BIG PICTURE ACADEMY

As Head Teacher of the Big Picture Academy, I have the incredible privilege of working with a wonderful group of students who are highly engaged in an alternative education pathway which offers them a range of opportunities outside of traditional mainstream schooling. In 2023, Kurri Kurri’s Big Picture Academy has had our first group of students successfully apply to university through the International Big Picture Learning Credentials. Congratulations to Jessica Kelly and Nathan Riley of the Year 12 Advisory who gained a place at Newcastle University, and to Sam Tedd, of the Year 11 Advisory who gained early entry into Newcastle University, a first for Kurri Kurri High School. Furthermore, we have had a number of students who have also achieved employment through traineeships, apprenticeships and full-time employment in their careers of their choice which has been wonderful to see. Congratulations to all of those students who have moved into their future career pathways, and to those of you who are still with us, we are looking forward to continuing guiding you on your journey in 2024! 

Have a safe and joyful Christmas break and the Big Picture Academy faculty will see you all in 2024! 

Mrs Kylie Edwards 

YEAR 9 

As it is coming to the end of my first year of being the Year 9 Advisor, I want to thank each and every one of the parents who has supported both myself and your child through their first year in the Big Picture Academy. I can honestly say that I have truly enjoyed working with you all and I am looking forward to guiding your students through the next year of their education in 2024. 

Throughout this term, students have been working hard on their second independent project and I am thoroughly looking forward to viewing their exhibitions in Week 9 of Term 4. Students have been investigating their passions in subjects such as how the creative arts can assist those with ADHD, design using vinyl records, the mechanical workings of cars, building a floating bedframe, and creating a YouTube channel. Students are working towards building their skills in the Big Picture Learning Goals, and each student is able to guide their own individual learning journey. 

Following on from our social action project on Sustainable Oceans, the Year 9 students went to the Net Zero Careers in the Hunter event where they were able to connect with employers who are developing innovative solutions to take both Australia and the Hunter towards net zero. This year, students have shown a great interest in the impacts of climate change on our environment, and it was also a good opportunity for students to talk to current apprentices and graduate ambassadors from this workforce. Additionally, students also had access to current TAFE and University of Newcastle students who could guide students to a green career if they were interested. One important aspect of our Big Picture learning is for our students to go to as many outlearning experiences as possible to expose students to all of the opportunities and employment pathways that are available to them, and we will continue to seek these opportunities in 2024. 

Wishing all of the Big Picture students and their families a safe and merry Christmas and New Year! Enjoy your break and I am looking forward to hearing all of your holiday stories in 2024! 

YEAR 10 

As we near the end of 2023, I have had the pleasure to witness the incredible progress displayed by our year 10 Big Picture students here at Kurri Kurri High School. I am thrilled to share the remarkable growth our students have displayed throughout their Gateway Exhibition journey. 

Throughout the term, our students have been immersed in reflecting on their time in Big Picture, delving into their passions and interests to curate their Gateway Exhibitions. These projects encapsulate their unique skills, aspirations, and learning trajectories. 

The Gateway Exhibition serves as a platform for our students to showcase their understanding of the Big Picture Learning Goals as well as their creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving abilities. It embodies their holistic learning experiences as Big Picture students, demonstrating their growth as self-directed learners and innovative thinkers. 

As their Advisor, what stands out most is the evident growth in their confidence, communication skills, and collaboration. I am confident that their experiences with the Gateway Exhibition will serve as a solid foundation as they progress into stage 6, fostering innovation and a lifelong love of learning. 

I commend our students for their outstanding efforts and extend my gratitude to all who have supported them in this enriching journey. 

YEAR 11/12(2024) 

As we approach the end of another remarkable year, it's with great enthusiasm that we take a moment to reflect on the incredible journey we've undertaken together within the Big Picture program. This year has been nothing short of transformative, filled with growth, learning, and meaningful connections that have enriched both our individual lives and our school community as a whole. 

We've witnessed inspiring projects, heard compelling stories of personal growth, and celebrated numerous achievements. From internships with local businesses to community service initiatives, our students have demonstrated the positive impact that a personalised, hands-on education can have on both their academic and personal development. 

Looking ahead, we are excited about the continued evolution of the Big Picture program at Kurri Kurri High. We remain committed to providing innovative educational opportunities that empower our students to chart their own course and pursue their passions. 

As we bid farewell to 2023, let us carry the lessons learned and the bonds forged into the new year. Together, we will continue to cultivate a learning environment that nurtures individual potential, embraces diversity, and prepares our students for success in an ever-changing world. 

Thank you for being an integral part of the Big Picture journey at Kurri Kurri High School. Here's to a bright and promising future for each and every one of our students. We have had students come and go this year and I wish them all good luck in their life journey. 

Special mention to Samuel Tedd who has gained access into Newcastle University via the IBPLC credential. Sam was successful in getting into his desired course Medical Engineering. He did this via early entry which is the school's first. Congratulations Sam, I wish all the best. 

Wishing you a joyous holiday season and a Happy New Year! 

YEAR 12 (2023) 

Year 12 Advisory for 2023 had their graduation at the end of term 3. All students have achieved success through the International Big Picture Learning Credentials. Students within the Advisory are on their chosen pathway whether it is full time employment, TAFE or an Apprenticeship. Nathan Riley and Jessica-Lee Kelly have both been accepted into university through this pathway. Jessica received an offer from UNE and UON. Nathan also received an offer from CSU and UON. Jessica Kelly and Nathan Riley are to be congratulated as the first two Big Picture Academy students to get into University through the International Big Picture Learning Credentials. 

I have had the absolute honour of being their Advisor for the past 4 years and I am very proud of the young adults they have become through the Big Picture Learning Design. This is an amazing pathway that can change students' lives through what their passions and interests are. If you think your child may be interested in joining the Big Picture Academy, please do not hesitate to contact the school to find out more information about the IBPLC and this amazing.