There are many opportunities presented to students to apply for scholarships or programs related to the Visual Arts during their time at St Catherine’s. For example the NGV National Summer Art Scholarship, The Centenarian Project, the Seasons of Excellence or ACCA ACCADEMY. Applications for these programs requires the students to independently complete strict criteria, present or create new artworks for consideration.

It is with great pleasure that I learnt that XaSha Chua-Huggins has been accepted into the ACCA (Australian Centre for Contemporary Art) ACCADEMY program. To be accepted, firstly required XaSha to present a CV, along with responses to a number of questions. Following this, XaSha then attended an interview with the education manager for ACCA, Eliza Devlin. XaSha found this a daunting process, having never been to an interview other than at School.

ACCADEMY is a new program for students wanting to tackle challenging tasks, develop new critical and creative thinking skills and engage with arts industry professionals-including artists, curators, educators and writers. This program is for motivated and committed young people wanting to take their arts learning further, contribute to special projects and gain understanding of the arts industry.

XaSha has committed to this year long program on Wednesday evenings each month. She will have the opportunity to work with only a group of 10 other students on creative projects, including art making, writing and project planning, and exploring the role of art in contemporary society. Working with a team of professionals, the group will have a platform to contribute their voice to the organisation. The results of these projects will be launched in a publication later in the year.

This opportunity will provide XaSha with important knowledge and skills that have direct links to her Studio Arts outcomes and examination preparation. Also, a better understanding of the art industry associated with future tertiary studies and employability skills.

Making the effort can be very rewarding for the students. Having their artworks displayed in highly regarded public institutions, expanding their relationships with professionals and making contacts that can be very beneficial for their future education and employment.