The Edge of Innovation: How Loreto Toorak is Redefining the Future of Learning

Every student arrives at Loreto Toorak with unique potential. Our mission is to give that potential direction. Equipping our young women with the moral clarity, intellectual courage, and agency to find their own path and lead with purpose. A defining example of this commitment is our innovative STRIDE@9 microcredential framework. This opt-in program combines short courses, specialised projects, and self-directed learning to build confident, capable, and ethical agents of change, distinctively separating Loreto Toorak from other schools.

A cornerstone of this framework is the Loreto–Monash Design Thinking Partnership. Now in its third year, this collaboration between Loreto Toorak and Monash University’s Faculty of Art, Design and Architecture reflects a deeply valued, ongoing relationship grounded in authentic, future-focused learning.

Cultivating Critical Thinkers and Problem Solvers

Over eight transformative weeks, our Year 9 students immerse themselves in a sophisticated design thinking course taught directly by Monash University academics. Fully embedded within the 'Being an Agent of Change' dimension of the Mary Ward Schools’ Compass, the program develops the capacity for critical and creative thinking, human-centred inquiry, and practical decision-making.

Guided by Monash University’s contemporary design principles, students explore complex, real-world challenges to generate innovative, purposeful solutions. Beyond mastering the mechanics of problem-solving, this experience provides invaluable, firsthand insight into university-level design processes, cultivating collaborative confidence that prepares them for life beyond our gates.

Celebrating Innovation: The Student Presentation Showcase

The program culminated in the annual ‘Agent of Change’ Afternoon at Monash University. In front of a warm audience of parents, friends, staff, and peers, students stepped forward to deliver compelling design pitches, communicating their ideas with impressive precision, clarity, and persuasion.

The depth and caliber of the student-led initiatives on display were truly incredible. We are proud to celebrate this year’s award-winning presentations:

• The Winning Project: The Micro Mystery: Rethinking Everyday Packaging Presented by Violet, Eden, and Poppy, this exceptional initiative aims to raise vital awareness about the impact of microplastics in everyday life. The project is designed specifically for families in takeaway settings like fish and chip shops. It features two creative products: the Fin Bin, an interactive way to collect plastics, and the Micro Newspaper, which cleverly transforms ordinary packaging into an engaging, educational experience.

• People's Choice Award: Mère Collective Developed by Ava, Amelie, Stella, and Lily, this thoughtful postpartum support initiative focuses entirely on caring for new mothers. By combining a curated monthly package with accessible digital support, resources, and trusted advice, Mère Collective aims to ensure all mothers feel supported and connected during an essential stage of family life.

• Best Speaker: Andora: HER Haven Recognised for her outstanding presentation clarity and persuasive delivery, Andora co-designed HER Haven alongside team members Caitlin and Elaine. Their brilliant digital and community-based initiative provides vital support networks, secure app-based resource navigation, and safe shelter access for single mothers and their children across Australia.

The success of this entire cohort is deeply strengthened by the ongoing coordination within our school community and the incredible expertise of our partners at Monash University. We extend our sincere thanks to Professor Gene Bawden, Head of the Department of Design, along with Dr. Ilya Fridman, Ti Boon, and Tenille Ibbotson, whose direct immersion, lectures, and academic leadership continue to enrich our students' learning journeys and deepen this valuable institutional connection.

Through meaningful initiatives like the Monash Design Thinking course, Loreto Toorak continues to provide a dynamic platform for students to think deeply, engage creatively, and contribute meaningfully to the world around them.

Ready to see how our distinctive microcredential framework equips students with an internal orientation for the future? To learn more about our innovative Year 9 STRIDE program or to discover how your daughter can build her own path of purpose, book your place at our upcoming Open Morning.

Her Compass. Her Direction.