Recognising that adolescents at Year 9 are undergoing developmental change, where peer relationships significantly impact wellbeing and classroom learning is seen as unconnected to the real world, this year the College is proud to introduce the Compass program for our Year 9 students.
The program began last week with students identifying and exploring their learning strengths. During the ‘Escape Room’ team challenge, team members with a range of skills were called on to build a hut out of icy pole sticks and tape, with a working door and the potential to withstand a storm. Other puzzles involved language skills, memory and concentration, sequencing and planning before they finally escaped the room. Collaboration is a key 21st century work habit that MLMC strives to teach all students as we prepare them for the future.
The Compass program will consist of two components:
- The Rite Journey — a guided journey from adolescence to adulthood
- Compass — our internally-designed program, developing the key skills we believe all contemporary learners require to be their best and give their best.
Through the introduction of The Rite Journey students will receive tools which assist in the transition between adolescent and adult decision making, life skills and interpersonal development. The Compass program includes units of investigation based on the College Vision for Learning, and the Victorian Curriculum General Capabilities designed to improve engagement and learning habits.
The Rite Journey and Compass will occur on dedicated whole days each week so that learning has depth and students have time to develop their ideas, creativity and enterprise. Both collaborative and individual learning are encouraged, as are the development of thinking skills, study skills, passion in a desired area and social justice. Key elements include an off-site camp, career development, senior pathways selection, entrepreneurial skills, city experience and community engagement.
