NextGen Tech Leaders Academy
Year 9 & 10
Premium Tech + AI + App Development + Systems Thinking Pathway (Secondary)
A high-challenge program for Year 9–10 students who are ready to move beyond “basic coding” and start building real projects with stronger technical skill, clearer thinking, and greater confidence.
NextGen Tech Leaders Academy develops students as builders and problem-solvers—not just learners—through guided, multi-week projects where they learn to plan, build, test, improve, and present like real creators.
Who this program is for
This academy is ideal for students who:
enjoy technology, coding, gaming, or creating digital projects and want a bigger challenge
are considering pathways into VCE Applied Computing, VCE Software Development/Data Analytics, or future tech careers
want structured progression (not random weekly activities)
are ready to build a portfolio and develop confidence in communication and teamwork
What makes it “Premium”
Project-based (multi-week builds)
Students work on larger projects that develop depth, persistence, and real capability.
Higher challenge, stronger support
We teach core concepts clearly, then extend students with stretch tasks and coaching feedback.
Real-world process
Students learn a repeatable framework: Plan → Build → Test → Improve → Present
Pathway + leadership growth
Students build teamwork, independence, and the ability to explain their work with confidence.
What students will learn and do
Across the term, students will build capability in:
Coding & software thinking (structure, logic, debugging, clean habits)
Systems thinking (how parts connect, constraints, trade-offs, testing)
AI foundations + responsible use (practical use, evaluation, ethics basics)
Application building (web/app prototypes, UI/UX thinking, user outcomes)
Communication (presenting projects, explaining decisions, reflection)
Tools and pathways (guided + age-appropriate)
Depending on student readiness and the term’s project stream, students may use:
Python (automation, logic challenges, data projects)
Web / App Development (HTML/CSS/JS or app prototyping projects)
AI foundations (prompting, evaluation, responsible use, mini projects)
Cyber & digital security basics (safe systems, privacy, threat thinking)
Optional extensions
(We choose tools based on learning outcomes—not trends—so students build transferable skills.)
What parents can expect
A clear pathway with visible progress each term
A premium learning environment: structured, encouraging, and high standards
Regular progress notes and “next steps” guidance
Skills that support school performance, confidence, and future pathways
Outcomes by the end of a term
Students should be able to:
plan and complete a multi-week project with guidance
code with stronger structure, debugging habits, and clearer logic
explain how their project works and why they made key decisions
contribute confidently in a team and work more independently
Join NextGen Tech Leaders Academy (Years 9–10) and help your teen build future-ready skills through meaningful projects—while enjoying the challenge of real creation.
Course Description
Core Module
- NextGen Tech Leaders Core Pathway (Years 9–10) Students build advanced capability through term-based, multi-week projects that develop: structured coding and problem-solving, systems thinking, documentation habits, teamwork, communication, and presentation skills.
Specialist Streams
Across the academic year, students rotate through specialist streams that extend their skills and keep learning fresh:
Python Projects (Applied Coding + Automation)
AI Foundations (Responsible use + practical mini-projects)
App / Web Development (Build real interfaces + user-focused thinking)
Cyber & Digital Systems (security basics + safe-by-design habits)
Data & Insights (clean, analyse, visualise, communicate)
Each stream runs throughout the year, with new projects and challenges introduced every term so students continue progressing and stay engaged.
Prerequisites and Enrolment Information
Prerequisites:
Designed for Year 9–10 students with a strong interest in technology, coding, AI, or building digital projects
No prior experience is required, but students should be ready for a more structured, higher-challenge program
Students are expected to demonstrate safe, respectful behaviour and follow instructions so the learning environment remains positive for everyone
If a student is unable to participate safely or respectfully, we may pause their participation until they are ready to rejoin appropriately
What’s included?
Project-based learning (multi-week builds)
Experienced trainers and mentors
Industry-relevant tools and future-ready skills
Personalised guidance and progression pathway
Recommended Commitment:
NextGen Tech Leaders is built as a progression pathway. For best results, we recommend a minimum one-year enrolment, allowing students to strengthen foundations, complete larger projects, and develop confidence through repeated build–test–improve cycles.
- Students may join at the start of any term. Each term features unique projects and outcomes, while still following a consistent pathway.
- If your child has additional learning needs, please contact Innovate Academy before enrolling. We’ll discuss the best supports so your child can participate confidently and successfully.
NDIS Invoicing:
- We can provide invoices and receipts for families claiming sessions through NDIS (self-managed or plan-managed).
After enrolling, email us your NDIS plan type, and we’ll ensure the invoice includes the correct details to support claiming. Our aim is to keep the process clear and simple, so families can focus on what matters most—your child’s progress and growth.
Robot IQ Academy 2026 Training Schedule
*Term 1 – Monday 2 February 2026 to Monday 30 March 2026
*Excluding Monday 9 March due to Labour Day Public Holiday
*Term 2 – Monday 20 April 2026 to Monday 15 June 2026
*Excluding Monday 8 June due to King’s Birthday Public Holiday
Term 3 – Monday 13 July 2026 to Monday 31 August 2026
Term 4 – Monday 5 October 2026 to Monday 23 November 2026
Program Key Terms for Enrollments & Renewals
- Bookings/Renewals for every term can be done on this page.
- Fees can be paid anytime during the current term for the next term before the due date.
- Fees must be paid in full before a student can enter the program every term.
- Student must not attend class if unwell and contact the academy for a make up session.
- Public holidays are made up with either an extra lesson or session hours added on which will be decided by Innovate Academy.
- No parent / guardian is permitted to stay in the classroom as the program promotes independent learning.
- Refer to notices from Innovate Academy for make up lessons and session changes during the term, if applicable.
- Terms and Conditions apply.
What's included?
- Hands-on Learning
- Experienced Trainers
- Latest Technology
- Personalised Training
Class Details
- Forest Hill College, 178 – 180 Mahoneys Road , Burwood East, VIC (3.8 km or 7 mins from The Glen Shopping Centre)
- Mondays, 7:00pm to 8:30pm
- Term 1 Dates: 2 February to 30 March (8 Week Program)
- 890 per term
-
Class Ratio of 8:1
(Student : Teacher) - Age Range: Year 9 to Year 10
- Skill Check: $180 (1 Session) (available in Week 1 and Week 8)