In a world evolving at extraordinary speed, young people need more than strong academic foundations. They need the confidence to express their ideas, the creativity to solve new problems, the social awareness to collaborate and the curiosity to keep learning long after they leave school. At Haileybury, we see these qualities flourish when students step beyond the classroom and immerse themselves in co-curricular and extra-curricular experiences.
Curious Minds brings together co-curricular and extra-curricular experiences in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) and LEAP (Literature, Entrepreneurship, Arts and Politics). Students at Haileybury have access to a broad range of programs under STEM and LEAP that they can get involved in from Junior School right through to Senior School.
A recent OECD survey on social and emotional skills highlights a concerning trend: relatively few young people are participating in extra-curricular activities. The study found that students who do take part show higher levels of key social and emotional skills, particularly assertiveness, sociability, creativity and curiosity.
This global research reinforces what we see every day in our classrooms, studios, on our stages and on our sporting fields. Taking part in a broad range of programs helps young people build the habits, attitudes and strengths they need to thrive in an ever-evolving world.
The essential skills every child needs for the future
Assertiveness
Students who learn to speak up, whether in a debate, a leadership program or while pitching an idea in an entrepreneurship class, begin to trust their own voice. They gain the confidence to take initiative, back themselves and step into new opportunities.
In the Middle School, our Radio Club helps students develop and broadcast their own program on Southern FM. Students meet regularly to plan segments, write scripts and record content, building confidence through teamwork and real-world communication. Two students even had the opportunity to interview Old Haileyburian Oscar Piastri ahead of the Melbourne Formula 1.
Creativity
Creativity is no longer reserved for the arts. Whether designing a prototype, developing a robotics solution, rehearsing a performance or solving real-world challenges through Curious Minds, creativity becomes a practical tool for innovation.
In the Middle School Maths Talent Quest, students practise creative thinking by designing their own mathematical investigations and crafting original problems to explore. Some of this year’s questions include: “What if circles didn’t exist?” and “How many solar panels would we need for Haileybury City to run independently on solar energy?” Tasks like these ask students to imagine alternatives, test assumptions and refine ideas, showing how creativity powers deep thinking in STEM.
Curiosity
Our Curious Minds programs ignite a love of exploration. When students are encouraged to ask questions, pursue new interests and stretch themselves, curiosity becomes a lifelong habit. This habit fuels continuous growth.
In our Senior School Linguistics Club, students work in cross-campus teams to tackle the challenges of the OzCLO (Australian Computational and Linguistics Olympiad) Linguistics Competition. As they decode unfamiliar languages and test possible solutions, students learn to ask better questions, persist through uncertainty and refine their thinking. This year marked the first time students from all campuses, including Pangea, competed together, and one team progressed to the national round with the chance to qualify for the World Championships in Romania.
Quality over quantity: what parents should know
At Haileybury, we do not aim to make students busier. We aim to help them become more confident, more capable and more balanced versions of themselves. A meaningful commitment to one or two activities often has greater impact than spreading across many. Students need space for academics, rest, friendships and family life.
When a student finds a program they genuinely enjoy, they develop intrinsic motivation, make deeper connections and grow in ways that cannot be replicated in the classroom alone.
How parents can support their child’s journey
You play an important role in helping your child discover what excites them. You can encourage them to try something new, to be brave enough to step into unfamiliar territory, or to continue with an activity that challenges them in healthy ways. Talk with them about what they value, what brings them joy and what helps them feel confident.
Celebrate effort, not perfection. Most importantly, remind them that growth happens over time through practice, resilience and experiences that stretch them.
A final thought
Co-curricular and extra-curricular activities create friendships, purpose and experiences that shape character and confidence. If students are curious, there is a place for them in Curious Minds. It does not matter whether they are trying something new for the first time or are in the final year at Haileybury. They are encouraged to get involved, build new skills and discover the experiences that will help them thrive in a changing world.
Mia Haravitsidis
Head of Innovation & Entrepreneurship
