Senior School

Being Open to the New – Embracing Unfamiliar Ideas and Perspectives

Being open to the new is a key element of Quality Thinking, a key competency identified through our research partnership with the University of Melbourne’s New Metrics Program. Quality Thinking describes the ways young people learn to navigate complexity, uncertainty and change. Within this framework, being open to the new focuses on students’ willingness to engage with unfamiliar ideas, perspectives and experiences, rather than relying only on what is comfortable or already known.

In a rapidly changing world, the capacity to remain curious and open‑minded is increasingly important. Research into future workforce trends consistently highlights the value placed on individuals who can adapt, learn continuously and respond thoughtfully to new situations. At All Saints’ College, we intentionally support students to develop curiosity and confidence in exploring new ways of thinking, knowing that openness underpins deep learning, innovation and good judgement.

Parents and guardians play an important role in strengthening openness by encouraging reflection and curiosity in everyday conversations. Creating space for students to talk about what challenged or surprised them helps make learning visible and reinforces that growth often occurs beyond the familiar.

You might ask:

• “What’s something new you tried today?”
• “What surprised you?”
• “Was there an idea you didn’t agree with at first, but now see differently?”

Questions such as these prompt students to notice how their thinking is evolving, helping them build confidence in engaging with new ideas and recognising that openness develops through experience, reflection and practice.

Rising Scholar Program

Curtin University is again running its Rising Scholar Program (RSP) in Semester 2 2026.  

The RSP offers students the tertiary learning experience at Curtin University while still in high school, allowing them to earn University credit. Students will engage with staff and students through any of the available delivery modes of the University (on-campus, blended learning, or online). The program will consider outstanding Year 10, 11 or 12 students for one unit per semester, and students may complete up to 4 units over the course of the program. Students will be granted a full fee sponsorship for the cost of the units (some unit resource costs may apply). Units available to study include Business & Law, Humanities, Health Sciences and Science & Engineering, to name just a few.

Successful completion of units through the program may be credited towards an undergraduate degree; however, students will need to seek eligibility regarding CRL. Students will receive a Curtin Certificate upon successful completion of an RSP unit.

IMPORTANT NOTE:

Students should be clearly aware of the additional workload associated with these courses, and note that changes cannot be made to the ASC timetable to accommodate this. For more information or to find out how to apply please visit MyASC: Rising Scholar Program