Achieve Program 

The new and improved Achieve Program has presented a big learning curve during ECP for the Year 9 students. During Week 1, the students took part in a boat-building challenge, where they were given a scenario and placed into competing planet teams, trying to escape a dying Earth. Before they could reach the 'spaceship' and leave the planet, they had to cross the 'raging river'. They were given a bucket full of materials and minimal instructions, needing to 'MacGyver' up a boat to get through the river. Once they got through the river, the teams had to work together to sort through the essential items that they wanted to bring to their planet. To improve their knowledge of the world, they also had to answer some trivia questions. During this entire triple-period session, students’ teamwork and leadership skills were tested and expanded.

In Weeks 2 and 3, students were introduced to their Innovation and Opportunity unit, their first taste of Careers and Work Studies. Students completed activities exploring different career options and considered careers that may be of interest to them in the future. This unit will culminate early in Term 1 next year with the students creating resumes and cover letters to help them begin their careers as they reach working age.

Students have commented on what a fun ECP program it has been, and the hard work of the Year 9 Achieve team (composed of Ms Melinda Naughton, Mr Jack Smeelie, Mr Daniel Williams, Mrs Sally Hurley, Ms Dawn Davis and Mr Jarrod Wiese) is to be commended.