The Purpose of ReimaginED for Juniors
ReimaginED for Juniors was designed to empower young students to experience and identify the logistics and organisation required to create an event and explore and present their ideas on regeneration.  The event aimed to show that children are future leaders, current thinkers, and innovators.

The depth of the questions posed by the students was truly remarkable. They tackled complex themes that even adults find challenging:

• 'Can you regenerate relationships even if it doesn't feel like they can be healed?'
• 'Is it possible for a learner to stay self-regulated?'
• 'What inspired you to write a book?'
• 'Which books changed your life?'
• 'What are some ways we can regenerate relationships?'
• 'What is more important, sustainability or regeneration?'

These questions reflect the children's ability to think deeply about healing, self-regulation, and inspiration. Their insights remind us that children possess a unique wisdom that is often underestimated.

One of the panellists, Sarah Pirie-Nally, wrote about the event and explained that the reason children think so expansively and creatively can be attributed to the neuroplasticity of their brains. During childhood, the brain undergoes significant development, with an overproduction of synapses that peak around age six. This allows children to absorb new ideas and concepts rapidly. Their prefrontal cortex, responsible for decision-making and self-regulation, is still developing, making them more open to exploring ideas without the constraints adults often face.

 In the breakout sessions, Sarah also delved into strategies for regenerating relationships and maintaining self-regulation. One student asked, "Is it possible for a learner to stay self-regulated?" The discussion included mindfulness, breathing techniques, and the importance of breaks to maintain focus and emotional balance. These are qualities that children intuitively understand but that adults sometimes overlook.

 Events like ReimaginED for Juniors demonstrate that children are eager to explore complex ideas. The current education system often fails to recognise the potential of young minds. By shifting our approach, we can create an environment where children feel empowered to explore, ask questions, and innovate from a young age.  Education’s future lies in seeing children as thought leaders, collaborators, and active participants in building a world that values regeneration, compassion, and creativity.

 The wisdom and creativity displayed by the students at Woodleigh School's ReimaginED for Juniors event underscore the need for an educational framework that nurtures children's instinctive wonder.  By supporting their curiosity, we lay the foundation for them to become open-minded, empathetic, and resilient adults. The power to reimagine lies within all of us, regardless of age. These young minds are not just the leaders of tomorrow; they are today's thinkers, creators, and change-makers.

Graphic recording artist Jessamy Gee skilfully captured the panel discussions and breakout sessions. Her images, pictured below, synthesise the depth of conversation and insight from panellists and students alike. The Foundation to Year 2 team collaborated across campus to create a memorable day for all who attended. The students confirmed the importance of nurturing curiosity and creativity from a young age.

KAREN CHAUR 
DIRECTOR OF LEARNING – Primary Years - WOODLEIGH SCHOOL