Hills District Independent HILLS 107 May 2024 | Page 24

EDUCATE ME

EDUCATE ME

SUSTAINABLY FOCUSED

Hills Grammar , where each child is more than just a grade

Hills Grammar has enjoyed a successful year of learning in 2023 , with growth and innovation being at the forefront . Providing a holistic approach to learning from the Early Childhood Education Centre , Junior School and Senior School , 2024 is shaping up to be even better . Students are continuously offered amazing opportunities in so many fields from the Arts , Sport , Humanities , STEM to entrepreneurialism to ensure each ‘ Hills Original ’ is celebrated .
The educational focus Hills Grammar provides builds students ’ foundation skills and a deep understanding and knowledge of each subject but also provides opportunities for students to apply their skills and knowledge in authentic situations through inquiry learning .
Year 6 students demonstrate the depth of their knowledge and skills at their annual Expo . Their research skills , creativity , determination , and critical problem-solving enables them to collaborate with their peers and their mentors to produce impressive solutions to sustainable agriculture challenges and develop skills that showcase their maturity and readiness to move into Senior School .
Students in Years 7-9 students spend
a week focused on a range of inquiry projects for the Interdisciplinary Enrichment Program from developing a film to designing a pump to produce clean water .
Professor Yong Zhao states , ‘ To succeed in this ever-changing world , students need to be able to think like entrepreneurs : resourceful , flexible , creative , and global .’ Students in Year 5 are immersed in entrepreneurialism through Market Day and the S . E . A . T project . Year 9 students focus throughout the year on developing entrepreneurial skills and Year 10 students participate in Australian Business Week with the support of alumni developing a small business plan .
Last year , Hills Grammar was recognised for its focus on sustainability . They were one of 26 schools acknowledged nationally for their commitment to the environment and at the end of 2023 , they were shortlisted for the NSW Sustainability awards . Sustainability is a collective responsibility and vital for a healthy environment and human flourishing . Their aim for students is to contribute meaningfully to society propelled by a strong sense of purpose , resilience , and hope for the future .
Margaret Mead wisely said , “ Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful , committed citizens can change the world ; indeed , it ’ s the only thing that ever has . Always remember that you are absolutely unique . Just like everyone else . Never believe that a few caring people can ’ t change the world .”
The Project Change team , the Master Planning commitment to sustainable business practices , the United Nations Sustainable Goals being embedded in K-10 inquiry units , and the partnership with 17 countries through the One Planet Network , are just some of the things Hills Grammar are doing to make the school more sustainable and enable students to evolve as environmental stewards .
At Hills Grammar they recognise that a child is more than just a grade . If students are to reach their potential and beyond then schools need to recognise and celebrate their diverse skills and achievements . Hills Grammar does this through the Hills Passport for the Future where students from ECEC-12 can accumulate micro credentials for achievements and actions beyond the curriculum .
To build their courage and confidence and future proof students , Hills Grammar is pursuing university accredited courses for Years 9 and 10 and creating industry partnerships by tapping into the knowledge and skills of our parents and alumni . Year 10 students who participated in one such accredited course , presented their solutions for enabling Hills to reach net zero by 2035 to the School Executive and School Council during the School ’ s Strategic Planning Day in February .
Hills Grammar aims to ensure that students experience an extraordinary education . Principal Karen Yager shares her beliefs stating , “ Whether it is on the sporting field , in the classroom , in a cocurricular program , in the performing arts , through external competitions or programs , being a kind and caring friend , being a member of a student team , such as the Passport team or the Wellbeing team , our students continue to make me proud to be their principal and I believe , with all my heart , that the future is in brilliant hands .”
To learn more about a Hills Grammar education , register for one of their many tours .
24 ISSUE 107 // MAY 2024 theindependentmagazine . com . au THE HILLS INDEPENDENT