Challenge
The Department of Education engaged SenateSHJ to support the merger of three schools in Orbost in regional Victoria.
Approach
Leading up to the launch of Orbost Community College, we provided strategic, change, engagement and facilitation support. We worked closely with the principals of the three schools, as well as other school and Department leaders, over two years.
Our collective goal was to create a place of learning that all students could call their own, and that was at the centre of the Orbost community.
We engaged deeply with students, parents, carers and the broader community through interviews, surveys, discussion groups and open days to explore their hopes for the new school, community aspirations, learning pathways, and even naming options for the new P–12 setting.
We worked closely with school leaders and staff to craft the school’s vision and purpose.
We also created a new brand and website to support the school’s launch.
Outcome
Orbost Community College opened in Term 1, 2024, and early feedback suggests a strong and positive start.
“SenateSHJ walked alongside us as we undertook the significant task of merging three local schools to form Orbost Community College. They engaged our students, staff and families to shape our identity and vision, building community confidence in the P-12 model and generating excitement for opening day. They supported us every step of the way, from early engagement through to day-one planning.”
Peter Seal, School Principal of Orbost Community College