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Youth

Clonard College Introduces Alternative to Traditional Schooling with Big Picture Learning

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Clonard College in Geelong is set to introduce a groundbreaking alternative to traditional schooling, Big Picture Learning, in 2026. This innovative approach focuses on personalized learning plans, internships, and real-world mentorship, rather than exams and subjects. Acting principal Jo Ryan says this approach will help tackle the issue of student drop-outs, which has seen attendance rates decline at almost all secondary schools in the region between 2019 and 2022. The program will allow students to pursue their passions and interests, with personalized timetables, exhibitions instead of exams, and the opportunity to learn through community internships.

Key Takeaways:

  • Clonard College will introduce Big Picture Learning in 2026, an alternative to traditional schooling that focuses on personalized learning plans, internships, and real-world mentorship.
  • The program will include personalized student timetables, community internships, and exhibitions instead of exams, allowing students to pursue their passions and interests.
  • Big Picture Learning already runs at some NSW schools and has been shown to be effective in engaging disengaged students.
  • The program will tackle the issue of student drop-outs, which has seen attendance rates decline at almost all secondary schools in the region between 2019 and 2022.
  • Students will have the opportunity to develop their own personalized learning plans alongside family and teachers.
  • Students can leave the classroom up to two days a week to learn through a community internship with an expert mentor in an industry or trade.
  • The program will provide students with a more holistic education, preparing them for life beyond school.

Statistics:

  • Between 2019 and 2022, school attendance rates declined at almost all secondary schools in the region.
  • Big Picture Learning is already running at some NSW schools.
  • In 2024, Geelong's Sacred Heart and St Joseph's adopted a four-day teaching week.
  • One of the college's first 2026 Advisory teachers, Lolita Fierro, will be working with the same young people throughout high school, instead of teaching a different group every hour.

Sources:

  • "Big Picture Learning" program
  • Clonard College
  • Geelong Advertiser (2019-2022 school attendance rates)
  • Lolita Fierro (Advisory teacher)
  • Geelong's Sacred Heart and St Joseph's (four-day teaching week)
  • NSW schools (Big Picture Learning)
  • Jo Ryan (Acting Principal, Clonard College)

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