At Korowa, we’re not just preparing students for assessments, we’re preparing them for life.

Last week, our Year 10 students had their Student Futures Week, a five-day deep dive into self-discovery, career exploration and skill-building. It was practical, purposeful and packed with leadership in motion.

Day 1 & 2: Building the Foundation for Success

On Monday and Tuesday, students swapped their uniforms for smart-casual attire and embraced a professional mindset. They worked with employability specialists MAXME, focusing on the human skills needed for leadership: confidence, collaboration, and self-awareness.

MAXME’s interactive sessions helped students learn practical skills. They gained a better understanding of the working world, developed emotional intelligence, and learned to build healthy workplace relationships. Students also identified their personal strengths, improved communication, and built confidence for job interviews.

One key takeaway from the interview prep? A job interview is an opportunity to tell your story and show why you’re the right fit.

Students explored the difference between fixed and growth mindsets, and how curiosity and embracing challenges can improve productivity. They also discussed workplace culture, focusing on respect, mental health, and positive energy.

By Day 2, students weren’t just learning about the future. They were ready to lead it.

Day 3: Decision-Making and Giving Back

Wednesday, Student Futures Week shifted to subject selection and future pathways. With guidance from Careers Specialist Cath Freney, Year 10s explored their Morrisby Profiles, including VET and vocational options.

A Year 12 panel also shared their subject selection experiences. They spoke openly about why they chose certain subjects, how their choices evolved, and their post-school plans. Year 10s were able to ask real questions, gaining authentic advice that went beyond typical expectations.

The Year 12s emphasised choosing subjects based on strengths and interests. They encouraged students to keep an open mind and reassured them that there are always alternatives if things don’t go as planned.

The panel also shared tips on managing study, work, and extracurriculars. They offered their own advice on quality study, active recall, and balancing time with friends. The session was engaging, with relatable advice that boosted their confidence in making subject choices and planning their futures.

Then came Big Day In—Korowa’s whole-school fundraiser supporting our sister school in Bangladesh. Year 10s took the lead, running stalls, coordinating logistics and rallying their peers. It was leadership, empathy and community spirit rolled into one unforgettable afternoon.

Day 4: Immersed in Industry

After three days of insight it was time to apply it all. On Thursday, students stepped out into the world of work.

Each student visited two industry sites aligned to their interests across business, sport, medicine, health, engineering, design and law. From Golf Australia and St Kilda Football Club to Cabrini, Grimshaw, and Leo Cussen, students experienced professional workplaces up close.

One student, Estelle, shared her reflection on the day:
“Through my experience at Cabrini, I had the opportunity to speak with professionals from various roles in the Health Industry, and I found the range of career pathways and specialisations to be incredibly informative. It was valuable to hear from people who had returned to university after working in other fields, as well as those who balanced their career with family life. I discovered many roles I hadn’t previously considered. The presenters were not only passionate but also honest and supportive, giving me a realistic understanding of the strengths required for each role. Personally, the excursion highlighted the dedication and compassion needed in this industry. I came away with a more informed view of what draws people to work in Health, and I’m certainly more interested in exploring a wider range of career opportunities.”

The day wrapped with a visit to Swinburne University, where hands-on workshops in media, health, design and law helped students imagine their next steps and visualise a pathway from school to career.

Day 5: Bringing it all Together

The week finished on a high as MAXME returned to guide students through creative problem solving and presentation skills. In groups students presented to their cohort focusing on how to think critically, speak with confidence, and collaborate with purpose.

Student Futures Week gave our Year 10 students a real edge. Korowa equips our students with essential human skills they’ll need to lead, adapt, and thrive in the future. The program closed with time for reflection, and a sense of accomplishment for the growth they’d experienced along the way. At a time when real-world skills are crucial, our students are already ahead of the curve, ready to take on future challenges.

Looking ahead, the skills and insights gained during Student Futures Week will continue to shape our Year 10 students’ personal and academic growth at Korowa. This week-long experience has provided them with greater self-awareness, confidence, and a clearer sense of direction in their chosen career paths. By prioritising communication, leadership, and adaptability, Korowa is preparing students to excel beyond school and lead the way in their future industries. Our commitment to holistic education ensures that our students aren’t just ready for the future, they are empowered to make a meaningful impact in their communities and careers.