Inspiring change makers
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reparing girls for the future in our fast-changing and increasingly complex world is at the forefront of Penrhos College’s mission. Here, students are empowered and equipped with the confidence and skillsets to problem-solve, collaborate, innovate and become leaders. In recent years, the importance of study in STEM-related areas and the development of associated skillsets has become increasingly significant. Research indicates that more than half the jobs for our next generation have not even been conceived of yet – what we do know is they will be heavily focused in STEM-related fields, an area in which females are significantly under-represented across the globe.
Learning experiences beyond the classroom help inspire girls to identify and pursue their future career opportunities.
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THE PENRHOSIAN
In order to provide real-life insight into what a future career in a STEM-related field might entail, we participate in an annual Girls in Engineering Outreach Program with the University of Western Australia. Students work with a team of female mentors from Rio Tinto (whose new Chief Executive, Australia, Kellie Parker - coincidentally - is one of our alumni). The program helps to illustrate the need for girls to think beyond the conventional, in a shift towards career options of which they may have previously been unaware. Some of our students also have the opportunity to attend a new five-day residential camp, specifically for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders with an interest in Science, Maths or Engineering. The Mining and the Lands Camp, sponsored by Curtin University, Future Footprints, AngloGold Ashanti and AISWA exposes girls to what it’s really like to study and work in the mining industry in WA. The more we are able to engage our girls in authentic career learning experiences, the more
