What makes learning truly memorable? When we can see its relevance, apply it in meaningful ways and understand why it matters.

With this in mind, our empowerED learning vision is centred on creating purposeful experiences that connect students to real-world issues, people and possibilities.

This approach reflects the Ivanhoe Girls’ Learning Framework, which positions learning as connected, relational and authentic, encouraging students to engage with meaningful questions, real-world challenges and opportunities to create positive impact.

As we look to 2027 through a series of ambitious projects known as empowerED Endeavours, students will be challenged to think deeply, collaborate authentically and create solutions to genuine challenges.

A key part of making these Endeavours authentic is the partnerships we are building with experts from industry, universities and the broader community. These connections help bridge the gap between school and the world beyond it, giving students opportunities to learn from people who apply their knowledge and skills every day.

When students engage with experts, learning takes on a different dimension. Instead of responding to imagined scenarios, they grapple with genuine challenges and receive feedback from those working in the field. This helps students see the relevance of their learning, knowledge and skills. 

The network of experts that supports our students is diverse and continually growing. It includes alumni, parents, universities, industry professionals, community organisations, local businesses and specialists who contribute both in person and online. One of the most encouraging aspects of this work is the willingness of so many organisations and individuals to support education and invest in the next generation of learners.

In the Year 7 end of year inquiry unit, students will investigate how the design of sustainable common areas within social housing can strengthen social connection. Along the way, they will work with a university researcher specialising in social connection, a construction professional who oversees building projects, architects who will provide feedback on their design concepts and staff from a local Tech School who will introduce technologies that can help bring their ideas to life. Students will gain valuable insights into how thoughtful design can positively influence the way people live, interact and belong, 

In their end of year inquiry unit, Year 8 students will explore water quality with particular focus of a local wetlands case study. Working alongside experts form Yarra Water and Melbourne Water, they will investigate the challenges facing urban waterways, including climate change, stormwater management and future water security. Students will also learn about the species that inhabit local wetlands and learn alongside a First Nations Elder to deepen their understanding of a local billabong, exploring traditional approaches to caring for water systems. Students will develop a richer understanding of the relationship between people, place and sustainability.

By connecting students with experts, we are creating learning experiences that are purposeful, relevant and deeply engaging. These partnerships demonstrate that learning extends far beyond the classroom and that meaningful solutions often emerge when people with different experiences and expertise come together. Through each Endeavour, students will not only develop knowledge and skills, they will also discover how they can contribute to their communities and make a positive impact on the world around them.

Ms Liana Gooch
Director of empowerED