Blog

Empowering children by providing a safe space for play, exploration, and learning is one of the main tasks for educators from early learning through to graduation. Facilitating and creating opportunities for play in early learning is an important step in creating confident and empowered students. In this blog, Toorak College Early Learning Teacher Rowena Thorne explores how play can help empower students and encourage self-discovery. The role of play in student empowerment Jean Piaget's famous…

Unlocking the potential of students is a crucial aspect of their academic journey. Melissa Schoorman, the Head of Wardle House and Deputy Principal, shares insights into the importance of learning how to learn. In this exploration, we delve into the strategies employed in Wardle House to empower students with the skills necessary for maximising learning outcomes and unlocking students’ potential. The foundation: learning how to learn Understanding the process of learning is foundational in a…

In the ever-evolving landscape of workplace dynamics, fostering a culture of employee wellbeing has emerged as a critical factor for organisational success. In a recently published survey by Gallagher 2023, 75% of employees said that wellbeing was one of their highest priorities. The study further indicated that low wellbeing, mental health, burnout and workplace stress have a significant and direct impact on an organisations bottom line. Acknowledging the need to offer employees with a…

To bridge the gap between school and the professional world, it's important to equip students with essential skills and information needed in their future careers and the world of work . Building the foundation for good professional networking skills starts in school, and in this article, Toorak College's Futures Specialist Coco Callanan shares networking tips to help build relationships beyond the classroom, expand your network and prepare for life post graduation. Networking as an opportunity…

Paving the Way with Pre-Secured Cadetships and Dynamic Industry Partnerships At Toorak College, we recognise the need for a dynamic approach to learning, exposing students to real world experience and industry pathways. We are proud to announce the ATAR results of our 2023 Year 12 cohort, with 22% of our students achieving ATARs over 95, placing them in the top 5% of Australia, and 37% of students achieving an ATAR over 90. This impressive accomplishment cements our place as the top performing…

In the dynamic arena of team sports, victories extend beyond the scoreboard, and the skills acquired on the field echo far beyond the final whistle. Engaging in team sports isn't merely a physical activity; it's a training ground for life, imparting lessons that resonate in community and business leadership. In this exploration, we unravel the layers of wisdom that team sports provide, emphasising the pivotal life skills that go hand in hand with playing to one's strengths, setting purposeful…

Adolescence is a pivotal stage in a young woman's life, marked by self-discovery, growth, and the development of self-esteem. At Toorak College, we understand the unique challenges that adolescent girls face during this critical period. Our commitment to nurturing their self-esteem goes beyond academics; it's about building strong, confident, and empowered young women. Self esteem is an extremely important topic within girls schools given the ongoing decline in wellbeing amongst adolescents in…

In a world where information flows freely, children are exposed to confronting events that occur throughout the world through various mediums despite the controls we have in place for them. With a stream of images, headlines, information and conversations, it is important to check in with your children, reassure them, and correct any inaccurate information they may have heard, or incorrect assumptions they may have made. We need to remember that young people view the world through their lens,…

The Positive Impact of Yoga, Mindfulness & Breathwork on Young Students In our Early Learning Centre, students are busy learning the masterful craft of yoga and breathwork. Incorporating yoga, mindfulness and breathwork into our curriculum from a young age can be extremely beneficial, having a positive impact on children’s physical, emotional and cognitive development. Self Regulation through Breathwork Each week, our ELC children settle into practice with a breathing exercise. This…