Learning through Internship

At Cooks Hill Campus students extend their learning beyond the classroom through Learning Through Internship (LTI). This is a key part of the Big Picture model and reflects our belief in “Leaving to Learn” ... the idea that powerful learning happens when students connect with the real world. Through the LTI experience students learn to interact with adults and how to ‘be’ in the adult world. This learning is built into their school curriculum and their achievements are evidenced in their portfolio and in public exhibitions of their learning.

Learning Through Internship (LTI)

During an internship, students spend one- two days each week (usually Tuesday) in a workplace connected to their interests and future pathways.

These experiences allow students to develop mentorship relationships with professionals in the community, providing authentic insight into industries, careers and real-world problem solving.

Through connection and mentorship, students deepen their understanding of their Personal Interest Projects and strengthen the academic rigour of their learning.

The experiences and insights gained in the workplace feed directly into their research, portfolios and exhibitions of learning.

Internships usually run for one school term, though the structure can be flexible.

Some mentors may prefer a block internship of 5–10 days across the term depending on workplace needs.

Each internship is unique and shaped by the student’s interests, the mentor’s expertise and the opportunities within the workplace.

Advisors work closely with students and mentors to ensure the experience supports both personal growth and academic learning.

Students are covered by the NSW Department of Education Workplace Learning Insurance during their internship.

How Students Contribute

Internships are designed to be mutually beneficial. Students support their mentor and workplace by:

volunteering regularly and contributing to real workplace tasks
designing or completing a meaningful project that benefits the organisation
demonstrating initiative, commitment and maturity
being professional with staff/clients
showing curiosity and a genuine interest in the industry

These experiences help students develop confidence, workplace skills and deeper understanding of their project topics.

The Role of the Mentor

Mentors play a powerful role in helping students connect learning with real-world practice. Depending on their time and the nature of their work, mentors may:

share their professional knowledge and passion for their field
introduce students to workplace expectations / professional behaviour
help students develop a project that contributes to the organisation
connect students with professionals in the workplace or industry
challenge student thinking, encourage them to extend their ideas

These mentorship relationships strengthen student confidence, independence, academic thinking and apply the Big Picture Learning Goals in authentic contexts.