The heart of learning at Phillip Island Village School

At Phillip Island Village School (PIVS), Ventnor, project-based learning is an important part of how we support students to engage deeply with their learning.

Projects provide opportunities for students to explore their own interests and pursue ideas that genuinely matter to them.

Through this process, they are encouraged to test their thinking, take creative risks and learn through trial, reflection and refinement.

This supports the development of a growth mindset, where challenges and mistakes are seen as a natural and valuable part of learning.

Alongside this, students build a range of enterprise skills such as communication, collaboration, problem solving, creative thinking and initiative, as they work independently and with others to bring their ideas to life.

Principal Kate Eastcott said project-based learning at PIVS was about more than the final product.

"It's about the process; developing curiosity, building relationships, and learning how to learn," Kate said.

"When students are given genuine opportunities to make choices and follow their interests, they are more engaged, more resilient and more connected to their learning."

Projects

Personal Projects are student-generated ideas, based on individual interests or "sparks."

These may be undertaken independently or in small, self-directed groups, with mentors supporting students to plan, develop and reflect on their learning.

Mentor Projects are collaborative, mentor-led "sign-up" opportunities offered at various points throughout the year.

Mentors pitch project ideas, and students choose the projects that resonate with them.

These projects often bring together mixed-age groups and integrate multiple areas of the curriculum.

Mentors provide guidance and explicit instruction at the point of need, helping students to build both foundational skills and the ability to apply them in authentic contexts.

At PIVS, learning is not one-size-fits-all.