Class Topics

Our 7-week curriculum covers the following topics;

 

INNOVATION

The word innovation is overused today, but for good reason. We live in an age of exponential progress, and the world today's kids will inherit will look radically different to today. This class demystifies innovation by introducing students to its universal principles, demonstrating how innovation is used in the workplace today, and exploring how trends including artificial intelligence, bionics, machine learning and nanotechnology are already building the world of tomorrow. We cover;

  • What makes for a good business idea
  • Innovations in industry today
  • Artificial intelligence, machine learning, blockchain and more
  • What skills innovation demands, such as creativity and empathy

Persuasion

Advertising, politics, and the news media all use powerful methods of persuasion to influence our thoughts, feelings and behaviours without us noticing. We aim to help students understand how and why these methods work by analysing modern examples of persuasion, and what those who use them are trying to achieve. In this class we cover;

  • The psychology of emotion in our decision making
  • Public relations and propaganda
  • Persuasion in advertising, news and politics through time
  • System 1 and System 2 thinking
  • Practical tips and useful ideas

PEOPLE

Our ability to interact with other people and build relationships has been shown to be the leading contributing factor to long term happiness. In this class we focus on improving the relationships we have with those around us through effective communication and greater self-awareness. Topics include;

  • Small talk and conversations
  • Negotiating and being assertive
  • Managing conflict
  • Asking better questions
  • Networking

Learning how to learn

Learning how to learn is perhaps the most important life skill we can develop, because it makes us better at everything else. In this class, we look at how our brain processes information and changes itself in response to it's environment, how a growth mindset allows us to improve in every area, different methods of thinking clearly including Edward de Bono's 6 thinking hats, and how we can improve our memory.

  • Learning how to learn
  • Making hard decisions
  • Thinking clearly
  • Growing from failure
  • Neuroplasticity
  • Grit

MONEY

Why do we need money? How much is enough? What are our financial goals?

Too often we fail to examine some of the most important questions when it comes to managing our money. This class challenges students’ assumptions about spending and saving, aiming to counter the view that spending is fun and saving is a chore. By targeting their relationship with money, we encourage students to develop good habits to stay out of debt and make the most of what they earn. The class gives practical information and advice on;

  • Credit cards and bank accounts
  • Types of investments and which is right for you
  • Understanding and paying tax
  • Simple superannuation tips for a comfortable later life
  • Staying out of debt and developing financial security

CAREER

‘What do you want to do when you grow up?’ is a question most adults still can’t answer, yet we expect students to somehow have the solution. Our ‘Career’ class helps students explore what options are right for them and gives them a practical framework for making decisions when the time comes. We explore what degrees provide flexible skills that can be used across a vast array of eventual careers, how to navigate the early part of your working life and the practical aspects of getting your first job. We also cover;

  • Why and how to build flexible career capital
  • What makes for a fulfilling job
  • What skills will be in demand in their working lives
  • Resumes that stand out from the crowd
  • Interview expectations and preparations

EMOTIONS

For the first time in history, more people die today from suicide than are killed by soldiers, terrorists and criminals combined. Year 12 is the most stressful year of every young person’s life, so being able to manage the world within them is more important than ever. In ‘emotions’ we cover;

  • How to be happy
  • The science of addiction
  • Stress, anxiety and depression
  • Developing resilience
  • Empathy