Turning Local Problems into Big Ideas
Esperance Senior High School recently welcomed Dr Renae Jones and Ms Thea Economos from Young Change Agents to deliver the Impact Boss program. The visit was part of the school’s involvement in the Entrepreneurial Schools Project and gave 38 Year 7 and 8 students the opportunity to develop solutions to problems in their local community.
From Big Ideas to Real Solutions
Students used the design thinking process to identify a local problem, explore possible solutions and develop an idea for a social enterprise. Working in teams, they considered who would benefit from their idea, how it would operate and how they could clearly explain its value. At the end of the day, each group pitched its idea to Ms Silburn Barker.
The students developed a wide range of creative ideas. These included virtual reality headsets to train local sporting umpires, a jewellery range that recognised and celebrated the individuality of young women, and a two-in-one deodorant and insect repellent. Other ideas included a local clothing market offering more choices for young people and a remote-area first aid kit made from recycled plastic recovered from local beaches. One group even designed an app to help local artists sell their work online as a way of responding to the challenges that artificial intelligence is creating for emerging artists.
Building Skills for the Future
The Impact Boss program supported the skills and capabilities developed through Esperance SHS’s STRIVE program. By working together to solve problems, respond to feedback and present their ideas, students demonstrated teamwork, resilience and innovation. Their positive attitudes, creativity and respectful participation reflected exceptionally well on Esperance Senior High School and the wider Esperance community.
Through experiences like this, the school continues to nurture confident, creative and future-ready learners who are prepared to make a positive difference in their community.
