Future Problem Solving – International Competition

Next week, Senior College student Charles Box will compete in the Future Problem Solving International Conference. Charles was invited to participate at the international level after winning his division of the Australian competition last year. There are only approximately 35 Australian representatives competing at the event so it is a phenomenal achievement to reach this level. The conference was going to be held in the United States, but with the current COVID-19 travel restrictions, it will be held virtually, with competitors from around the world connecting digitally for both the competition and networking events.

Charles is competing in the Individual Middle Division and this year’s topic is Terraforming. In a two-hour period, Charles will develop eight solution ideas to eight challenges and then submit his response booklet online. Terraforming is the process of deliberately modifying a planet or place’s atmosphere, temperature, surface topography or ecology to be similar to the environment of Earth so it is suitable for human life. Charles has a keen personal interest on this topic, which has assisted with his preparation for the event.

As well as the competition, Charles will also participate in the Opening Ceremony and a networking event online where, through the use of avatars, he will be able to connect with other participants and exchange mementos with other countries.

We congratulate Charles on this huge achievement and wish him the best of luck as he continues with his preparation for the event next week!

Mrs Jo Belchamber, Head of Learning Enrichment