Schools pilot projects

Since 2006 the Centre for Regional Development together with the Faculty of Higher Education Lilydale has been working with schools with a view to establishing student engagement projects. The purpose of this work was twofold: to enhance the learning and engagement of university students; and to enhance the learning and raise the aspirations of regional secondary school students.

During 2007 several pilot programmes were run with eight regional secondary schools. Although the intention was to build the schools project into curriculum as happened with the media discipline, the Hills project and to a lesser degree the work with Upper Yarra Secondary School, involved students as volunteers. The hills students were recommended by academics and went through a selection process. As a result they were eligible for a "Dean's Award".

Evaluation of the project demonstrated significant student learning and the potential to enhance engagement particularly with the Lilydale Faculty. University student project work with schools is also an opportunity for a student to gain experience above and beyond normal course work that demonstrates their social commitment and civic contribution.