IDEALS 

Alice Waite, Year 11, Ridgeway Campus

The IDEALS program is an opportunity for students to explore different streams and pursue their interests. There are various programs to entice different students, such as Cooking for a Cause, Music, Sustainability and even Board Game Design. IDEALS runs on a Tuesday afternoon, and is a refreshing break from normal classes. 

Have a read of some reflections from IDEALS participants...

Leni Lockyer, Year 11, Ridgeway Campus  

The Sports Up Program is designed for students with a passion for sport and leadership, equipping them with the skills and experience to coach their peers and younger students. Through a structured curriculum, we students are able to develop essential coaching techniques, leadership abilities, and effective communication strategies. A key area of focus for this program is learning how to adapt to different coaching styles, which vary depending on each person we coach. Through this, it allows us to tailor our approach to suit various athletes and situations. They also have the opportunity to learn from other student leaders, gaining valuable insights and refining their coaching methods. 

Students gain hands-on experience by coaching Buckley House students, applying their skills in real-world settings while fostering a positive and supportive sporting environment. To further develop their coaching abilities, they take part in activities such as wrong-hand cricket, where they play using their non-dominant hand. This helps students understand the challenges others may face when learning a new skill and teaches them how to coach individuals through difficulties. 

As they progress through the program, students can earn coaching credentials, allowing them to continue coaching beyond school and setting a strong foundation for future involvement in sports leadership. 

Vivienne Pally, Year 10, Ridgeway Campus 

Participating in the IDEALS program Sports Coaching has been an eye-opening experience, helping me grow both as a coach and a leader. Working with the Year 9 students to strengthen their sports coaching skills has helped reinforce my own understanding of coaching principles, communication, and teamwork. 

One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned is the importance of clear and effective communication. Explaining drills, providing constructive feedback, and keeping sessions engaging requires more than just knowing the sport—it is about making sure everyone understands and feels included. I have also realized how important patience is when working with younger students, as everyone learns at their own pace. 

Through IDEALS, I have developed my confidence in leading groups and managing different personalities, as well as improved my ability to plan structured and enjoyable training sessions, ensuring that coaching is not only educational but also fun.  

IDEALS has given me an appreciation for coaching and leadership, and I’m excited to continue to develop these skills in the future. 

Sports Coaching

Sienna Moorfield, Year 12, Ridgeway Campus 

Hi Ivy Voice readers! My name is Sienna Moorfield, and for the past two years, I have participated in Buckley House coaching within the IDEALS program. Through Buckley House Coaching, I have supported and assisted primary school students of all year levels to develop their sports skills and their confidence. By coaching various teams, such as the Year 5/6 Boys AFL Team and Year 5/6 Girls Rugby Team, I have immersed myself within the Ivanhoe community, forming connections with various individuals.  

The program has also developed my Leadership and Communication skills through a range of experiences, like encouraging the students to try their best so they can perform to the best of their abilities. Furthermore, the experience has enabled me to empathise better, understand the perspective of others and act intuitively to support them. Forming funny and quirky memories, the time I have spent with the kids at Buckley House has made an enjoyable addition to my schooling experience.  I would recommend those who haven’t heard of or considered Buckley House Coaching to reach out and have a go!