For Henry’s family, who live in Geelong, Victoria, choosing the right school was about more than just academics, it was about finding a learning environment where Henry could truly thrive.
After attending his local primary school, Henry (Year 8) and his parents, Jessica and David, decided to enrol in Haileybury Pangea Online School. They were attracted by the School’s unique combination of flexibility, academic offerings and individualised support. They were also familiar with the excellent reputation of Haileybury’s Melbourne-based schools.
“Our three children have all taken different paths and for Henry we wanted a supportive environment where his love of learning was matched by a curriculum that would extend and challenge him but still have space to nurture individual interests,” explains mum Jessica.
For many regional Australian families, the logistics of accessing high-quality education can be challenging. Traditional, bricks and mortar classroom settings often mean long commutes or limited subject choices.
For Henry, learning from home has been a game changer, as it allows him to learn in an environment where he naturally feels more comfortable. “Henry’s confidence has grown, and he is excited to share with us what he’s learnt in class,” says Jessica.
Henry also enjoys the comfort and independence that online learning with Haileybury Pangea offers him. “I love learning, and I feel more comfortable and confident at home. Being in traditional school was very stressful for me. I was involved in the decision to attend Haileybury Pangea and researched the School with my parents. I’m proud to attend the School,” he says.
A strong support network has also played a key role in Henry’s positive experience. The family have been impressed by the teaching and pastoral care at Haileybury Pangea.
Jessica says that Henry’s teacher, and Head of Middle School at Haileybury Pangea, Tim Christie, has had a hugely positive impact on him. “Tim has been a positive influence and instrumental in the success Henry has had this year,” she says.
As Henry has settled into his new school, the family have enjoyed being welcomed into the Haileybury Pangea community.
Jessica shares that “Henry’s online classes are delivered just as they would be onsite, if anything better, as the students are immersed in learning through a variety of platforms. The students communicate and build friendships the same as in a regular school and the teachers deliver classes in a way that fosters connection. We feel like we are part of a community.”
Henry’s favourite subject is Maths, which is a challenge he enjoys. He also appreciates the broad range of subjects and specialist weeks on offer at Haileybury Pangea, such as Coding, Physical Education, Art and Music.
The added benefit of attending Haileybury Pangea is that the learning model fosters independence. Typically, classes included a range of weekly, live online lessons partnered with self-paced learning tasks during each week. “The curriculum takes a wholistic approach in developing effective learners but also guides individuals to develop agency. Being online learners doesn’t diminish the experience. In our opinion it enhances it,” comments Jessica.
One of the greatest advantages for regional families like Henry’s is the added bonus of the flexibility that Haileybury Pangea offers. Henry is a competitive swimmer who trains four times a week with the Melbourne Swimming Club. He recently competed at the Victorian State Age Short Course Championships under the S19 classification for swimmers with autism, bringing home six medals. This impressive haul included a gold in the 100m butterfly, four silver and one bronze.
The flexibility of online learning means Henry can also pursue his interests, such as swimming, alongside his studies. It also gives him time for more reading and riding. “My dad and I cycle each Sunday. However, my favourite pastime is reading and I am always looking for new book series to enjoy,” he says.
Haileybury Pangea offers enrolments for students with residential addresses in Victoria, and the Northern Territory.
Henry’s family encourages other regional families to consider online learning. Jessica observes, “The classes are filled with happy chatter, and the teachers have created an environment where the connection is real. Extra activities and excursions are there for students who want more.”
“We are thankful to Haileybury for being leaders in this space and for challenging traditional models. Enabling students to learn differently will lead to better outcomes. No matter where you live you can have an amazing education,” says Jessica.
For Henry, Haileybury Pangea has opened up a world of opportunity and a new way of learning and growing.
