Elite Pursuits Program
Julie Kennedy
ACC Marsden Park caters for a broad range of students, and we have recently employed an Elite Pursuits Program Coordinator to provide additional support to students who fit the criteria of ‘elite pursuits’. We asked Julie Kennedy to provide some more information about how this program operates and report on some recent achievements from our current students.
What is our Elite Pursuits Program?
The Elite Pursuits Program allows students to access a quality education with flexibility for those who are highly committed to their field of specialisation in sports or arts. Distance Education provides access to courses, programs and credentials of the highest quality and rigour, coupled with flexibility in the learning schedule (which may also include provision of adjustments in courses and assessments).
How do students qualify for this program?
Families with students who may fit the above criteria are welcome to contact our Enrolments Team for more information, or go to our website to complete an application form online.
How do we support Elite Pursuits students?
The Elite Pursuits Program Coordinator seeks to find the best ways to support students individually. This is done by working alongside the student, and their nominated supervisor, to plan how best to complete required course content and assessments that may be due whilst the students are competing or performing in their chosen activities. It is not our aim to 'get students out of work'. Rather, our goal will always be to 'get students through their studies' by providing support, direction and uncommon care.
Some exciting achievements and upcoming events for students in this program
Student: Vesna Marinkov (Year 9)
Elite Pursuit: Tennis
Just over 12 months ago, Vesna took out a clean sweep at the Australian Masters, winning her age category for Singles, Girls Doubles and taking out the Mixed Doubles with fellow ACC Marsden Park Elite Pursuits Program student, Har Abir Sekhon. A triple National Champion: what an amazing achievement! Just last week, Vesna was selected for the 2024 Australian Team to play at the Under 14 World Junior Championships next month in Singapore. This selection was based on her outstanding performance at the Australian Masters and recent National events. An amazing achievement by this incredibly talented ACC student!
Student: Natalie Petkovic (Year 10)
Elite Pursuit: Irish Dance
Natalie recently competed in the All Ireland Championships with amazing results, placing 16th out of more than 160 competitors from all over the world. Natalie was the highest placed Australian and has qualified for the World Championships in Scotland. Such a wonderful achievement: well done Natalie!
Student: Charlie Duwner (Year 9)
Elite Pursuit: Ballet
An amazingly talented dancer, Charlie recently toured Australia with the Australian Ballet School, dancing in The Nutcracker. Charlie has also been an invitee for the Australian Ballet School several times and has earned himself a scholarship spot with John Cranko School in Stuttgart, Germany! Following his stint in Germany, Charlie will travel to Antwerp, Belgium to dance with the Royal Ballet School. Charlie has earned many more accolades with his dancing; these are just the recent highlights. Such an impressive list of achievements Charlie, well done!
