Year 10 LAUNCH Program Develops Skills for Stage 6 and Beyond

The Year 10 LAUNCH Program at Loreto Normanhurst is a four-week initiative designed to challenge and inspire students as they prepare to transition from Stage 5 to Stage 6. The program focuses on building the six key competencies of character, citizenship, collaboration, communication, creativity, and critical thinking, equipping students with the skills and confidence to navigate senior school and beyond.
LAUNCH combines a variety of immersive learning experiences. Through the Design SPRINT Program, students worked in teams to tackle real-world challenges presented by organisations. They researched and analysed problems, interviewed Subject Matter Experts, developed and refined solutions, and pitched their final ideas to a judging panel. This fast-paced, hands-on experience allowed students to apply Design Thinking principles, strengthen collaboration, and experience the innovation process from start to finish. We are grateful to the organisations who partnered with us and shared their expertise to support this program.
Students also engaged in outdoor leadership experiences, including activities designed to foster personal growth, problem-solving, communication, and teamwork. The program combined onsite challenges and offsite adventures, such as dynamic team-building exercises around Sydney’s harbour foreshore. These experiences encouraged students to think critically, work collaboratively, and develop independence while building strong connections with their peers.
In addition, students participated in work experience–style immersion opportunities, taking part in experiences aligned with their individual interests. These immersions allowed students to explore different industries, gain practical insights, and reflect on their goals for senior school and beyond.
Through the LAUNCH Program, students develop practical skills, independence, and a deeper understanding of themselves, while cultivating a lifelong love of learning and the confidence to make a positive impact in their communities. By combining creativity, problem-solving, leadership, and reflection, LAUNCH prepares our Year 10 students for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.


