NSW high school adopts four day week to embrace tech changes

Chevalier College, a Catholic high school in Bowral, NSW, is set to implement a four-day school week starting next year after a successful trial in 2024. This innovative approach allows senior students to learn from home one day a week, promoting self-directed learning. The initiative aims to adapt education to the demands of a rapidly evolving technological landscape, moving away from traditional methods that emphasize standardization. The trial revealed that students developed better time management and independent learning skills. However, younger students expressed a need for more structure, leading to adjustments in the program. Year 7 and 8 students will spend part of Mondays in the school hall to engage with foundational content before attending classes in person. Feedback from parents highlighted concerns regarding the lack of support for younger students, prompting the school to refine its approach. Chevalier College plans to introduce induction programs for new Year 7 students, focusing on flexible learning and self-regulation skills. This will help junior students adapt to the new system and enhance their learning experience. Senior students will have the flexibility to choose from over 50 subjects for their Higher School Certificate (HSC), with only a few mandatory courses. The research findings from this initiative will be shared with other schools, potentially influencing broader educational reforms. Chevalier College's decision marks a significant shift in educational practices, encouraging other institutions to consider similar changes.