Our first session, Flourishing Students, explores the vital question: how do we best equip our students to thrive in a rapidly evolving world? Currently, many students face significant hurdles, impacting their well-being and academic success. These range from mental health concerns, to systemic disadvantages amplified by location, socio-economic factors and resourcing gaps. New approaches and opportunities are emerging too. This session invites us to consider both the challenges and opportunities.

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We know that traditional, standardised assessments often fail to capture the full spectrum of student learning and potential. The current ATAR system, emphasising ranking and high-stakes testing, can create barriers for students with diverse interests and backgrounds and limit access to higher education. However, innovative approaches like the Melbourne Metrics project offer a glimpse into a future where we celebrate student success through broader, more nuanced metrics. By assessing and credentialing the complex competencies and dispositions learners need for life, we can move beyond narrow definitions of achievement and recognise the diverse skills and talents of all students.

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Similarly, traditional schooling models may not effectively suit all learners. The "one-size-fits-all" curriculum struggles to cater to individual interests and capabilities, potentially leaving some students disengaged and uninspired. But innovative learning approaches like Big Picture Learning Australia, with its emphasis on personalised, interest-led learning, offer a compelling new option. The International Big Picture Learning Credential which uses new measures for assessment, recognises diverse knowledge, qualities, and capacities, demonstrates the potential of new learning pathways. The integration of Big Picture academies or similar settings within mainstream public high schools offers a cost-effective, practical solution for new learning approaches at scale.

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Furthermore, emerging technologies like AI present both challenges and opportunities. While concerns about AI's impact on learning and critical thinking are valid, we should also explore its potential to personalise learning experiences, provide targeted support, and enhance student engagement. AI could offer tailored feedback, adaptive learning pathways, and access to a wealth of information, potentially transforming the way students learn and interact with educational content.

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This session invites you to consider both the challenges and the opportunities before us. How can we leverage innovative approaches to assessment, new learning models, and emerging technologies to create a more inclusive and engaging learning environment for all students? How can we ensure our curriculum and support systems are responsive to the diverse needs of our students while preparing them for the future of work and life? What is required to tackle issues of welbeing, educational  advantage, promote inclusion and diversity, and ensure equitable access to quality education? Your insights and perspectives are crucial as we work together to shape a brighter future for Australian secondary education.