Teaching Girls How to Think Not What to Think Since 1891

The Globe and Mail recently published an article highlighting St. Mildred’s-Lightbourn School and our mission to empower girls through innovative education. In the feature, Head of School Mrs. Catherine Hant shared insights on our approach to preparing students not only for academic success but also for the challenges and opportunities they will face in life.

A key theme of the article focused on how SMLS helps students embrace new and unfamiliar experiences. Mrs. Hant emphasized, “We want them to learn that the impossible can become possible, with this idea that ‘I’ve got this,’” reflecting our school’s commitment to fostering resilience and leadership in our students. This philosophy aligns with SMLS’s founding mission in 1891 to create future leaders by empowering young women, a legacy we proudly continue today.

The article also highlighted our approach to real-world learning, with programs such as the Global Citizenship Signature Program and professional internships for senior students. Whether it’s a hands-on STEM project or an overseas service trip, students are constantly encouraged to step out of their comfort zones, develop critical thinking skills, and build confidence.

We are incredibly grateful for this feature, which beautifully captures the heart of what we do at SMLS: teaching girls how to think, not what to think.

To read the full article, click here.