The Abbotsleigh Foundation is a nonprofit organization established in 1976 that serves as a registered charity supporting Abbotsleigh School, an Anglican day and boarding school for girls located in Wahroonga on Sydney’s North Shore, Australia. The Foundation's primary mission is to provide financial assistance to the school for initiatives such as scholarships, prizes, and the development of educational facilities that are not covered by regular school fees[1][3].

History and Purpose

Since its inception, the Abbotsleigh Foundation has empowered young women by enabling access to quality education through philanthropic support directed at Abbotsleigh School. It functions to maintain funds and provide financial resources that enhance educational opportunities and facilities, thus enriching the learning environment for current and future students[1][3].

Governance

The governance of the Foundation is overseen by a dedicated board comprising individuals with strong ties to the school community and expertise in various professional fields. Key members include:

• Camilla Love, Chair, an Abbotsleigh alumna and experienced executive in finance.
• Natalie Craig, Treasurer, a chartered accountant and Abbotsleigh Old Girl involved in financial management.
• Sonia Baillie, Director, a Chartered Accountant and CFA Charterholder.
• Amna Khan, Director, current parent and chair of the Investment and Finance Committee.
• Megan Krimmer, Director[1].

These leaders guide the Foundation’s strategic direction, investment management, and fundraising efforts to ensure sustainable financial support for the school.

Activities and Fundraising

The Foundation organizes various fundraising activities to support its objectives, including notable annual events such as the Foundation Sports Lunch. For example, the 2023 Sports Lunch, held in Sydney, raised over $200,000 to fund scholarships, including those for Yalari Scholars, through auctions and community donations. The event also featured a panel discussion highlighting women in sports, demonstrating the Foundation’s commitment to promoting leadership and excellence among young women[5].

Funds raised contribute directly to scholarships, which enable students from diverse backgrounds to attend Abbotsleigh, and support other school initiatives beyond the reach of tuition fees[1][3][5].

Relationship with Abbotsleigh School

The Abbotsleigh Foundation is integral to the broader Abbotsleigh community, complementing the school’s mission to empower girls through education rooted in Christian values, academic excellence, wellbeing, and leadership development. The Foundation’s support strengthens the school’s capacity to offer enriching experiences and opportunities that foster resilience, independence, and compassion among students[4].

The Abbotsleigh Foundation exemplifies a committed philanthropic institution advancing educational equity and excellence for young women at Abbotsleigh School through effective stewardship, community engagement, and targeted financial support.

[1] https://www.abbotsleigh.nsw.edu.au/abbotsleigh-foundation/ [2] https://www.abbotsleigh.nsw.edu.au/giving/ [3] https://www.acnc.gov.au/charity/charities/0e70c3c2-38af-e811-a962-000d3ad24a0d/profile [4] https://www.abbotsleigh.nsw.edu.au [5] https://www.abbotsleigh.nsw.edu.au/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/AbbotsleighFoundationAnnualReport2023.pdf