Senior College sets William on a new chapter

His journey began with uncertainty and feeling overwhelmed, but William found his confidence and voice through Senior College’s unique learning environment and dedicated support.

“When I first came to Senior College, I was unsure what to expect. But I was soon connected with incredible people like my first support officer, Grace, and my teacher, Ash, who became a steady presence in my classes and felt more like a friend,” William shared.

TAFE Queensland’s Senior College at the Alexandra Hills Campus is more than an alternative education program; it’s a life-changing community for Year 11 and 12 students in the Redlands and Greater Brisbane areas seeking a flexible and supportive pathway to success.

Over 100 students proudly graduated this year, capping off two years of tailored study that prepared them for bright futures, which the Director of Senior College, Craig Eades, is immensely proud of.

“We have been transforming lives for over 30 years through our Senior College program by providing students with a unique learning environment,” said Craig.

“There’s no ‘one size fits all’ in education, and our college is changing lives by offering a personalised approach for students who don’t fit into traditional school structures.”

Senior College allows students to work toward their Queensland Certificate of Education (QCE) or an Adult Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR) in an adult-learning environment, focusing on academic studies while also having the option to pursue practical, career-focused learning.

With a flexible timetable, students can balance their education with real-world experience through school-based apprenticeships, certificate courses, part-time work, or vocational training programs in hospitality, business, IT, nursing, and trades.

During his studies, William was welcomed into a diverse and inclusive community that encouraged individuality, with no uniforms or strict rules on appearance.

The structure also allowed him to focus on his future with a clear direction while helping him shed his metaphorical “mask” and become more open and social.

That sociability allowed William to connect and bond with classmates, teachers, and support staff who helped shape his journey and create memories.

“Senior College gave me choices and options for where I wanted to go. My teachers and the support staff always helped run things smoothly and provided personalised guidance,” explained William.

"A massive thank you goes to all my classmates, Craig Eades, Mark Jenkins, Ashleigh Smith, the amazing administration staff and our teachers, who all challenged and shaped my personality.”

“Thanks to everyone for the fun, sad, and weird times. My class and I have done it, and we should be proud. Let’s start doing, make mistakes, and take on this new chapter. Live long and prosper,” he concluded.

Craig highlights that the college’s tailored approach empowers all students to find their strengths in a supportive learning setting.

"We build individualised study programs that give them flexibility. Our inclusive environment lets students feel comfortable being their true selves, so they can focus on their education,” continued Craig.

“After graduation, students often say that they wouldn’t have had a future without Senior College, and it’s always remarkable to see how much our students have grown into remarkable young adults while they’re with us.”

“Supporting students to become successful is incredible. It’s so enriching to see our graduates leave us with meaningful skills and careers, especially considering how extremely challenging their lives have been,” Craig added.

William’s story typifies all our Senior College graduates, leaving to embark on new journeys with newfound resilience, confidence and skills for the real world.