Sometimes the journey of learning leads far beyond the classroom. Sometimes it leads all the way to the other side of the world. Earlier this month, nine of our Years 7-8 students represented William Clarke College and their country at the Future Problem Solving (FPS) Program International Conference in Bloomington, Indiana, a global gathering that brought together over 2200 students from 11 countries and more than 260 schools.

What is FPS, you may ask? Future Problem Solving is an international education program that equips students to think critically, creatively and compassionately about complex real-world issues. Rather than simply imagining a better future, students are encouraged to design one – learning how to think, not what to think. The skills they gain are lifelong including problem-solving, collaboration, curiosity and a deep understanding of how to be a force for positive change.

After being named National Champions in their respective disciplines at the FPS National Finals in Melbourne last October, this team of talented students were invited to attend the 2025 International Conference held at the University of Indiana. The event was the culmination of months of hard work and consistent dedication, along with plenty of imagination and creativity.

For the 2025 International Conference, the challenge topic was ‘The Future of History’ where problem solvers were required to address how we might preserve, protect and safeguard historical knowledge, sites, structures, records and artifacts in the future. Elijah, a well-versed FPS student who has been competing in the program for four years, represented Australia in Global Issues Problem Solving, responding to a challenging futuristic scenario based on this year’s particularly challenging topic. “Elijah diligently studied the Future of History topic and completed various problem-solving practice activities,” said Mrs Wolnizer. “He established a robust understanding of the structure and requirements of the six-step problem-solving process and completed online training with Mr Dylan Sherman, the FPS International Board of Trustees President.”

In Scenario Performance, Cassandra and Katelyn each performed an original futuristic five-minute monologue, written, memorised and delivered entirely on their own. Both girls have previous experience in Scenario Performance and after studying the topic and crafting their scripts, they brought their story to life with passion and clarity.

For the Bridge the Gap team of David, Josh, Hamish, Mirabel, Levi and Lola, their long-term Community Problem Solving project has already been making a real impact at the College. According to Mrs Wolnizer, “their project, which they’ve been working on since January 2024, has helped our Kindergarten students for whom English is another Language or Dialect (EAL/D) build their language skills and feel connected to the community. In fact, their initiatives continue to make a difference.”

The preparation for this team was intense with a 2000-word proposal, a 3500-word report, a project video and a 40-page portfolio required before the conference. The learning extended far beyond what was submitted before they even left Australia though. They also set up a display which was a standout at the Conference Showcase and were interviewed for 30 minutes about their project.

During their time in Indiana, students attended workshops, explored a world-class university campus and connected with peers from around the globe. It was certainly an eye-opening experience that these nine extraordinary learners will never forget. “There’s something really special about seeing our students immersed in such a vibrant, international learning environment,” reflected Mrs Wolnizer. “They learned so much: not just about their projects, but about themselves and about the world.”

However, one of the most moving moments came not during competition but in the quiet, steady way the students supported each other. “Every parent and student came to the Community Problem Solving Showcase to support the team,” said Mrs Wolnizer. “They all came to see Katelyn’s performance and most stayed for Cassandra’s, even though she wasn’t on stage until 9:00pm! While Elijah’s event wasn’t open to observers, everyone was keen to ask him about it at the following event. He absolutely lit up from having so much interest and support. There was such kindness and camaraderie throughout the conference and the entire group really championed each other.”

It was also wonderful to see Cassandra take to the stage in a completely different way by speaking on a student panel about her inspiration for competing in FPS. She also had the honour of representing NSW as the official flag bearer in the Opening Ceremony. When asked what the students took away from the trip, Mrs Wolnizer didn’t hesitate to demonstrate her pride for these remarkable young learners. “They came away with full hearts and full minds,” she said. “They learned a lot about other cultures, interacting with others from vastly different backgrounds, developed their communication and collaboration skills, as well as solving important and complex issues that impact the global population.”

We thank God for the blessing of Mrs Wolnizer, our Gifted and Talented teacher (P-6) and for Mr Dean Smith, Head of Primary School. Without their steadfast encouragement, guidance and care, this journey would not have been possible. To the nine incredible FPS students: thank you for showing the College community what it looks like to step forward with courage, humility, creativity and resolve. You carried more than just your passports to Indiana – you carried a love for learning, a passion for problem-solving and a focus on the future.

By Catherine Sanchez, Publications Officer