Most of us will be aware of the sterling work of Melbourne City Mission (MCM), with its philosophy of “disrupting disadvantage to give people a chance to live the life they aspire to”, but do you know that MCM’s independent secondary school, The Hester Hornbrook Academy, has a new, purpose built campus?
Named in honour of the brilliant woman who helped create MCM and was passionate about education, The Hester Hornbrook Academy’s strength is the fantastic staff who are proud to “shake things up” and offer a different kind of education experience.
Principal Sally Lasslett, who has been an educational leader for more than 20 years, believes that traditional schooling isn’t for everyone.
“We stray from the traditional format and offer our students flexible, rigorously applied high-quality education options, including accredited Vocational Education and Training and Victorian Certificate of Applied Learning, as well as accredited short courses and other outreach education and workshops,” Sally says.
“I’ve always had a keen interest in assisting students to find a passion for learning and ensuring they’re successful in developing post-school pathways. So we do things a little differently here.”
One significant variance is that youth workers are provided in every classroom to support each student with any challenges they face regarding their education and overall wellbeing. Another is that class sizes are small to ensure students receive personalised attention.
“We also connect our students to an array of youth and community services to assist them with any support they may need in any aspect of their life. And we individualise each student’s learning plan so they get to be in charge of it –in a respectful and supported environment.
“Another part of our unique environments is our Young Parents Program, with a classroom providing additional specialised supports for young women and men to remain engaged in their study and learning while experiencing the joys of being a parent.”
“Ultimately, The Hester Hornbrook Academy is about encouraging students to gain practical skills by engaging in education and training that will empower them to work toward personal goals and take charge of their future.”
NOTE: Enrolments are always open and taken throughout the year.
OPEN DAY
Time: 4-7pm
When: Wednesday, March 24, 2021
See the differences, meet the staff, have a chat.
The Hester Hornbrook Academy, Unit 1/131 Harvester Road, Sunshine. Inquiries: 1800 517 218, email enrolments@hhacademy.vic.edu.au or visit mcm.org.au/learning/hester-hornbrook-academy
