Supporting Girls Who STEM

Three years ago, Toorak College took the bold steps to launch a philanthropic campaign in support of a planned centre dedicated to STEM education, our first major appeal in over 40 years. Aligned to Toorak College’s commitment to build a culture of philanthropy within our community, this campaign also helped to cement our ability to lay lifelong educational foundations for generations of women.

In speaking to those who generously donated towards this project, the reasons for giving varied greatly. For some, giving back to the school that equipped them with the skills to thrive in life was a meaningful way to show gratitude. For others, making a transformational gift towards ensuring more women enter into the fields of STEM, was critical. Over 170 of our community members gave generously for their own reasons, and in early 2020, the Swift Science and Technology Centre became a reality for today’s students.

The Centre officially opened on January 31, 2020, and, on one of the hottest afternoons on record, our entire community came together to celebrate. Major donor and Toorak Collegian, Mrs Alison Swift from the Swift Family Foundation, joined Principal Mrs Kristy Kendall and Chairman of the Board of Directors Mr Peter Wickenden, in officially cutting the ribbon to mark the historical occasion. Moving inside, the event proved an excellent example of the facility’s exceptional capabilities and saw families partaking in fun STEM activities in every room. Guests interacted in the collaborative learning and breakout spaces, tinkered in the DIGI Zone, and tested out the latest technology in the Virtual Reality pods.

With the building now officially opened, it is time for our supporters to celebrate the immediate impact their generosity is having. Already, there has been a 15% increase in our Year 10-12 enrolments in Science subjects - an early but promising sign that Toorak College girls will lead the way in bridging the gender gap in the STEM industry, where women currently make up only 16% of the overall workforce.

To all those who supported our campaign, either financially or through volunteering, thank you for your help in securing the future of our students.

Mrs Penny Bowman - Alumni Relations and Development Manager