Extended Learning Opportunities

Attending solo or new to ICGS? Join an informal catch-up over lunch, meet other delegates, share experiences, and build connections across the Coalition’s network.

Sunday, 19 April, 2:00-4:00 p.m.
Methodist Ladies’ College
Cost: USD55

Does your school really need the latest ride in the amusement park? Developing an impactful school-wide strategy that delivers sustainability, comparative advantage, and reputation enhancement

Presented by Dr Stephen Holmes, The 5Rs Partnership

In a crowded education market, it’s easy to chase the newest “big idea” — but does your school really need the latest ride in the amusement park? Join Dr Stephen Holmes for a practical, straight-talking workshop on building a school-wide strategy that actually delivers: long-term sustainability, real comparative advantage, and a stronger reputation where it counts.

Stephen will unpack what drives meaningful differentiation, how to cut through the noise, and how schools can focus on what truly shifts outcomes for students and communities. Clear, strategic, and refreshingly grounded — this session will help you sharpen your school’s direction with confidence.

Sunday 11:00 a.m. – 1:15 p.m.
Methodist Ladies' College & Ruyton Girls' School
Cost: USD15

Explore two independent girls’ schools, each offering a distinctive approach to education in the heart of Melbourne. We will meet at Methodist Ladies’ College and walk the short distance to Ruyton Girls’ School (approx. 5 mins)

Methodist Ladies’ College | 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

A tour of Methodist Ladies’ College (MLC), Kew, offers visiting educators a unique opportunity to explore one of Australia’s leading independent girls’ schools. Guests will gain insight into MLC’s innovative teaching and learning environments, its wholistic approach to girls’ education, and its commitment to academic and student wellbeing. The tour will showcase state-of-the-art facilities, including collaborative learning spaces, and sustainable campus design. A highlight of the visit will include insight into the new Physical Education Centre (PEC), a visionary development featuring an Aquatics Centre with a 50-metre pool, diving facilities, and learn-to-swim area, alongside indoor courts, a fitness and wellness hub, and outdoor sports spaces.

Ruyton Girls’ School | 12:15-1:15 p.m.

Ruyton Girls’ School is an independent ELC–Year 12 girls’ school located just across the road from Methodist Ladies’ College. Founded in 1878, Ruyton has a long tradition of intellectual curiosity paired with a deeply relational approach to learning and wellbeing. Its values of Curiosity, Kindness and Connection continue to shape the school’s culture and educational philosophy.

This guided tour offers an opportunity to explore Ruyton’s contemporary learning environments, including the award-winning Verrocchi Centre, specialised STEM facilities, and the Reggio Emilia-inspired Early Learning Centre. Delegates will gain insight into the school’s holistic, future-focused programs across the Junior and Senior Schools and see how student-led initiatives bring the school’s values to life.

As Ruyton approaches its 150-year anniversary, the school celebrates its community — past, present and future — and the shared commitment of its alumnae, families and students to empowering young women to lead lives of purpose and impact.