Following the recent introduction of the Global Leadership Entry Program (GLEP), 22 of our top school partners were on campus last week to learn more about the new program, that allows year 12 students early entry into Macquarie before they finish high school.

Vice-Chancellor Professor S Bruce Dowton introduced the new program by describing our different approach to assessing future students’ abilities, one which does not singularly judge eligibility based on ATAR.

“Each student is more than their academic results,” he said. “We are interested in developing students who have already demonstrated an aptitude and desire for leadership and community engagement that aligns with our values.”

Professor Dowton added that our broader understanding of the whole student is actually a better determinant of quality than the relatively blunt ATAR tool.

Michaela James, Associate Director, Marketing Planning and Strategy said the event was a unique opportunity to highlight how the Global Leadership Program equips Macquarie graduates with the skills that employees look for to augment a degree award.

“These are skills like cross-cultural and inter-personal communication, team building, conflict resolution, and community engagement,” said Michaela.

Michaela said career advisors were very excited by the program and the opportunities it presents for their students.

“Since the event we’ve received many notes of thanks from those who came, with stories of students excited by the prospect of joining the program,” she said.  “One advisor even said to expect several applications the next day.”

Find out more about the program and read recent media coverage of the initiative.