They say, ‘If it doesn’t challenge you, it won’t change you’.
At Toorak College, we firmly believe that change is driven by challenge, and this holds true for the world we inhabit. While significant strides have been made toward gender equality in recent decades, our world still grapples with gender disparities. According to data from the Australian Bureau of Statistics, men, on average, earn $263.90 more per week than women. In light of this, educators play a pivotal role in inspiring the next generation of women to challenge societal norms and effect transformative change.
Recent research underscores the positive impact of girls' schools on young women's educational journeys. These schools cultivate a supportive yet intellectually challenging environment, fostering an atmosphere where all students are empowered to break free from traditional stereotypes, make bold choices, and radiate their unique brilliance.
At Toorak College, our mission is not to replicate the world; instead we aspire to transcend boundaries and ignite growth. Our commitment to an all girls' educational approach extends beyond the present, reaching into the future. We have created a secure and nurturing learning environment where students are not only encouraged to dream big but are also equipped to champion change.
Our independent and academically focused institution, grounded in strong values, caters to senior students, offering a diverse range of co-curricular activities. At the foundation of our educational philosophy lies a commitment to discovery, encouraging each student to explore their individual potential in an ever-evolving world.
Girls' schools empower young women to fully embrace their authentic selves. At Toorak College, we focus on personalised learning, encouraging individuality, and breaking stereotypes. Girls have the freedom to explore their interests, challenge societal norms, and develop strong bonds within a supportive community. This environment fosters self-confidence, leadership skills, and the ability to excel in diverse fields, preparing them to be authentic, empowered leaders ready to make a positive impact on the world.
First, for themselves. Then, for the world. Evidence shows that the threats of stereotypes are reduced in a single-sex environment as females aren’t inhibited by culturally-driven norms surrounding female behaviours.
Schools for girls move away from expectations and understand the fundamental role of any school is to provide students with options, put the decision-making back into the hands of girls, and allow them the chance to uncover their passions unapologetically. Then, they build and develop this passion throughout their educational journey.
What does this look like at school and in the workforce? An Australian study found that girls who attended a single-sex school are more likely to study STEM subjects at school and at university. In an industry where only 16% of the workforce are female, Toorak College is proud to announce that the year after we opened our new Swift Science and Technology Centre, over 40% of the graduating class were offered university placements in STEM fields.
Girls’ schools celebrate each and every student for their differences, their passion, and their drive. Support comes from other students and the wider school community, with statistics showing students at all-girls schools experience higher levels of support from classmates, teachers and other staff than peers at co-educational schools.
Further studies demonstrate that single-sex education encourages increased self-esteem and psychological and social well-being in adolescent girls.
Statistically, girls thrive in an all-girls environment. This is because girls’ schools provide students with a space that stimulates discussion, dialogue and self-discovery from kindergarten to year 12. Designed and purpose-built by girls’ education experts, the environment is centred around what girls need and their developmental milestones.
Girls’ schools hold a greater relevance today than ever before, equipping young women to emerge as industry and global leaders. Amidst ongoing conversations about the invaluable contributions of women in workplaces and boardrooms, it is essential to amplify the voices of girls and young women. Empowering girls to discover and harness their voices, enabling them to confidently step forward and make their mark, is paramount.