A huge congratulation to Genevieve, Sarah, Millie and Elena who were invited to represent Ivanhoe Girls’ at the National Finals of Future Problem Solvers in ‘Global Issues Problem Solving’, Senior division (Years 10-12). The team received second place for their Action Research Plan Presentation and fifth place for their written booklet.  Fiona Finch (Year 9) was also invited to attend the Middle Division (Years 7 to 9) but was unable to do so, due to her commitment to the Tournament of the Minds competition held over the same weekend.

Global Issues Problem Solving (GPIS) is a team or individual activity in which participants research a series of global topics and learn a six-step creative problem-solving process. Participants apply their knowledge and the six-step process to address an imagined situation in the future. They produce a written document (a paper or virtual booklet) critically analysing and solving a major issue within the Future Scene.

Looking at the program through the lens of education, Global Issues Problem Solving provides a fantastic framework for students to become responsible global citizens and lifelong learners. It equips young people to be entrepreneurs and innovators and socially responsible changemakers as they tackle issues critical to the success of future generations. Students learn the skills to create solutions to complex problems, evaluate those solutions and turn them into workable actions.

Ivanhoe Girls’ has a long history of involvement and success in FPS. I encourage any student who is interested to speak with Mrs Jodie Smith who has been instrumental in supporting all our teams throughout 2022. Well done to all students who participated in FPS throughout the year and thank you to Mrs Smith for her mentoring and support of the students involved.

Ms Louisa Scerri
Director of Learning and Innovation