ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF COUNTRY Today and every day, we acknowledge the Bunurong People as the Traditional Owners of the land we live and learn on, here at Toorak College. With open hearts we pay our respects to Elders past, present and emerging. We recognise their ongoing connection to the land and the bay, Nairm. Our students, teachers and families are knowledge seekers. As we listen to the stories of the First Nations, we will question and reflect in order to continue our reconciliation journey.
CONTENTS Introduction
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Our Strategic Aspirations
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Our Educational Philosophy
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Future of Work and Corporate Partnerships
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Innovation in Curriculum
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Digital Enhancement and Integration
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Revitalising Spaces
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Global Networking
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Community Engagement and Social Responsibility
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OUR MISSION WE WILL EMPOWER OUR STUDENTS THROUGH ACADEMIC AND PERSONAL GROWTH SO THEY WILL THRIVE IN THEIR FUTURE.
In preparation for our 150th year, we have looked to the lessons and learnings from our past. The pages of our story are filled with brave decisions, bold thinkers and selfless acts. The vision for the school has always been shaped by doing what is best for the students today and for their future. This has meant some tough times, some difficult decisions and some pioneering beliefs.
As we come to write the first page in the next chapter of Toorak’s story through our strategic plan, it is significant to note that this time may call for a similar sentiment once again. There is much change, instability and opportunity in the world of education, the world of work and in the prospect of innovation. This Strategic Plan: Beyond 150, is designed to provide Toorak with the flexibility to make the most of this landscape.
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“ We are all proud of where Toorak has been. We are even more proud of where it is headed.” KRISTY KENDALL, PRINCIPAL
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OUR STRATEGIC ASPIRATIONS REVITALISING SPACES
Beyond 150 is a 3 year plan focused on researching, iterating and implementing opportunities across these 6 strategic priorities:
INNOVATION IN CURRICULUM
FUTURE OF WORK AND CORPORATE PARTNERSHIPS
GLOBAL NETWORKING
DIGITAL ENHANCEMENT AND INTEGRATION
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT AND SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY
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FUTURE OF WORK AND CORPORATE PARTNERSHIPS
INNOVATION IN CURRICULUM
DIGITAL ENHANCEMENT AND INTEGRATION
Explore and strengthen corporate partnerships to inform our curriculum and create seamless pathways to the enduring world of work.
Develop a new JS curriculum that enhances flexibility and continuity in the school
Implement new software and tools for an enriched learning experience for students.
Input a new P-12 mapped wellbeing curriculum, initiatives and experiences
Enhance parent communication and streamline administrative tasks for staff.
Introduce targeted enrichment programs in JS and SS
Create an integrated and responsive digital platform for the whole community.
Develop flexible work arrangements that empower individuals to thrive in their professional roles.
Enhance digital literacy competencies Implement a new integrated student data platform (Edapt)
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REVITALISING SPACES
GLOBAL NETWORKING
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT AND SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY
Expand and improve school infrastructure to accommodate growth promoting flexibility.
Expand day and casual boarding options for local students.
Improve accessibility to the use of facilities for all year levels.
Rebuild our international student program with diverse student groups from around the world.
Extend opportunities for community involvement, with a focus on supporting initiatives within our local community.
Redefine our built landscape to promote connectivity across the whole school.
Establish two-way partnerships with global communities through independence and cultural exchange.
Leverage connections with the Collegian network to extend our impact into global communities. Strengthen parent education opportunities.
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OUR EDUCATIONAL PHILOSOPHY
Toorak’s educational philosophy, Project Shine, has been redesigned to align with the school’s Beyond 150 strategic plan. The framework is based on four main pillars: Academic Growth, Personal Growth, Empower, and Thrive. These pillars are the basis of the school’s commitment to developing well-rounded, confident students by focusing on their cognitive, social, emotional, and moral development. Our approach is grounded in educational neuroscience, developmental psychology, and a forward-thinking perspective on the future of work. We aim to equip students with the skills of collaboration, problem-solving, and innovation, which are essential for their success in the world beyond our gates.
ACADEMIC GROWTH
PERSONAL GROWTH
CURRICULUM AND LEARNING SKILLS
WELLBEING AND CHARACTER DEVELOPMENT
Our Academic Growth pillar equips our students with an academic foundation that gives them the skills to inquire, explore and innovate. Our broad curriculum develops critical and creative thinking through our explicit and immersive teaching practices. We track and communicate student progress through metrics that involve both performance and potential data markers to ensure ongoing growth, extension and enrichment of every student. By exploring the interconnectedness of various subject specialities, alongside the world beyond our gates, students gain a broader perspective and develop curiosity, adaptability, and a sense of achievement.
Our Personal Growth pillar focuses on the comprehensive development of our students, encompassing their physical, emotional, moral and social development. We view all of our students as capable, competent and full of potential, and to help each of them realise this, we offer tools, resources and support to enhance their health and wellbeing. Our curriculum is designed with age-appropriate programs that aim to promote emotional and social awareness and are informed through self-report data that identifies students needs, as an individual and as part of a community. The key objective to enhancing an individual’s personal growth is in fostering attitudes, behaviours and capacities that create well-rounded, perceptive and healthy individuals.
EMPOWER
THRIVE
LEADERSHIP AND CO-CURRICULAR PURSUITS
STUDENT FUTURES AND GLOBAL NETWORKING
Our Empower pillar is designed to build positive relationships through shared interests and collaboration that fosters a sense of connectedness and strengthens our school community. Leadership development is prioritised, empowering every student to become responsible and empathetic role models who can positively impact their communities and enables all of our students to develop a positive sense of self. Our co-curricular offering extends on the rich foundation of skills developed in our academic and personal growth programs which builds skills in managing competing demands, communication skills, problem-solving, teamwork, competition, discipline and drive. Activities such as sports, camps, clubs, music, community and the arts, enhance our student’s educational experience through personal interest, selfexpression and aspiration. These skills are essential to building confidence as students discover and showcase their interests in a supportive environment.
Our Thrive pillar seamlessly aligns with our educational philosophy in using the world around us to inform our programs, offerings and experiences. This is showcased in our comprehensive Student Futures programs that creates harmonious synergy and helps our students work closely with industry partners, offering challenging classroom opportunities that encourage resilience, collaboration, and lifelong learning. Our students are immersed in global, pathway and careeroriented initiatives that give them the confidence to pursue their goals beyond graduation to become purposeful worldly citizens. This is further strengthened through our international student program that allows for authentic and insightful connections with Toorak students wherever they may be in the world. Strong connections with our Collegian community also provide our students with access to mentorship, guidance, networking, and career advice within a lifelong community.
“ Each pillar is viewed as integral to developing young people with confidence and character and are equally important in a young person’s development.” KRISTY KENDALL, PRINCIPAL BEYOND 15O — The Toorak College Strategic Plan
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Beyond 150 is designed to provide Toorak with the flexibility to make the most of the changing education landscape.
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F U T U R E O F WO R K A N D C O R P O R AT E PA R T N E R S H I P S
Toorak College’s commitment to fostering corporate partnerships and integrating flexible work arrangements showcases its dedication to empowering students and staff for the future of work. CORPORATE PARTNERSHIPS
FUTURE OF WORK
Preparing students for traditional career paths is no longer enough. Educational institutions like Toorak College recognise the importance of equipping students with the skills and adaptability needed to succeed in a dynamic and ever-changing job market. To achieve this, the school is developing electives informed by industry and exploring and strengthening corporate partnerships. This strategic move promises to shape a more relevant and enriching educational experience.
Toorak College recognises the changing nature of work and is committed to providing flexible work arrangements for its staff. The future workforce is expected to be more flexible, with greater emphasis on remote work, project-based collaborations, and entrepreneurial endeavours. By integrating flexible work arrangements into its educational framework, Toorak College fosters a culture of adaptability and independence among its staff. This culture encourages exploration of various modes of work, remote collaboration dynamics, and the development of self-directed projects that nurture a mindset of continuous learning and professional growth without compromising continuity of delivering the classroom experience for students.
Corporate partnerships in education go beyond the classroom, offering students valuable insights into real-world industries and the demands of the modern workplace. By connecting with businesses and organisations, Toorak College opens doors to internships, mentorship programs, and collaborative projects that provide students with hands-on experience and a deeper understanding of their chosen fields. These partnerships are mutually beneficial as they benefit the corporate world too. Forward-thinking companies recognise the advantages of investing in the education of future talents. By working closely with Toorak College, they gain access to a pool of well-prepared, motivated, and skilled graduates. Such partnerships can lead to a seamless transition from education to employment, ensuring that graduates possess the competencies and adaptability needed by the future job market.
These flexible work arrangements enable educators and administrators to balance their professional and personal lives effectively. Whether it’s adjusting work hours to accommodate family needs or utilising remote work options to access unique professional learning opportunities, these arrangements empower staff to perform at their best. Toorak College’s vision for the future of work and corporate partnerships reflects a profound commitment to providing its students and staff with the best possible preparation for the challenges and opportunities of modern society. By fostering strong ties with the corporate world and embracing flexible work arrangements, the School is not only shaping the future of education but also actively contributing to the success of its graduates and staff in a world where adaptability, collaboration, and lifelong learning are paramount.
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I N N OVAT I O N I N C U R R I C U L U M
In the pursuit of innovation in curriculum, Toorak College places an emphasis on redefining the principles of flexibility, continuity and enhancement within the realm of education. This pioneering approach acknowledges that the curriculum should not adhere to a one-size-fits-all model, but rather embrace a dynamic and personalised framework. This transformative vision empowers students to actively shape their educational journey, fostering a sense of ownership over their learning and future. Informed by the latest insights from educational neuroscience and developmental psychology, our teaching methodology is centered around the belief that learning should be fuelled by curiosity and inquiry, complemented by the deliberate delivery of essential skills. With new developments in the tracking of student growth data and an increased focus on enhanced digital literacy, we will continue to equip our students with the tools they need to evolve into informed global citizens who harbour a genuine curiosity about the world.
ENHANCEMENT OPPORTUNITIES Toorak College offers enhancement programs to students with advanced learning needs. These programs cater to intellectual interests and help students reach their full potential through advanced coursework, research projects, and specialised co-curricular activities. Toorak staff will be supported with best practice methodologies alongside increased training in areas of individual needs education. All students will enhance their knowledge and application of digital literacy skills.
THE IMPORTANCE OF CONTINUITY One of our strengths as a Kindergarten to Year 12 school is in enabling seamless transitions alongside foundations that are built upon year by year. This plan enhances continuity in each student’s journey by having one curriculum model and approach through ELC, Junior School and Senior School. Underpinned by inquiry models of thinking and strengthened through explicit skill development this strategic plan sees a focus on our own specialised curriculum model. This is further enhanced by a new whole school map of wellbeing initiatives and priorities that are experienced where most beneficial to an individual’s development.
UNIFIED STUDENT DATA INTEGRATION The implementation of the unified student data platform, Edapt, at Toorak College marks a significant leap forward in optimising the educational experience for both students and faculty. Edapt serves as a comprehensive solution that seamlessly integrates diverse student data, providing a centralised hub for information related to academic performance, co-curricular activities, and personal development. This streamlined approach enhances the efficiency of administrative processes, allowing educators at Toorak College to access real-time insights into student growth, identify areas for improvement, and tailor instructional strategies to individual needs.
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The school’s vision has always been to do what is best for the students today and for their future.
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D I G I TA L E N H A N C E M E N T A N D I N T E G R AT I O N
In the era of rapid technological advancement, Toorak College recognises the crucial role of digital enhancement and integration in transforming the educational experience. The School’s commitment to this endeavour signifies its dedication to providing students, staff, and parents with a technologically enriched and efficient ecosystem that supports learning, communication, and administrative processes.
IMPLEMENTING NEW SOFTWARE AND TOOLS
EXPLORING ALTERNATIVE STUDENT LEARNING PLATFORMS
Toorak College’s commitment to implementing new software and tools signifies its recognition of the transformative potential of technology in education. By embracing cutting-edge software and tools, the School aims to create a dynamic and engaging learning environment that caters to the diverse needs and learning styles of its students.
Toorak College’s commitment to exploring alternative student learning platforms signifies its adaptability and willingness to embrace innovation in education. These platforms extend beyond traditional classroom settings, offering students diverse and flexible avenues for learning.
These digital tools offer interactive and multimedia-rich resources that can enhance traditional teaching methods. They allow educators to create immersive learning experiences, facilitate real-time collaboration, and provide instant access to a wealth of educational content. Through the integration of this software and tools, Toorak College equips its students and with the digital literacy skills necessary to thrive in this rapidly changing environment.
Alternative learning platforms can include online courses, virtual labs, and interactive simulations. By incorporating these platforms into its curriculum, Toorak College enhances the educational experience by providing students with opportunities for self-paced learning, personalised instruction, and access to a broader range of subjects and resources. This approach caters to different learning preferences and ensures that students can tailor their education to their individual needs and goals.
ENHANCING PARENT COMMUNICATION AND STREAMLINING ADMINISTRATIVE TASKS Recognising the importance of effective communication and efficient administrative processes, Toorak College is committed to enhancing parent communication and streamlining administrative tasks through a responsive and integrated digital platform. This integrated platform serves as a hub for communication between the School, parents, and students. It offers real-time updates on student progress, assignments, and school activities and it streamlines administrative tasks such as enrolments, fee payments, and scheduling, therefore reducing paperwork and manual processes.
By providing parents with a transparent and user-friendly digital interface, Toorak College fosters stronger parent-school partnerships. Parents can stay actively engaged in their child’s education, monitor their academic progress, and communicate with educators seamlessly. Simultaneously, school administrators benefit from improved efficiency and data accuracy, enabling them to focus more on educational initiatives.
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R E V I TA L I S I N G S PAC E S
In the pursuit of revitalising spaces and ensuring that its physical infrastructure aligns with its educational mission, Toorak College is embarking on a transformative journey. This initiative encompasses not only expanding and improving school infrastructure but also fostering accessibility, connectivity, and flexibility throughout the entire campus.
EXPAND AND IMPROVE SCHOOL INFRASTRUCTURE
REDEFINE BUILT LANDSCAPE FOR CONNECTIVITY AND FLEXIBILITY
Toorak College recognises the importance of creating a physical environment that can accommodate growth and innovation. To achieve this, the School is dedicated to expanding and improving its school infrastructure. This includes constructing new buildings, renovating existing facilities, and upgrading technology.
Toorak College understands that a well-planned built landscape can greatly impact the educational experience. Therefore, the School is committed to redefining its built landscape to promote connectivity and flexibility across the entire campus.
Expanding school infrastructure provides students with access to state-of-the-art facilities, such as modern classrooms, laboratories, and recreational spaces. These enhancements not only support a high-quality educational experience but also attract and retain students and faculty who seek cutting-edge resources. Moreover, investing in infrastructure aligns with the School’s commitment to long-term sustainability and growth.
IMPROVE ACCESSIBILITY FOR ALL YEAR LEVELS Toorak College’s commitment to improving accessibility to facilities for all year levels demonstrates its dedication to inclusivity and equal opportunities for students at every stage of their educational journey. This initiative ensures that the physical layout of the school is designed with the needs of all students in mind. Improvements may involve enhancing accessibility features to ensure that every part of the campus is reachable by all students, regardless of physical abilities. This inclusivity not only adheres to ethical standards but also fosters a sense of belonging and community among students, making them feel valued and supported throughout their time at the school.
Redefining the built landscape involves creating spaces that encourage collaboration, interaction, and adaptability. This may include designing flexible learning environments that can be easily reconfigured to accommodate various teaching methods and group sizes. Additionally, outdoor spaces and green areas may be integrated to provide opportunities for relaxation, recreation, and inspiration. Promoting connectivity throughout the campus ensures that students, faculty, and staff can easily communicate and collaborate, fostering a sense of unity and shared purpose. This approach encourages interdisciplinary learning, where different subject areas can intersect, leading to more holistic and well-rounded educational experiences. Toorak College’s commitment to revitalising spaces is a testament to its dedication to providing a modern, inclusive, and adaptable educational environment. By expanding and improving school infrastructure, improving accessibility for all, and redefining the built landscape to promote connectivity and flexibility, the School ensures that its physical environment is conducive to learning, growth, and innovation. This approach not only benefits current students but also lays the foundation for a thriving educational community well into the future.
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The plan is focused on researching, iterating, and implementing opportunities in different areas.
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G LO B A L N E T WO R K I N G
EXPAND DAY AND CASUAL BOARDING OPTIONS
REBUILD INTERNATIONAL STUDENT PROGRAM
Recognising the value of cultural diversity and global exposure, Toorak College aims to expand day and casual boarding options for local students. This expansion allows students from the local community to experience a more immersive and enriching educational environment.
Toorak College’s commitment to rebuilding its international student program signifies a dedication to welcoming students from diverse backgrounds around the world. This initiative aims to create a vibrant and inclusive international student community within the school.
By offering day and casual boarding, the School opens its doors to students who may live nearby but wish to access the school’s resources and programs on a flexible basis. This approach provides local students with opportunities to interact with their peers from different backgrounds, fostering a global mindset and cross-cultural understanding from within the local community which builds skills in motivation and independence.
By recruiting students from different countries and cultures, Toorak College enriches the learning environment for both international and local students. It promotes inter-cultural exchanges, language learning, and global awareness. International students bring unique perspectives and experiences to the classroom, creating a more globally aware and culturally sensitive student body. Our Intensive English Language Centre will further develop it’s English language learning program to provide a smoother transition into Toorak College.
ESTABLISH TWO-WAY PARTNERSHIPS WITH GLOBAL COMMUNITIES Going beyond one-way exchanges, Toorak College strives to establish two-way partnerships with global communities. This approach emphasises mutual learning, cultural exchange, and collaborative initiatives. Through these partnerships, students have the opportunity to engage in cultural exchanges, collaborative projects, and immersive experiences with peers from partner schools and communities worldwide. This not only broadens their horizons but also fosters a sense of interconnectedness and shared responsibility for global issues. Furthermore, two-way partnerships can extend beyond student exchanges to encompass faculty collaborations, joint research projects, and community outreach efforts. This holistic approach reinforces Toorak College’s commitment to making a positive impact both locally and globally.
Toorak College’s commitment to internationalisation and global networking represents a bold vision for creating a more diverse, culturally rich, and globally connected educational experience. This initiative encompasses expanding day and casual boarding options for local students, rebuilding the international student program, and establishing two-way partnerships with global communities.
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COMMUNITY E N G AG E M E N T AND SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY
EXTEND OPPORTUNITIES FOR COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT Toorak College’s commitment to community engagement and social responsibility underscores its dedication to fostering a sense of responsibility, empathy, and global awareness among its students and the broader school community. This initiative encompasses extending opportunities for community involvement, leveraging connections with the Collegian network, and strengthening parent education opportunities.
Toorak College recognises the importance of actively contributing to its local community. By extending opportunities for community involvement, the School seeks to instil a sense of social responsibility and civic engagement in its students. This approach encourages students to connect with and positively impact the world beyond the school’s gates. Toorak College’s focus on supporting local initiatives aligns with the principle of being a responsible and contributing member of the local community. Students may engage in community service projects, volunteer work, and collaborative efforts with local organisations. These experiences provide students with a first-hand understanding of the challenges and needs within their own community, fostering empathy and a desire to create positive change.
LEVERAGE CONNECTIONS WITH THE COLLEGIAN NETWORK
STRENGTHEN PARENT EDUCATION OPPORTUNITIES
Toorak College recognises the potential of its alumni network, the Collegians, as a powerful force for extending its impact into global communities. Leveraging these connections allows the school to tap into a wealth of experience, expertise, and resources that can be mobilised to support initiatives around the world.
Toorak College recognises that education extends beyond the classroom, and parents play a vital role in a child’s development. To strengthen parent education opportunities, the School offers parents access to resources, workshops, and educational programs that support their understanding of current educational practices, parenting strategies, and ways to engage with their children’s learning.
Collegians who have graduated from Toorak College often go on to have diverse and impactful careers in various fields. By maintaining strong connections with this network, the School can harness their collective influence to contribute to global causes, whether through mentorship programs, philanthropic initiatives, or collaborative projects. This approach not only extends the school’s reach into global communities but also reinforces the idea of a lifelong commitment to social responsibility among its alumni.
By empowering parents with knowledge and skills, Toorak College encourages a collaborative approach to education. This fosters a supportive home environment that complements the School’s efforts, ensuring that students receive consistent guidance and encouragement both at home and at school.
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We are committed to an exciting and bright future, driven by innovation, progress, and a sense of community.
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OUR COMMITMENT TO CHILD SAFETY Toorak College is committed to providing and promoting a child safe and child friendly environment which protects children from abuse. Toorak College has zero tolerance for child abuse. Child protection is a shared responsibility between Toorak College, all employees, contractors, volunteers, associates and members of the School community. Toorak College supports and respects all children, young people, staff and parents. We are committed to the continual development of inclusive practices.
FURTHER ENQUIRIES Toorak College Old Mornington Road, Mount Eliza, VIC, 3930 T +61 (3) 9788 7315 www.toorakcollege.vic.edu.au Disclaimer: The information in this publication is current as at the date of printing and is subject to change. You can find updated information on our website at www.toorakcollege.vic.edu.au. Toorak College assumes no responsibility for the accuracy of information provided by third parties. CRICOS Provider Code: 00349D, CRICOS Course Code: 005454G (Senior), 097816B (Primary) © Copyright 2023 Toorak College Mount Eliza,
