Celebrating Future-Focused Thinking: Middle College Students Success at 2025 National finals and Qualify for International Competition

Pacific Lutheran College students once again demonstrated their capacity for deep thinking, collaboration and creative problem solving, qualifying for the Future Problem Solving (FPS) National Finals, which were held at Knox Grammar School, Sydney in October. Pacific Lutheran College has proudly represented the Sunshine Coast at the FPS National Competition for the past four years, cementing its reputation as a school of innovative and future-focused thinker and learners.

To qualify, students worked individually or in teams of four to tackle the complex topic of “The Future of the Agricultural Industry.” Their high-quality booklets earned them places among the top problem solvers in Australia, an achievement reflecting both academic rigour and year-long dedication.

Many participants have been active members of the FPS program since Term 1, with several of our Senior students involved since they first joined the program in Year 6. Throughout their journey, they have developed advanced critical thinking, research, and strategic collaboration skills that extend well beyond the classroom. This year, Pacific was proudly represented by teams from Years 6, 8, 10, and 11, showcasing the remarkable depth of talent, curiosity, and commitment within the College community.

“Future Problem Solving challenges students to think creatively and critically about global issues that will shape their lifetime,” said Mrs Jo Belchamber, Head of Learning Middle College. “It’s incredibly rewarding to see their hard work recognised at a national level. These students have shown persistence, teamwork and intellectual curiosity that embody the very best of Pacific learning.”

At the National Finals, students explored the emerging field of nanotechnology - the science of manipulating materials at the atomic and molecular scale. This rapidly evolving field spans medicine, electronics, energy and environmental applications, prompting students to consider how innovation might reshape our future societies.

Pacific students performed very well. Champion titles were awarded to Evie Schenck (Year 8) in the Middle Scenario Performance Division and Isla Lendrum (Year 11) in the Senior Global Issues Problem Solving Division, with both students earning a place at the International Finals, which will be held in the United States of America next year. The Year 7 Project Paws team achieved 3rd place in Community Problem Solving and also earnt an invitation to the International Finals.The Year 8 team achieved their best-ever team score. The Year 6 team made history as the first Pacific team to represent Queensland at Nationals in the Junior Division. In individual achievements, Thomas Mulo (Year 8) secured 2nd place in the Mixed Schools Middle Global Issues Problem Solving Division. 

Beyond competition results, the journey to Sydney offered students invaluable opportunities for growth. “Travelling to the National Finals and engaging with peers from across Australia expands our students’ worldview and builds confidence in real-world contexts,” Mrs Belchamber said. “They come away inspired, knowing their ideas have the power to make a difference.”

“The perseverance shown by these students is just as important as the medals and trophies,” Mrs Belchamber added. “They’ve embraced challenges, learned from each experience and continued to strive for excellence, all hallmarks of future-focused learners.”

As Pacific Lutheran College celebrates these remarkable accomplishments, the College community extends heartfelt congratulations to all students and mentors involved. Their achievements embody the heart of a Pacific education: future-focused, inquiry-driven and grounded in a culture of thinking to co-create better futures.