Future Schools Alliance

Two educational partners working with Melbourne High School to shape its strategic plan and co-create its learning design are Hutton Consulting and the Future Schools Alliance. MHS’s recent admission to the Future Schools Alliance will broaden the School’s networks and build its capacity to deliver cutting-edge programs and broaden career opportunities for MHS students.

On May 25 and 26, eight staff, School Council President, Mr. Henry McLaughlin, and Future Schools Alliance Convenors Peter Hutton (ex-Templestowe College) and Dave Runge (ex-Geelong Grammar) worked with me at a two-day residential workshop to help shape the foundations for Melbourne High School’s next strategic plan.

The two-day exercise was exhausting but at the same time incredibly exciting. Furthermore, discussions did not get bogged down in the minutiae of operational matters. Our focus was on establishing the narrative, design principles and strategic drivers that will guide future planning, new initiatives and potential developments.

Discussions were firmly planted in the School’s history of high academic achievement, inclusivity, and breadth. These have been hallmarks of our success and brand. We have honoured the work, and we will continue to honour the work. Our pillars and pedigree are strong. However, we need to remain contemporary and at the forefront of education. (In 1854 we were referred to as The Model School.) Furthermore, we need to expand and contextualise what honouring the work means in the 21st Century.

The planning group felt this needs to include students’ personal development, so they have the emotional and social capabilities to succeed in life, as well as the academic content required to succeed professionally. Thus, it is about working hard academically, but also ensuring there is time for balance and personal development which is captured through the School’s rich co-curricular program.

In ensuing months, members of the MHS community will be invited to contribute to the narrative and strategy.

Dr Tony Mordini

Principal