Reflecting on 2021 and thinking ahead

It was very rewarding to see our on-campus and online students graduate recently. The event marked a significant milestone in the students’ journey towards a university education, one which was not delayed despite worldwide disruptions to everyday life. It was wonderful that students, parents and guests who were overseas could be included via livestreaming.

Guest speakers spoke insightfully about the challenges of 2021, Hannah Wilkinson, from Curtin University, and Dr Fang Liu, from the University of Western Australia, congratulated graduates on their achievement in such uncertain times. Students were reminded that their experience had resulted in a desirable skill set that future employers would value – being agile, adaptable and resilient.

The three valedictory speakers – two from our online programs – highlighted the welcoming environment provided by their teachers and the positive benefits of connecting with fellow students during the live and interactive lessons. All stressed the importance of the friendships that had been formed.

I thank our teachers for their level of professionalism and readiness to adapt. Their ability to create engaging lessons that met the needs of students, both online and on-campus, was fundamental to the success experienced by our students.

The recent government announcement that international students will return to Perth in 2022 has been warmly received and we look forward to seeing new faces on campus next year.

We will continue to offer our live and interactive online learning programs next year. This is necessary to assist during the transition period, allowing students to start their pathway studies without delay even if they are not ready to travel. Students who are enrolled at Canning in 2022 are encouraged to contact their education agents, who will be able to provide specific advice regarding visas and other requirements, or contact our office.

To those who have completed their studies with us, we wish you well in the future and hope the lessons you have learned will be invaluable as you negotiate the next stage of your academic journey. If you are moving on to a Western Australian university and you intend to be in Perth next year, please take the time to visit Canning College – we would love to see you.

The end of the academic year allows us all to reflect on our collective achievements – as staff, students and parents – and to be optimistic about the year ahead.

I hope you all have time to contemplate the past 12 months, celebrate your successes and enjoy a break before work or study calls again.

Happy holidays from all of us at Canning College.

Wayne Axford – Principal

2021 Christmas message

Great things from Term 3

In the 14 months since Canning College launched online learning programs, we have educated hundreds of students from 20 different countries, thanks mainly to two key ingredients – our experienced staff, and students who refuse to allow COVID-19 to slow down their academic progress.

Our teachers were required to adapt quickly to the new environment, and they continue to be creative in their approach to achieve a high level of student engagement.

It has been wonderful during Term 3 to see students from so many parts of the world putting their minds at work and making the most of their online learning opportunities.

Very recently we were also able to showcase what we do with some important visitors, including the Department of Education Director General Ms Lisa Rodgers. I am delighted to report that our visitors were impressed with our teaching, and also with students during their interactions face-to-face and on Webex.

2021 08 30 DG visit

Pictured above: Principal Wayne Axford (left) and Director General Lisa Rodgers (right) with Canning College student leaders.

We try to engage online students in as many on campus activities as possible and very recently connected overseas students with university staff to discuss courses and employability during our Careers Day.

While some students have very clear thoughts on their future studies, others seek guidance on the programs most suitable for their career prospects.

The end of Term 3 is a particularly busy time of the year for many students, including our Year 12s, who are preparing for mock exams in the October holiday break and final exams that are scheduled for November.

Teachers are available to clarify any areas of concern that students may discover as they revise for the exams, and I encourage all students to take advantage of this support. I also take this opportunity to wish students all the best for the exams.

Finally, on October 22, we will bring together Perth-based students and a large online cohort when we livestream a graduation event for Year 12, Certificate IV and Diploma of Commerce students.

While students online and on-campus may have had very different learning experiences, we sincerely hope this important event is memorable for all students, their parents and guests who join us in person and online.

– Wayne Axford, Principal