A self-determined learning environment supporting change-makers

Otago Polytechnic’s Bachelor of Leadership for Change is an innovative leadership learning qualification that supports learners in their confidence and capabilities to make positive change in their communities and workplaces. This paper identifies learning from developmental evaluation of the first two years of delivery, sharing voices from a diverse community of learners and the responses of the staff team as they apply the heutagogy principles underpinning the programme. The programme’s successes and challenges highlight the transformative potential for culturally responsive, self-determined learning environments to nurture professional practitioners capable of navigating complex, disruptive times and situations.