Workplace Giving Program
In a world where education is often seen as the great equaliser, financial barriers can still hinder deserving students from reaching their full potential. Recognising this disparity and the transformative power of education, Haileybury has embarked on an inspiring journey through its Workplace Giving Program. This initiative not only exemplifies our commitment to social responsibility but has also made a tangible impact on the lives of financially disadvantaged students.
For over 130 years, Haileybury staff have been making a significant impression in the lives of our students. Haileybury’s academic results have once again been among the best in the nation. Small class sizes, diversity of curriculum offerings and parallel education have all played a large role. The dedication, care and brilliant teaching of Haileybury’s staff have been a huge contributor to these results.
Just over four years ago, Haileybury staff commenced having a major influence on the philanthropic front. The launch of the program was designed to allow staff to contribute to the Haileybury Scholarship Fund. Such was the impact of this program that within six months, Haileybury Foundation’s first ever Workplace Giving Scholarship had been launched. Fast forward three years and with just over 100 staff contributing to the program, a second scholarship was added.
When asked why he gave to the program, Senior School teacher Adam McCarthy referenced that “a Haileybury education and the future connections it provides can give students a huge advantage in life. The workplace giving program provides this opportunity to students who would not otherwise have the resources to access it. I am proud and grateful that I contribute to providing this wonderful opportunity to deserving students”. Local Marketing Manager Nicole Steyn expresses similar sentiments: “As a Haileybury staff member, I have the privilege of seeing much of what our great school has to offer. For me, being a donor to the Workplace Giving Program is not just about giving, it’s about knowing that you are contributing to making a tangible difference in the lives of others by giving a student the opportunity to experience a life-changing education”.
The fortunate recipients of this program are Faith and Eshara. Faith has attended Haileybury’s City campus since Year 7, while Eshara commenced as a Year 10 student. Eshara is now a House Captain at Keysborough while Faith has enjoyed great success in the Sport and Social Justice fields.
Assistant Dean of Staff at Brighton, Mark Lockwood, says that “the initial information regarding Faith’s background story was enough to remind me that we generally breathe pretty rare air, and it is nice to offer someone else the opportunity to do so. Faith’s story and subsequent updates provided strong motivation”.
The program stands as a testament to the collective generosity and empathy of our staff members. It has become a life changer for students facing economic hardship. Through their ongoing support, these staff members have demonstrated a profound belief in the importance of education as a catalyst for change.
Jan Munro, a teacher from Brighton, explains that she donates to the program “as it is incredibly uplifting and rewarding. I am very proud of the work we do as teachers and know what a difference this program can make to the life of someone who would otherwise be unable to access this opportunity”.
As we celebrate the success of this initiative it is evident that the impact of this program transcends mere numbers. It is a testament to the power of collective action and the profound difference that can be made when individuals come together with a shared purpose. Through their generosity and compassion, the staff of Haileybury are not only changing lives but are also shaping a brighter, more inclusive future for generations to come.
In the spirit of reconciliation, Haileybury acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of country throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples today.