illuminate education australia case studies

Flinders Island | Tasmania

Since 2017, students from Flinders Island District High School have been actively involved in the illuminate Community Challenge – an immersive, real-world learning experience designed to empower young Australians to be confident, creative and capable. From their first visit to Launceston to participate in a regional program, to their ongoing engagement in our online challenges, Flinders Island students have consistently demonstrated a passion for innovation and community impact.

But in 2023, something truly special happened.

Recognising the unique needs and potential of this remote Tasmanian community, illuminate Education Australia delivered an on-island version of the illuminate Community Challenge for Year 5 and 6 students. This program was strategically aligned with the Furneaux Futures Forum – a community-wide initiative focused on regenerative tourism and long-term sustainability for the island. The timing and alignment created a powerful synergy between student learning and community visioning.

Over the course of the challenge, students explored the future of Flinders Island through a lens of innovation, empathy and impact. They tackled real-world issues such as road safety, housing availability, and infrastructure needs—while also celebrating what makes their island special, including its strong sporting culture and natural beauty. Their ideas were bold and imaginative: a machinery museum to preserve local heritage, mountain bike trails to boost tourism, and new community spaces to foster connection.

What made this experience even more powerful was the connection between students and community leaders. Each day, students shared their progress with stakeholders from the Furneaux Futures Forum and the broader regenerative tourism project. Their insights and enthusiasm inspired many forum participants to visit the school in person to hear the students’ final presentations—turning the classroom into a hub of community engagement and intergenerational learning.

This case study highlights the transformative power of the illuminate Community Challenge in regional and remote communities. It’s not just about teaching business skills or entrepreneurship – it’s about giving young people a voice in shaping their future. The program builds essential skills like critical thinking, collaboration, communication, and leadership, all while aligning with the Australian Curriculum and the General Capabilities framework.

For teachers, the program offers a fully facilitated, curriculum-aligned experience that requires no additional preparation. For community leaders, it’s a chance to engage with the next generation of changemakers and see firsthand how young people can contribute meaningfully to local development.

The feedback from students speaks volumes. They didn’t just enjoy the challenge – they felt empowered by it. They saw themselves as part of the solution, capable of making a difference in their community. And that’s exactly what illuminate Education Australia is all about: creating authentic, hands-on learning experiences that connect education to real-world impact.

As we continue to expand our reach across Australia, this Flinders Island experience stands as a shining example of what’s possible when schools, communities and young people come together with a shared vision for the future.

“This initiative has truly been a transformative experience for us; truly enhancing our abilities as critical thinkers and problem-solvers…”

“Through engaging activities, thought-provoking discussions and real-world problem-solving scenarios, we developed the ability to analyse information critically, evaluate evidence and make informed decisions. These skills have not only enriched our academic experiences but have also equipped us with the tools necessary to navigate the complexities of the world around us…”

“This approach empowered us to take ownership of our learning journey… The illuminate Challenge has instilled a passion for lifelong learning and a commitment to thinking critically and creatively.

– Grade 5/6s, Flinders Island District High School

What Others Say…

FROM COMMUNITY PARTNERS & COLLABORATORS

“So glad to see illuminate Education Australia in action in the City of Wyndham, helping students understand the skills they possess and which will be invaluable to their future careers. Such a well delivered program, bringing together representatives from across industries to provide real-world advice and guidance to young learners. Already looking forward to being involved again in the future.”

John King, Head of Education and Careers, The Huddle Wyndham

“A student knocked on my door the day after the illuminate Challenge and explained how it was the best week of her school life and can she do it again!”

Stacey Exner, Executive Principal, Dubbo College, NSW

“Even our staff who participate have said that the illuminate Challenge has literally been one of their career highlights.”

Alex Kho, Faculty of Business and Law, Deakin University

“The illuminate challenge was, as described by one of our students at our school's end of year awards ceremony, a life changing experience for our Year 10 students... The week created such a positive vibe amongst those doing the challenge and indeed, throughout the entire school, and students from all years seemed to be taking an active interest... I really do believe that this challenge, and the skills that were developed by students, will have a lasting impact on them.”

Dale Massie, HSIE Teacher, Terrigal High School, NSW

"Technical capabilities are the necessary, but not sufficient attributes for people hired into my organisation. The best candidates complement their technical capability with emotional intelligence along with the skills taught by illuminate Education. Creativity, a willingness to collaborate, natural curiosity and the ability to contribute to effective teamwork are key characteristics of tomorrow's high performing leaders"

Mike Faulkner, Managing Director (AU & NZ), Verizon Enterprise Solutions

“There is no finer task than to encourage and support our youth in their journey of learning. Having experienced first-hand the illuminate Education experience myself in a supporting role at Charles Sturt University, I was inspired by the energy that the young participants had in the skills of problem solving, vision creation and entrepreneurial strategies. Programs such as illuminate no doubt are an excellent tool as part of the preparation for life after school. I would encourage students and teachers to explore the opportunities that the illuminate Education program offers.”

Peta Pinson, Mayor, Port Macquarie Hasting Council

“In this rapidly changing world with the rise of emerging economies and onset of digital disruption, programs like the illuminate Challenge are absolutely critical to regional communities. Rather than seeing change as a threat, illuminate Education opens the eyes of our young people to the opportunities that change presents.”

Tim Watson, General Manager, Dorset Council

“The illuminate Challenge pushes students to extend themselves in a positive, supportive setting. It helps student to develop the real-world skills necessary for any workplace, and exposes them to study and career options. The program helps students to unlock their full potential and discover their future.”

Brendan Taig, Careers Practitioner, Suzanne Cory High School, Werribee, Victoria

“The Illuminate program was astonishing. I truly didn’t expect the quality of ideas and presentations that the students delivered. It was clear to me that Illuminate are building capability, and improving the confidence and career prospects of these students.”

Ellen Piper, People, Commonwealth Superannuation Corporation

"It was fantastic to see their ideas come to life on posters, prototypes, and in persuasive presentations that showcased their creativity, critical thinking, and entrepreneurial mindset. This experience not only built STEM capabilities but also empowered students with transferable skills in communication, teamwork, and problem-solving—skills they will carry into their future learning and pathways..."

Dr Lucy Cassar, STAV Vice President & Head of Teaching & Learning, St Francis Catholic College Melton

FROM THE STUDENTS THEMSELVES

“It is challenging in a good way…”

Lara, Year 6, ACT

“The most fun and educational experience that I have ever had… I learnt so many important skills that I will use.”

Max, Year 10, ACT

“The program is a good idea, it helps kids change where they’re living for the better.”

Katie, Year 6, Tas.

“A fun, entrepreneurial program teaching real world skills.”

Kaila, Year 10, SA

“It’s perfect for learning to work in a team! And at the end, you are really proud of yourself!”

Tom, Year 10, NSW

“I would say it’s a unique experience that makes you think beyond a level you have before.”

Amyra, Year 8, Vic.

“Ultimately, it is one of the best experiences I’ve ever had.”

Gianna, Year 10, Vic.

“It’s fantastic and really interesting.”

Sharafadiin, Adult Student, Vic.

“A great experience many young people should go through.”

Charlotte, Year 9, NSW

“It’s hard but worth doing, and you learn a lot of skills.”

Isabella, Year 8, WA

“It is a chance to discover our personal skills and discover what skills we will need for the future and think like adults.”

Senaya, Year 8, Vic.

“Giving younger people a voice.”

Elka, Year 6, Tas.

“It’s an excellent experience… Many valuable lessons & transferable skills such as teamwork & communication.”

Simran, Year 9, SA

“Teaches young students the knowledge they need in pressure situations & how to solve problems sustainably.”

Ruby, Year 8, WA

“Stressful, but really fun and would definitely recommend.”

Aaron, Year 10, NSW

“It was very educational and helps to broaden your horizons even if you don’t want to pursue business.”

Amara, Year 10, NSW

“It is a program that brings the youth together to design solutions for real world issues.”

Gemma, Year 10, NSW

“A program that challenges students to think innovatively, collaborate and work hard.”

Amara, Year 10, NSWAlice, Year 10, NSW