Big Picture Learning Program

The key components of the BPL model at Fairbridge College include:

• Personalised Learning Plans (PLPs): Every student has a PLP co-created with their advisor (teacher-mentor), integrating academic goals, wellbeing supports, and vocational interests. These plans are tailored to each learner’s needs and address social-emotional, academic, and career development goals.
• Advisory Structure: Small advisory groups create a consistent, safe learning environment. The advisor becomes a key adult in the student’s life, fostering connection, trust, and advocacy. This structure supports students with high needs, trauma backgrounds, or school refusal.
• Interest-Based Internships (LTI – Learning Through Internship): Students spend up to two days per week in real-world placements aligned with their interests. Internships are connected to VET qualifications where appropriate, helping students build industry experience and competencies.
• VET Integration: Vocational Education and Training (VET) options are embedded in the program, often linked to students’ internship areas. Students work toward nationally recognised certificates (e.g. Cert I/II in Hospitality, Community Services, etc.) through partnerships with our RTO.
• Project-Based Learning: Students complete projects based on real-world problems or interests, often integrating their internship experience. Projects are assessed against curriculum outcomes and competencies, including literacy, numeracy, and general capabilities.
• Exhibition of Learning: Rather than traditional exams, students present their learning, projects, and growth in public exhibitions. This builds confidence, communication skills, and accountability.
• Pathways & Transitions: The BPL model prepares students for post-school options, including further training, apprenticeships, and employment. Strong connections with industry mentors and VET providers support smooth transitions.

The BPL model is especially powerful in a CARE (Curriculum and Reengagement in Education) school like Fairbridge because:

• It Centres the Student: Young people are seen as active creators of their learning, not passive recipients. 

• It Builds Relationships First: The advisory model ensures students feel known, valued, and supported—critical for trauma-informed education. 

• It Connects Learning to Life: Real-world application through LTIs helps students see a purpose to learning and imagine a future for themselves. 

• It Supports Individual Growth: Students work at their own level and pace, reducing comparison and increasing motivation. 

• It Fosters Identity and Belonging: Projects reflect cultural, personal, and community contexts—deepening student pride and connection. 

Through BPL, students at Fairbridge College experience: 

• Stronger Engagement: Students are more likely to attend, participate, and take ownership of their learning. 

• Improved Academic and Personal Growth: Literacy, numeracy, and critical thinking are developed through meaningful, authentic tasks. 

• Workplace Readiness: Through internships, students build employability skills and connect with adult mentors and career possibilities.
• Communication and Confidence: Presenting exhibitions helps students develop public speaking, reflection, and goal-setting skills.
• Pathway Clarity: Students can visualise and work towards a future that matters to them—be it further education, training, or employment.