It is always an incredible privilege to take students to the International Future Problem Solving world Finals. This year we broke up a long trip (about 21 hours of flying) in Chicago. We enjoyed this sparkling city by going on an architecture cruise up the Chicago River, heading up Willis Tower to the Sky Deck and exploring Lincoln Park Zoo.

A road trip down to Indiana University had us in competition mode. Our team of Huon, Sarah, Dakota and Hannah worked hard during their lockdown to respond to a Future Scene on the topic of Forestry. Challenges were identified, an underlying problem determined, solutions brainstormed, criteria written and an Action Plan was formulated based on the best solution.

This Action Plan was then dramatised and performed. Emily, the team reserve, who had competed in a parallel multi affiliate program, joined the team for the presentation. Our team performed in their heat, progressed to the finals and, of over 80 top teams from around the world, took second place in the Middle Division!

After the four days of competition, we flew to LA where we enjoyed the weather and had some amazing experiences – Hollywood, Beverly Hills, Santa Monica Pier, Huntington Beach, Marina del Rey, Venice Beach, downtown LA, and of course, Disneyland!

I am incredibly proud of this team of students who have worked hard over many years to win the National Championship in 2025 and earn their way onto the Australian team at the International Finals in 2026.

It will be something they will all remember and treasure for many years to come.

I enjoyed having the opportunity to engage with like-minded peers from across the world and share our culture and ideas. I also enjoyed exploring California as the scenery, atmosphere and community were vibrant and beautiful. I would also like to thank all the adults who came on the trip, especially Mrs Brown, as they kept us organised and made sure we had the most enjoyable experience. – Hannah

Having the opportunity to go to the US for a competition I am passionate about was such an amazing privilege. Meeting people from all over the world was one of my favourite parts of the experience, and I hope that it can lead to strong connections and friendships in the future. – Huon

I loved having the privilege to meet so many people from around the world who brought unique perspectives. I especially enjoyed the memento exchange, which was an incredible opportunity for me to engage with different cultures and talk to so many peers. The attractions were amazing in California, especially the trip to Disneyland. A special thanks to Mrs Brown and the parents for keeping us organised and on track. I am so thankful I was blessed with this experience! – Sarah

I am so grateful I had the opportunity to compete at the FPS international competition in America. It was so much fun getting to meet other kids from around the world and hear about what their culture and homes are like. I enjoyed getting to explore different parts of America, such as Indiana, Chicago and Los Angeles. A special thanks to Mrs Brown for helping coach us and looking after us, as well as planning this whole trip. – Dakota

I feel so appreciative to have been given this opportunity to compete in the FPS competition with my friends in America. I enjoyed every part of the trip but the best moments were when we got to meet and interact with other students from all over the world. I give my thanks to Mrs Brown for looking after me during this excursion, it was really fun! – Emily

Prior to the commencement of the World Finals, Mrs Simone Brown was named as the recipient of the Keith Frampton Memorial Award!

This award recognises coaches who go above and beyond to create meaningful, challenging opportunities for their students, and is a testament to Mrs Brown's dedication to providing our students with the fantastic opportunities to participate in the Future Problem Solving programs.

Congratulations, Mrs Brown!