The Public Education Foundation is delighted to announce Ian Preston as the recipient of the 2025 Toyota Community Trust STEM Teachers Scholarship. This prestigious scholarship supports outstanding educators committed to advancing STEM education in public schools, with a focus on improving opportunities for students in rural and under-resourced communities.
Ian Preston, Deputy Principal at Murrumbidgee Regional High School – Griffith, is the founder and lead of both the Murrumbidgee Academy of STEM Excellence and the New South Wales Virtual STEM Academy. A dedicated STEM educator, he was selected for his outstanding commitment to fostering innovation, collaboration, and excellence in STEM learning. With a passion for breaking down barriers in education, Ian aims to equip students with the skills and confidence to pursue careers in STEM while supporting fellow teachers to enhance their expertise.
“This scholarship is an incredible honour and a validation of my commitment to advancing STEM education for students in rural and under-resourced communities,” Ian said. “It represents an opportunity to grow as an educator, to learn from global leaders, and to bring innovative practices and technologies back to my school and wider community.”
Through this opportunity, Ian will engage with international experts and explore best practices in STEM education, ensuring that students in his community can access cutting-edge learning experiences. He is determined to use this experience to inspire students, support teachers, and position his region as a hub of innovation in public education.
Paul Somers, Chief Operating Officer of the Public Education Foundation, highlighted the importance of supporting STEM educators in public schools: “Ian’s leadership exemplifies the power of passionate educators to transform student outcomes and drive innovation. The Toyota Community Trust STEM Teachers Scholarship empowers educators like Ian to bring world-class STEM opportunities to Australian public schools, particularly in regional areas where access to resources can be limited.”
The Public Education Foundation sincerely thanks the Toyota Community Trust for their ongoing support of STEM education in public schools and their commitment to fostering excellence among educators.
For more information, please contact the Public Education Foundation at info@publiceducationfoundation.org.au.
About Toyota Community Trust
Following the closure of its manufacturing operations in Australia, Toyota wanted to leave a legacy that would provide long term benefits to the Australian community. With its first grants, the Toyota Community Trust is aiming to encourage and enable more young Australians to pursue further study and future careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).
About the Public Education Foundation
The Public Education Foundation is a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to providing life-changing scholarships to students and educators in public education, and enhancing the value and reputation of public education. See more details at www.publiceducationfoundation.org.au.
