Students from Catholic schools across the Diocese of Maitland-Newcastle recently came together at NUspace, University of Newcastle, to take part in the Virtual Academy’s Empower Exhibition. The event celebrates student agency and innovation through the presentation of original projects driven by students’ individual passions and interests.
The exhibition is designed to highlight the voice of students in the Diocese’s High Potential and Gifted Education (HPGE) programs. With families and peers in attendance, the exhibition offered a unique opportunity for students to share ideas that matter most to them.
Jasmin from St Mary’s Catholic College, Gateshead, presented an exhibit focused on personal and global responsibility.
“Today, we’re displaying our agency through an exhibit. My exhibit is all about Responsibility and how our actions can have an impact,” Jasmin shared.
“It’s important to me when you consider everything that is going on in the world at the moment. When there’s trouble, it’s important that we make a change and stand up for a brighter future.”
“I really like that the Virtual Academy is about self-expression and is very self-directed – I can choose what I do with my learning. I feel proud that I have been chosen to be part of the academy and that my high potential has been recognised by others.”
Lyla from St Joseph’s Primary School, East Maitland, used her love of mathematics to create engaging learning tools for others.
“I’ve noticed that a lot of people don’t enjoy maths, so I’ve made some maths games to make it fun,” Lyla said.
“It’s important to me because I love maths, but I see people struggling and not enjoying it. I want people to have the same fun that I have when I’m doing maths.”
“This is my second year in the Virtual Academy. I love that I can choose a subject that I’m interested in, or that inspires me – where I want to make a difference. I’m grateful that we have these opportunities to embrace our ideas and creativity.”
The Empower Exhibition reflects the Diocese’s commitment to nurturing high potential and gifted learners through opportunities that are intellectually challenging and personally meaningful. The Virtual Academy aims to support students in becoming confident, capable contributors to their communities and the wider world.
