Term 2 was an exceptionally busy and rewarding period for Haileybury’s Curious Minds program. We had students across all year levels embracing opportunities to learn, compete and challenge themselves beyond the traditional classroom. Through events such as intercampus debating and chess competitions, alongside the much-anticipated Curious Minds Week, there was something for everyone.
One of the highlights of the term was the very first Years 5 and 6 Intercampus Debating Competition, hosted at Newlands Campus. Students across all five Haileybury campuses came together to participate in a series of thought-provoking debates. Students debated whether teachers should have to wear a uniform and whether healthcare providers should be paid more than sports players. The competition culminated in a showcase debate between Pangea and Newlands, where they debated whether AI should be used for schoolwork. A contentious and very relevant issue that ultimately culminated with the Newlands team claiming the victory. More importantly, the event provided students with the opportunity to confidently express their ideas, consider different perspectives and experience the excitement of competitive debating.
Students also had the opportunity to participate in the Middle School Intercampus Chess Competition, hosted at Edrington Campus. With all five campuses represented, the event brought together talented young chess players for a day of strategic thinking and friendly competition. Throughout the competition, students demonstrated patience and analytical thinking as they tested their skills against peers from across the School. The day was a wonderful celebration of intellectual challenge and highlighted the growing enthusiasm for chess across Haileybury.
Curious Minds Week provided another exciting opportunity for students across Junior School, Middle School and Senior School to explore new interests and engage in immersive learning experiences. Throughout the week, our Junior School students participated in a range of incursions, including being transported to another galaxy through the CosmoDome, as well as taking part in Virtual Reality and Sports Scientist experiences. Our Middle School students heard from inspiring guest speakers and workshop facilitators who shared how they use technology in their personal and professional lives. At our Senior School Conference, a highlight for many students was the opportunity to meet Australian astronaut Eric Phillips. Eric captivated the audience as he shared his journey from polar explorer to astronaut and explained how he became part of the world’s first human spaceflight to orbit directly over both the North and South Poles. His story gave students a unique insight into exploration, resilience and human curiosity. From innovation and entrepreneurship to science, technology and personal development, Curious Minds Week showcased the value of learning beyond the classroom.
These experiences reflect the core purpose of Curious Minds: providing students with an opportunity to discover new passions, building essential skills and challenging themselves. Haileybury students continue to demonstrate that some of the most powerful learning takes place when curiosity is encouraged and explored.
Mia Haravitsidis
Head of Innovation and Entrepreneurship
