Yarra Ranges Tech School is part of the Victorian Government's commitment to make Victoria the 'Education State'. We draw on the Lilydale Lakeside Campus, facilities and our stakeholders to introduce students to the applications of human-centred design thinking and innovative leading-edge technologies as a means of problem solving real-world challenges.
We also introduce teachers to new pedagogies and ways to bring technology into the classroom. Our programs emphasise critical Enterprise skills in addition to Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics (STEAM) skills required for the 21st century.
We use a six-stage thinking process to allow students to experience collaboration as a team to solve real-world problems and develop new opportunities. The double diamond model allows students to use both divergent and convergent thinking applying their foundational skills learnt at school in a practical application. This model allows tailoring of our programs to suit different learning needs, class structures and outcomes.
At each stage of the process, we seek students to adopt a particular mindset, skillset and toolset.
How you see, perceive and view the world around you
How you act and behave based on your capabilities, knowledge & understanding
What mechanisms you use to develop your skills and achieve your objectives
A fundamental principle of Tech School programs is ensuring that students are accessing leading-edge technologies and being introduced to current trends, issues and opportunities in the real world. Yarra Ranges Tech School achieves this by working closely with our industry, tertiary and community partners on the development of our learning programs. There stakeholders contribute content, expertise, advice and in some cases, site-tour opportunities for our students.
Ashley joined us from Monash Tech School and has a background in both Social Sciences (Economics) and Science (Geology) giving him a unique perspective on how innovation and technology is applied on all aspects of life. His experience in a variety of extremely innovative and technology focused industries drives his passion to work with students and teachers to increase STEM engagement. As a former manager of Emerging Sciences Victoria, Ashley has a keen interest in how technology can bridge divides - geographical, social and economic. His naturally curious mind drives many ideas – a few of which we let him pursue!
Shivneel hails from the friendly island of Fiji, with background studies in Physics (with emphasis on electronics and Renewables) and living daily life based on the quote from Darynda Jones: “If it weren’t for physics and law enforcement, I’d be unstoppable.” STEM to me encompasses every part of our lives, from the leaves whistling in the wind to the rockets flying into space thus allowing me to dream beyond what is now and dream beyond what could be.
Zoe started her career as a Primary School teacher falling in love with science, art and technology because they encourage student engagement by allowing them to have more freedom and explored curiosity. We are thrilled to have Zoe on board as one of our facilitators to work alongside the students to facilitate the integration of natural curiosity and innovative thinking with increased capability and understanding. Every project is exciting and the possibilities seem limitless, that is why she loves her job and working at YRTS.
Stacie has an extensive background and vast knowledge of events which we are excited for her to bring to our team and demonstrate with our current and future events. Although Stacie is new to STEM she is eager to learn all of the new technology that is available to our schools and community. Stacie is enjoying working within a close team to help support the smooth running of the school and make everyone’s lives a little easier.
