illuminate education australia case studies

Mandurah Baptist College | Western Australia

Mandurah Baptist College has been a cornerstone partner of illuminate Education Australia since 2017, when their students first participated in the inaugural Murdoch University-hosted illuminate Enterprise Challenge. The following year, the school took the bold step of hosting the program on campus for their Year 8 students—marking the beginning of a transformative journey in education, innovation, and community engagement.

Initially, the challenge was introduced to build foundational project skills ahead of the school’s inquiry-based learning focus in Years 9 and 10. With a strong emphasis on curriculum alignment and internal assessment, the program quickly became a collaborative effort across departments. English teachers assessed student pitches alongside illuminate judges, while the Maths department reviewed financial tables and business analysis. This integration ensured that the challenge wasn’t just an extracurricular activity—it was embedded into the school’s academic framework.

But what started as a curriculum-aligned initiative has grown into something much more powerful.

Today, the illuminate Enterprise Challenge is a signature experience at Mandurah Baptist College. It inducts students into a creative, hands-on style of learning that builds confidence, collaboration, and critical thinking. Teachers are regularly upskilled in this authentic learning approach, deepening their understanding of students’ soft skills and unlocking new ways to support their growth.

The school’s investment in a dedicated STEAM space has further elevated the program. This state-of-the-art facility now serves as the home base for the challenge, enabling students to prototype ideas with access to tools, materials, and expert staff. The flexible learning environment supports the dynamic nature of the challenge, allowing students to explore, iterate, and innovate in real time.

One of the most inspiring aspects of Mandurah’s involvement is the way older students continue to engage. Year 9 and 10 students frequently return during challenge weeks to mentor younger teams, stretch their thinking, and enhance the overall learning experience. This peer-led support fosters a culture of collaboration and leadership that extends beyond the classroom.

Mandurah Baptist College has also been a regular participant in illuminate’s regional and national programs, consistently showcasing the creativity and capability of their students. In 2024, the school was proudly announced as the winner of the national final—an achievement that reflects years of dedication, innovation, and community spirit.

While illuminate Education Australia calls Tasmania home, Mandurah has become a second home for the team. The school has embraced the cultural transformation that the challenge inspires, and its ripple effect is evident across the region. Students, teachers, and community members alike are part of a growing movement that values real-world learning, entrepreneurial thinking, and youth-led impact.

This case study exemplifies how the illuminate Enterprise Challenge can evolve from a single event into a sustained educational transformation. It’s not just about teaching business skills—it’s about embedding creativity, resilience, and leadership into the fabric of a school community.

“The [illuminate] Challenge was exactly that, a challenge. The students really enjoyed the program and were able to stretch themselves and learn new skills. It also changed their perspective on learning and propelled them to the top of their classes. I highly recommend this program and we hope our students can participate again.”

– Catherine Eppen-Van Der Aa, Head of Humanities and Languages, Mandurah Baptist College

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