The Transformative Power of Education

‘The gift of education has enriched my life and opened doors that I could not have imagined possible’.—Mr David Rawson, Head of Department, English Curriculum Development.

As current Head of Department, English Curriculum Development at BGGS, David Rawson’s path through education is testament to the benefits of philanthropy. In his own words, ‘Having grown up below the poverty line, it was thanks to the generosity of others—often in the form of bursaries, scholarships, and grants—that I was able to attend university, find my fit in the world, and pave an exciting career in education. The gift of education has enriched my life and opened doors that I could not have imagined possible as a child. I am my parents’ wildest dreams come true’.

A Fulbright grant and a Harvard fellowship afforded David the opportunity to study with giants in the US. He says: ‘I can’t put a price on the value of what I learned, or on the experience of exchange I enjoyed’. In the U.S. discussions about philanthropy and financial aid are a normal part of the education conversation, recalls David—an important way of granting social and economic access to those on the margins. Upon returning to Australia he resolved to give back, to support others in the same way he had been supported.

David believes that schools, such as BGGS, must play a part in combatting inequality and that in the current day it is unacceptable that a student’s postcode—rather than her attitude or character—is more likely to determine her success. As a member of the BGGS community, David has consistently marvelled at the expertise of his colleagues, the richness of their shared learning experiences, the quality of resources and facilities, and the seemingly endless array of opportunities available to BGGS students. He would like to see these same opportunities available to girls and future leaders who can only dream of a Grammar education.

‘The generosity shown to me compels me to give back. Supporting the School’s Bursary Fund is one easy way I can play my part’.