In today’s fast-changing world, preparing young people for life beyond the classroom requires more than academic excellence; it calls for real-world experiences, career insights and strong community networks.
Carey Baptist Grammar School is responding to this need through Carey Academy, an innovative initiative that brings together learning, connection and career exploration under one banner.
Carey Academy is a community learning hub connecting alumni, parents, students, staff and friends of the School through networking events, internships, a business directory, entrepreneurship programs and professional development seminars. The program is designed not only to support students’ future pathways, but also to promote lifelong learning and deeper community engagement.
“Carey Academy represents the best of what a school community can offer: shared knowledge, intergenerational support and opportunities to grow at every stage of life,” explains Kaushini Fernando, Carey’s Alumni and Community Manager who leads the Carey Academy initiative.
“It’s about creating meaningful connections that enrich careers and lives.”
One community, endless opportunities
At the heart of Carey Academy is a commitment to preparing young people for the future of work. Through events like Industry Week, students and alumni engage directly with leaders from industries including agriculture, space, business, finance and technology. Panels, networking nights and hands-on workshops offer practical insight into emerging fields and equip attendees with tools to navigate career decisions with confidence.
The newly launched Internship Program provides young alumni with valuable workplace experience through short-term placements with organisations from within the Carey community. These internships give young adults a chance to apply their skills in a professional setting while building networks and gaining clarity on their future direction. In turn, participating businesses benefit from fresh thinking and emerging talent.
For those with entrepreneurial ambitions, the Startup Sprint invites aspiring founders to develop their business or social enterprise ideas through a two-day intensive program. Participants are mentored by leading startup specialists within the Carey Community, transforming early-stage concepts into purpose-driven ventures.
A model for community-driven education
Carey Academy is built on the belief that everyone in our community has something valuable to offer and something to gain. By drawing on the incredible knowledge, experience and generosity of our community, we’re creating a dynamic learning network where every member can contribute and benefit. Whether it’s hosting an intern, speaking at an event or attending a seminar, community members are inspiring and supporting one another in ways that elevate the whole Carey experience.
As schools across Australia seek ways to better prepare students for the future, Carey Academy offers a compelling model of how education, community and career preparation can come together to support lifelong learning and career confidence.
Learn more about Carey Academy here.
