MoU builds higher education pathways for FlexiSchool students

Vice-Chancellor Professor Bill Lovegrove and CHSHS Principal Maryanne Walsh sign the MoU

Students of the Toowoomba FlexiSchool will have stronger pathways to undertake higher education at the University of Southern Queensland (USQ) after the two organisations signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at the University on Tuesday 15 July 2008.

Developed in 1998 as a community-based education initiative for marginalised young people, the Toowoomba FlexiSchool operates under the umbrella of Centenary Heights State High School (CHSHS).

The MoU was signed by USQ Vice-Chancellor Professor Bill Lovegrove and Principal of CHSHS Maryanne Walsh.

Professor Lovegrove acknowledged the many supporters of the FlexiSchool - Education Queensland, Toowoomba East Rotary Club, Friends of the FlexiSchool; Toowoomba Older Men's Network (TOMNET) and numerous USQ staff in his address.

'Three of our main priorities at USQ are our staff, social inclusion and community partnerships. The MoU with the FlexiSchool involves all three of these areas.

'We pride ourselves on giving educational opportunities to people who aren't necessarily traditional students. The FlexiSchool is a wonderful opportunity and wonderful example of that.'

Ms Walsh said she is excited about the opportunities the MoU brings for the School and the University.

'The MoU formalises the ability to do meaningful research on the FlexiSchool which will look at the history and the strengths and to provide training for staff and pathways for students,' Ms Walsh said.

'It's a win/win situation.'

Ms Walsh also acknowledged Bede Quinlivan, a former FlexiSchool student who is now studying Arts at USQ.

'Bede is our first translator to go from the FlexiSchool to USQ. Hopefully he will be the first of many as the mindset develops to a position where students think they can do it.'

Bede spoke of how his experience with the FlexiSchool shaped his life.

'I wanted to drop out of school at the end of grade ten.

'I thought I couldn't get any more out of school and there was nothing else they could teach me.

'Someone suggested I try the FlexiSchool, so I did. It is such a great environment.

'I was lucky to have the chance to go to uni. I never really thought I could or that I'd have the chance to.

'I can't express how good this will be for future students of the FlexiSchool. This is really, really great.'

Media Contact: Jane Urquhart USQ Media +61 7 4631 2559