YEAR 9 RISE PROGRAM

Vision

The Rise Program is a strategic transition program for Year 9 students that aims to empower them with a better understanding of themselves and their community. Based in Coolangatta on the Gold Coast, the program focusses on personal growth, service to the community, and the development of entrepreneurial thinking. Ultimately, the Rise Program prepares students for success by equipping them with the skills and mindset they need to thrive in an ever-changing world.

Why the Need for Change

Research shows that young adolescents undergo significant cognitive and emotional changes as they move out of the middle years, and the education system needs to be responsive to these changes. Furthermore, this age group is at a crucial stage in their learning and it is important they receive an education that is engaging, relevant and challenging to ensure they are motivated to continue as life-long learners in our ever-changing world.

The world is becoming increasingly interconnected and the education system needs to reflect this by providing students with the skills and knowledge to succeed in a global context. This includes developing entrepreneurial skills such as critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills, as well as providing a broad understanding of different cultures and perspectives.

The education system is facing increasing pressure to be more responsive to the needs of the economy and the demands of the workforce. This means education for Year 9 students needs to be more focused on the development of practical and future-focused skillsets that are in demand in the ever-changing workplace.

Key Drivers

The Rise Program has been developed to address these concerns through a unique educational model based on three key drivers:

1. Self-efficacy (belief in one's capacity, connection to their learning)

2. Service (making a difference in the community)

3. Entrepreneurship (real-world learning)

Elements Of Learning

Personal Interests and Strengths

• Investigating real-world issues that connect students to their learning through a project-based learning approach

Social and Emotional Skills

• Accessing an integrated curriculum that starts with increased personal wellbeing and focusses on Emotional Intelligence as a key driver for future success

Literacy and Numeracy

• Supporting the foundational building blocks of literacy and numeracy while leveraging emerging trends such as Artificial Intelligence

SECRET Skills

• Building the soft skills through a learning portfolio based on the research based framework known as the SECRET Skills

Entrepreneurial Skills

• Developing grit and determination, leadership and strategic thinking, while embracing the mindset of an Entrepreneur in the service of the local community

Facilities

The Rise Program is based in The Strand shopping centre in Coolangatta and features a vibrant and flexible learning space overlooking one of the world's best beaches.

• Two large open-plan spaces are surrounded by glass breakout rooms

• An open-air outdoor learning space that looks down on Coolangatta beach

• Multiple wet areas for students to conduct project work

• Modern whiteboard writable furniture

• Access to hundreds of business partners within the business district

YEARS 9-12