Innovative Distance Education Program
Distance education has become a prominent alternative to traditional schooling, offering students in Queensland a flexible and tailored learning experience. Groves Christian College stands out in this educational shift with its comprehensive Distance Education program, available from Prep to Year 12. This program adheres to the Australian Curriculum (ACARA) standards, ensuring a structured and supportive environment for all students.
Nicole Quak, the Distance Education Manager at Groves Christian College, highlights the program’s format and flexibility, which caters to families seeking off-campus learning options. “Distance Education at Groves is an online program accessible to students across Queensland. They use laptops to participate in the core curriculum with support from their Home Tutor,” Quak explained.
The Home Tutor, whether a parent, grandparent or hired professional, plays a crucial role in engaging and motivating the students. They provide essential guidance, feedback, and monitoring, especially for younger students who are not yet ready to manage their studies independently. In the primary years, students also use workbooks that complement the online program, while secondary students receive textbooks through a loan scheme similar to on-site students.
Community and Resources
Groves Christian College ensures that Distance Education students receive the same quality education as their peers in traditional settings. Students have access to a wide range of resources and are encouraged to participate in on-campus events, excursions, and camps, fostering a sense of community and belonging. These additional activities, often included in the affordable fees, provide a well-rounded educational experience.
Louise Kent, the Primary Curriculum Coordinator, described a typical school day for younger students. “Most days start with an online session focusing on English or Mathematics, and on Wednesdays, we have a live session that includes Chapel and Assembly,” she said. This structured yet flexible schedule allows students to maintain a routine similar to that of a day school, benefiting from the one-on-one attention that Distance Education provides.
Distance Education at Groves is particularly beneficial for students who thrive in a personalized learning environment. For students excelling above their standard year level, the program offers extension or interest-based activities in collaboration with the Home Tutor. This is especially crucial for students pursuing extracurricular activities or those with special needs, enabling them to balance their academic and personal goals effectively.
Widespread Reach and Impact
The program serves families across Queensland, from Cairns to Coolangatta and as far west as Dalby and Chinchilla, ensuring access to quality Christian education regardless of geographical location. “Our typical students are those looking to accelerate their learning, those engaged in extracurricular activities, and students needing a focused individual education plan,” Quak noted.
Louise Kent emphasized the positive impact of Distance Education on students’ social and emotional well-being. “I’ve seen students thrive and their confidence improves through this mode of learning,” she said. “Students who might have been nervous or not confident socially become more comfortable because they have the time and space to be themselves at home.”
This nurturing environment allows students to build confidence and develop essential social skills, reinforced through regular excursions and events. Academically, the program has proven highly effective. “In recent years, some Distance Education students have even outperformed our day school students in ATAR results,” Quak said. “This success is due to the comfort of home learning and the strong connection between teachers, Home Tutors, and students.”
