Fostering innovation and lifelong learning: insights from global education experts

At Carey, we are continually seeking ways to inspire and challenge our students and staff to embrace innovative thinking and lifelong learning. This term, we were privileged to welcome two distinguished visiting international experts in the field, Professor Bill Lucas and Valerie Hannon, who brought with them a wealth of knowledge and fresh perspectives on education in the 21st century.

Bill Lucas, an internationally renowned expert in creativity, innovation and learning, shared invaluable insights into the importance of cultivating curiosity and adaptability in our students. His thought-provoking sessions with staff encouraged us to think beyond traditional learning models, exploring ways to develop critical and creative thinking skills that will serve them well into the future.

Valerie Hannon, a global thought leader in education transformation, challenged us to consider how we can reimagine learning to better prepare our students for an ever-evolving world. Her discussions on the future of education emphasised the need for schools to nurture not only academic excellence but also the skills and mindsets required for active and engaged global citizenship.

Their visits reinforced our commitment to ensuring that Carey students are equipped with the knowledge, skills and competencies they need to thrive in a rapidly changing world. This aligns closely with our ongoing research partnership with the University of Melbourne and the work within the New Metrics project, which focusses on redefining success through the development and assessment of complex competencies beyond traditional academic measures. The insights shared by Bill Lucas and Valerie Hannon complement our efforts to integrate these competencies into our curriculum, ensuring our students are prepared for the future with a broad and meaningful skillset.

As we reflect on their visit, we are reminded that education is not just about what we teach, but how we empower our students to become agile, reflective and forward-thinking learners. The ideas and discussions generated by Bill Lucas and Valerie Hannon will undoubtedly continue to shape our journey at Carey, helping us to foster a culture of innovation and excellence in all that we do.

Kate Croft
Deputy Principal – Student Learning