Diverse Thinkers Head Start Program

Start the school year ready, not overwhelmed.

The Diverse Thinkers Head Start Program is a short, structured online program that gives secondary English students a strong foundation before the school year begins. Over three weeks, students attend two live sessions per week, six sessions in total, each building on the last.

Program schedule

Week 1 (11–17 Jan): Read, understand and get organised
Close reading and comprehension skills, plus executive function strategies for planning, starting tasks and staying on track.

Week 2 (18–24 Jan): Text-response essay writing
A clear, step-by-step structure for analytical paragraphs and essays, from unpacking the prompt to using evidence well.

Week 3 (25–29 Jan): Persuasive and creative writing
Analysing how writers persuade, creating persuasive pieces, developing confident creative writing, and finishing with study skills to carry into Term 1.

Who it’s for

• Students who want to strengthen their essay writing before Term 1

• Students who find English overwhelming or hard to start

• Neurodivergent learners who benefit from structured, explicit teaching

• Students moving into a new year level or making the jump to VCE

No diagnosis required. All students who would benefit from a clear, structured approach are welcome.

Your tutor
Stephanie Hume is a Melbourne-based inclusive education specialist with 10 years’ experience supporting secondary English students. She holds a Master of Teaching (Secondary) and a Master of Communication, and brings a warm, structured and practical approach to every session.

Investment (per student, full 6-session program)
Junior English, Years 7–8: $330
Middle English, Years 9–10: $360
VCE English, Years 11–12: $430

Groups are capped at 6 students and grouped by year level. Early registrations receive priority placement.

Register your interest
Expressions of interest are open now at diversethinkers.com.au/headstart. Stephanie will be in touch with confirmed session times and everything you need to get started.