Cultivating Excellence Through a Balanced Approach to Education
Central to the educational philosophy at Stuartholme School is the holistic development of each student, ensuring they are well-rounded individuals in all aspects of school life. In 2024, the school is breaking barriers in sport participation and achieving remarkable milestones.
Sporting engagement at Stuartholme has soared, with an impressive 80% of students actively involved in sports and physical activities throughout Term 1. This achievement represents a substantial increase from previous years, with nearly 600 students participating in various sporting activities, marking a growth of over 24%. Notable increases have been observed in sports such as Netball, Cricket, Water Polo, and Rugby 7s, further diversifying the sporting landscape.
Despite the demands of senior year, Stuartholme maintains an average of 72% participation among senior students in school sports. Through a diverse range of sporting offerings, including the S60 and Athlete Development Program, students are empowered to customise their co-curricular experiences, balancing academic pursuits with athletic endeavours.
The pursuit of excellence extends beyond the school grounds, as demonstrated by Year 12 student and Cross Country Captain Gretta Johnson, who represented Australia at the Under 20’s World Athletics Cross Country Championships in Belgrade, Serbia. Her performance, finishing 53rd overall, 5th among the Australian competitors and completing a 6 Km race in 22.44 minutes, exemplifies her dedication and hard work.
Stuartholme’s sporting prowess extends nationally and internationally, with students representing Queensland at various national levels in sports such as Athletics, Equestrian, Canoe Polo, Tennis, Rowing and Softball, to check out the sporting achievements we invite you to read the latest edition of the Cor Unum. Internationally, the Stuartholme School all-girls Rugby 7s team proudly represented Australia at the 2023 Rugby World Cup in France, showcasing their talent on the global stage.
Stuartholme students are inspired by empowering figures like Emma McCarthy, the Director of Sport and an accomplished Rower. Ms McCarthy’s recent appointment as Coach for Rowing Queensland further underscores Stuartholme’s commitment to fostering excellence in sports leadership.
Earlier this year, Stuartholme School hosted the Ord Minnett Australian Stingers in a two-game match against Canada, showcasing Stuartholme’s world-class pool facilities and providing the community with an opportunity to witness Water Polo excellence firsthand.
Research conducted by the University of Sydney underscores the importance of a balanced approach to education. Involvement in sports has been linked to higher academic performance and increased attendance rates. Furthermore, participation in sports enhances students’ literacy and numeracy skills, fosters goal-setting abilities, and promotes self-reliance, all of which contribute to improved academic outcomes.
Dr Katherine Owen, a researcher involved in the study, emphasises “the positive correlation between continued sports participation and academic success.” Stuartholme School embodies this ethos by providing students with over 15 sporting opportunities, alongside a dynamic Arts and Social Justice Program, encouraging students to excel both inside and outside the classroom.
Through a balanced approach to education, Stuartholme is committed to providing an education that transcends traditional boundaries, nurturing students who are not only academically proficient but also physically active, socially conscious, and equipped with the skills to step up and thrive in all facets of life.
