Entrepreneurial Education in K-12: A Strategic Framework for Western Australia
A Joint Perspective from The Beyond Boundaries Institute and the Young Entrepreneurs Academy of Western Australia
Key Highlights
The Beyond Boundaries Institute's strategic vision recognizes that the challenges facing young people today transcend traditional educational boundaries. Climate change, technological disruption, economic uncertainty and social transformation require citizens who can navigate complexity, create solutions, and collaborate across diverse contexts.
Entrepreneurial education provides a framework for developing these capabilities, not merely to create business owners, but to cultivate what we term "entrepreneurial citizens" – individuals who approach challenges with creativity, persistence and a solutions-oriented mindset, regardless of their chosen career path.
Urgency for Entrepreneurial Education in WA
Western Australia is at a pivotal moment in reshaping its education system to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving economy. As traditional industries shift, there's a growing need to equip students with entrepreneurial skills that foster adaptability and innovation.
A Unified Framework from BBI and YEA WA
The white paper introduces a strategic framework co-developed by The Beyond Boundaries Institute and the Young Entrepreneurs Academy of WA. This collaboration emphasises educator empowerment, professional pathways and systemic transformation to prepare students for unpredictable futures.
Alignment with State Strategic Priorities
Entrepreneurial education fosters essential future-ready skills such as creative problem-solving, collaboration and systems thinking. These competencies directly support the goals outlined in Western Australia's "Pathways to Post-School Success" review, reinforcing the relevance and timeliness of this initiative.
Beyond Boundaries Toward the Future
This white paper presents a vision for entrepreneurial education that transcends traditional boundaries between sectors, subjects and institutions. Through the combined expertise of the Young Entrepreneurs Academy of Western Australia and The Beyond Boundaries Institute, we offer a framework that is both aspirational and practical, evidence-based and innovative.
