community nurtures and encourages young girls to thrive, while emphasising the importance of respect, and how all members of the school – both girls and boys – play a role in this empowerment journey.

The importance of empowering girls in education

Empowering girls through education is a fundamental aspect of building an equitable society. Research consistently demonstrates that when girls receive a quality education, they are more likely to contribute to the economy, improve their communities, and make informed decisions regarding their health and future. According to a UNESCO report, educated women are more likely to achieve better employment outcomes, break cycles of poverty, and provide better opportunities for their children.

At All Saints Grammar, we strive to create an environment where girls from PreKinder to Year 12 feel encouraged to pursue their passions, be it in the classroom, in the sciences, on the sports field, or in the arts. Our dedicated teachers foster an atmosphere of inquiry and creativity, helping each student develop the self-assurance to take on challenges and excel in their chosen fields. As a school committed to academic excellence, we understand the importance of developing confident, competent young women who can navigate the world with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed.

Respect: a pillar of our school community

One of the core pillars at All Saints Grammar is Respect – for oneself, for others, and for the world around us. Respect is foundational to everything we do, from how we treat each other in the classroom to how we work together in groups. It is particularly vital when empowering girls and creating a supportive environment where they feel safe, valued, and heard.

Respecting and valuing girls’ opinions, interests, and talents is essential to their development. Whether it’s encouraging a girl to speak up in class, supporting her passion for a STEM subject, or providing her with the resources and guidance to explore leadership roles, we are fostering a sense of worth that enables her to step confidently into the world.

It is important to note that respect extends beyond the school walls. Teaching young men and boys to show respect for their female peers is just as important as empowering girls themselves. In this way, respect becomes a mutual value – a two-way street that strengthens the entire school community and nurtures understanding between genders.

At All Saints Grammar, promoting equality is at the heart of everything we do. Empowering girls doesn’t mean disempowering boys; it means creating an environment where every individual, regardless of gender, has the opportunity to thrive. True equality requires that we challenge outdated stereotypes, break down barriers, and encourage both girls and boys to pursue their passions without limitations. By fostering a culture where both genders are equally valued and supported, we lay the foundation for a more inclusive, just, and equal community. It is essential that we teach the next generation that equality isn’t a competition – it’s a shared responsibility, where every voice is heard and every person is respected for who they are, regardless of gender, age, religion or culture.

5 Practical ways to empower girls: a guide for parents

As parents, we play an essential role in empowering our daughters. Here are some practical steps you can take at home to build their confidence and resilience.

1. Encourage open communication

Let your daughter know that her voice matters. Encourage her to speak openly about her ideas, concerns, and dreams. Show her that you value her opinions and that she can influence her own future.

2. Provide opportunities for growth

Whether it’s enrolling her in extracurricular activities or giving her the chance to explore new subjects, provide opportunities that challenge and nurture her abilities. This could include leadership roles in school clubs, debating, or joining teams where she can develop her teamwork and problem-solving skills.

3. Model self-respect

Children learn from their parents. By modelling self-respect and demonstrating confidence in your own abilities, you show your daughter that she, too, can have confidence in herself. Encourage her to embrace challenges and see them as opportunities to grow.

4. Teach resilience

Life can be tough, and setbacks are inevitable. Teaching your daughter how to handle failure with grace, to learn from mistakes, and to persevere in the face of adversity will help her build resilience – a key trait for success.

5. Celebrate achievements

Take time to recognise your daughter’s accomplishments, both big and small. Acknowledging her hard work fosters a sense of pride and motivates her to keep striving towards her goals.

5 Ways girls can empower themselves: advice for students

Girls, remember that you can achieve anything you set your mind to. However, empowerment requires more than just receiving encouragement from others; it requires action on your part. Here are some key ways you can empower yourself.

1. Believe in yourself

The first step toward empowerment is self-belief. Trust your abilities, take pride in your strengths, and embrace the challenges that come your way. Remember, self-doubt is natural, but it should never hold you back from pursuing your dreams.

2. Speak up and advocate for yourself

If you ever feel like your voice isn’t being heard, stand up for yourself. Whether in class, at a meeting, or in a conversation with peers, know that your opinions matter. Speak with confidence and assertiveness, always respecting others, but don’t be afraid to make your presence known.

3. Support each other

True empowerment comes from building each other up, not tearing each other down. Stand together with your female peers and offer support when needed. Whether it’s a kind word, sharing an idea, or helping each other overcome challenges, solidarity is key.

4. Stay curious and ambitious

Don’t limit yourself to what is comfortable or what others expect of you. Pursue areas that interest you, regardless of whether they are traditionally male-dominated subjects like technology, science, or sports. Ambition and curiosity are your best tools in breaking barriers.

5. Respect yourself and others

One of the most powerful ways to empower yourself is through self-respect. Respect your time, your boundaries, and your values. Treat others with respect, as well as this creates a community where everyone feels valued and appreciated.

4 Ways boys and men can help empower girls

While much of the conversation about empowerment has historically focused on women, it is equally important for men and boys to be allies in this mission. Empowering girls is not a challenge to boys; it’s a mutual effort that enriches society as a whole. Here are just some of the ways boys and men can help empower girls.

1. Champion equality

Support your female peers in their pursuits, whether that’s in sports, leadership roles, or academic interests. Celebrate their achievements and stand up against gender-based inequality.

2. Challenge gender norms

Reject stereotypes that limit both girls and boys. Encourage each other to break free from traditional gender roles and to embrace diverse interests and careers, regardless of societal expectations.

3. Be an ally and advocate

When you see inequality or disrespect, speak out. Use your voice to advocate for fairness and equality. Being an ally means using your position of privilege to help others rise. Remember that the behaviour you walk-by is the behaviour you accept.

4. Model respectful behaviour

Lead by example. Show respect in your actions and words, both inside and outside of the classroom. When boys and men treat women with respect, it sends a powerful message about mutual dignity and equality.

At All Saints Grammar, we take great pride in empowering both girls and boys, teaching them the values of respect, responsibility, and resilience. By fostering an environment of mutual respect and offering opportunities for growth, we are shaping the leaders of tomorrow. As we celebrate International Women’s Day, let’s continue to work together – girls, boys, parents, and teachers alike, to create a world where every young person can thrive and fulfill their potential. Let us all commit to respect, support, and encourage each other, for in empowering one, we empower all.

All Saints Grammar is a co-ed school for PreKinder to Year 12 based in Sydney’s Inner West, to learn more download our prospectus.

For further reading on the importance of girls’ education and empowerment, you can visit UNESCO’s Gender Equality Page.

Learn more about International Women’s Day in Australia.