Centre for Higher Education Studies (CHES) 
Architect: Fieldwork + Brand Architects

The Centre for Higher Education Studies (CHES) is a unique initiative by the Victorian Government, and the only facility of its type in Australia. CHES is a statewide institution that provides Enrichment and Extension opportunities for Gifted students in their senior years of Secondary school. Students have the opportunity to undertake advanced research investigations, or to enrol in first year tertiary units at a number of partner institutions. Courses are offered both on site and as hybrid online / on site options, with the Centre pioneering a “Hy-flex” form of advanced online teaching technology. The outstanding multi award-winning four-story building is located on a constrained site in South Yarra, adjacent to Melbourne High School.

This site visit will include tour of the building to be followed by a 90min interactive workshop. The workshop will deal in part with the architectural response including the development of the unique educational brief, and the sustainability initiatives that have been incorporated in the unique building, as well as the Hy-Flex educational model and the teaching practices and partnerships that are being developed. It is also planned to have students participating to provide their reflections on the building and the opportunities afforded to them by the courses on offer.

At the conclusion, participants will have the option of a stroll along the Yarra back to the conference venue (about 35min and weather dependent) or a short tram trip back.