Helping care leavers access higher education in IT through Raising Expectations
Monash University’s Faculty of Information Technology is proud to be a partner of Raising Expectations. The first initiative of its kind in Australia, it supports young people who have experienced out-of-home care – foster, kinship, residential or permanent – in accessing higher education, a focus aligned closely with the Faculty's priorities.
Significantly fewer care leavers enrol in higher education after school compared to their counterparts who have not experienced out-of-home care.
Raising Expectations connects this disadvantaged group with an ecosystem of educational, community and government partnerships providing academic, financial and social support essential to success in university and beyond.
At Monash, this includes scholarships, Special Entry Access Schemes, peer mentoring and accommodation assistance, all tailored to the needs of care leavers.
‘We’re pleased to be involved with the Raising Expectations program as a way to make IT more accessible. Technology is a field where people from all backgrounds can grow and succeed, no matter their circumstances. For care leavers, it provides them with skills they can couple with their unique experiences to make a difference that’s meaningful to them,’ said Emeritus Professor Sue McKemmish, a champion of the initiative within the Faculty of IT.
‘For example, we’ve developed an actionable charter that outlines the lifelong rights of individuals with out-of-home care experience in the realms of identity, memory, participation and accountability. It acknowledges and advocates for the direct authority these people have over record-keeping and decision-making that affects them – and is an example of how a passion for social equity can be mobilised with IT skills.’
This year, the Faculty was awarded the Science in Australia Gender Equity (SAGE) Cygnet Award for its ongoing support of academic carers, exemplifying its commitment to a people-first approach in its research and education.
‘We are dedicated to creating alternative pathways that acknowledge different walks of life, ensuring a level playing field for all. Our collaboration with Raising Expectations is just part of our commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion,’ said Professor Ann Nicholson, Dean of the Faculty.
Monash’s current ten-year strategic plan identifies three major challenges facing the world today, urging staff to focus their efforts on driving positive change. One of these areas is Thriving Communities, which directly aligns with the Raising Expectations partnership.
The University offers the widest range of double degrees in Australia, enabling care leavers to explore diverse interests and tailor their education to their unique aspirations. In addition, Monash's strong industry connections and vibrant campus community foster an inclusive environment where care leavers can thrive academically and socially.
For more information about Raising Expectations and the support available to care leavers, please visit our webpage.