Walford recognised in Australian Education Awards

Walford Anglican School for Girls was thrilled to be the only South Australian all-girls’ school to be recognised at the 2024 Australian Education Awards.

Walford was an Excellence Awardee in two categories, Boarding School of the Year (the only South Australian school in this category) and Principal of the Year – Non-Government.

Excellence Awardee: Boarding School of the Year

For over 100 years, boarders, from regional South Australia and across the globe, have enriched our school community with their diverse backgrounds and experiences. At Walford, we are extremely proud of our boarding program, which provides a nurturing community where each boarder can belong, grow, find her place in the world, and forge a sisterhood of lifelong friends and advocates.

Dr Deborah Netolicky, Principal of Walford Anglican School for Girls, expressed the School's delight at this recognition: "Being recognised as a ‘Boarding School of the Year’ Excellence Awardee in the Australian Education Awards 2024 is a testament to Walford's unwavering dedication to providing an exceptional experience within our Boarding House."

Our boarding house is a modern complex where girls are assigned to cozy houses where they share communal spaces for socialising and relaxation. From impromptu movie nights to special dinners at the Fig Tree Café, bonds are forged that last a lifetime. Celebrating Boarders’ Week, and the rich homes, cultures and experiences our boarders bring, is a highlight each year.

"Our dedicated boarding staff are committed to truly knowing each girl and understanding their individual needs," notes Dr Netolicky. "We prioritise creating a welcoming, inclusive, and supportive environment that cultivates independence, self-confidence, and mutual respect among our girls."

While academic excellence remains paramount, Walford's boarding philosophy focuses on fostering individual talents and preparing students for life's challenges. With personalised attention, students receive support tailored to their strengths and interests. The school’s diverse co-curricular opportunities allow students to explore passions and develop skills beyond the Boarding House and classroom.

It is important to us that parents play an integral role in their daughter's educational journey and actively foster a collaborative partnership between home and school. Through regular communication channels such as phone calls, emails, social media updates, and online meetings, parents benefit from regular insights into their daughter’s academic progress, co-curricular activities, and overall wellbeing.

At Walford, we believe choosing Walford means more than choosing a school; it means choosing a nurturing community where your daughter can grow, thrive, and find her place in the world.

Excellence Awardee: Principal of the Year – Non-Government

The recognition of a Principal is not just an individual accolade but a reflection of an outstanding school with a stellar team and a wonderful community. This award is a testament to the collective achievements of Walford. Highlights include the exceptional academic results of the Walford Class of 2023, the glowing evaluation received by the Walford Junior School for its International Baccalaureate Primary Years Program, the successful launch of Walford’s 2023-2025 Strategic Plan, and the remarkable accomplishments of our students, such as the Walford Tournament of Minds STEM Team winning the International Championship.

Our Principal, Dr Deborah Netolicky, expressed her pride in the School’s achievements, saying, “This award is a recognition of the hard work, dedication, and passion that define the Walford community. Our students, staff, and families are the heart of our school, and it is their commitment to excellence that makes these accomplishments possible. I am incredibly proud of what we have achieved together and excited for what lies ahead.”

Dr Netolicky is a visionary and consultative leader, Graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors and Doctor of Philosophy. She is additionally Adjunct Senior Fellow at the University of Adelaide, member of the Intersectoral Secondary Principals' Education Consultative Committee, member of the South Australian Executive of the Australian Association of Heads of Independent Schools, member of the Editorial Board of the Journal of Professional Capital and Community, and host of The Edu Salon podcast.

In 2023 Dr Netolicky was awarded the Australian Council for Educational Leaders ‘Hedley Beare Award for Educational Writing’ and was named on the Educator Australia’s 'Most Influential Educator' list and 'Hot List' of innovative educators, both for the second year in a row. More recently she was awarded the 2024 Australian Council for Educational Leaders SA ‘Media Award’.

Walford is proud to have a Principal with such distinguished accolades at the forefront of the School who's unwavering commitment ensures an exceptional education for students. We look forward to building on this success as we continue to foster an environment where every student can achieve her best, her way.