A Call to Adventure

We are Andrew and Shannon Haws—and together with our three young adventurers, Isla, Ben, and Emersyn—we are launching Acton Academy Victoria, a place where education becomes a transformational journey, not just for children, but for families, communities, and generations to come.

Our story begins with a question—one that quietly followed us even before we became parents: How do we raise children who are curious, courageous, and truly prepared for life? For years, we wrestled with that question. We explored, discussed, dreamed. But no clear answer emerged.

Then came 2023.

As our oldest approached school age, the question became urgent. We poured ourselves into exploring every path—public school, private school, homeschool. We read, we researched, we asked hard questions. And while each option had its merits, none felt like the right fit for the vision we held for our children’s growth. Something was missing—something deeper, more purposeful. We were looking for a spark, and we hadn’t found it yet.​

And then came the call to adventure.

One ordinary summer evening, we stumbled upon a podcast that mentioned Acton Academy. What we heard lit a fire in our souls. Here was a school unlike any we had encountered: learner-driven, purpose-centered, grounded in timeless values yet built for the future. It spoke of children as heroes—each on their own unique journey, capable of far more than we imagined. It was a vision of education that honored the child, challenged the status quo, and sparked something deep within us.​

That moment changed everything.

We couldn't unsee it. We had found the path we didn’t even know we were looking for. And like any true Hero’s Journey, we knew the road ahead would require courage, sacrifice, and growth. But we also knew it was our path. And that we were no longer just searching for the right school—we were called to build it.​

Acton Academy is more than a school. It is part of a global learning revolution that is redefining what education can and should be. A place where learners take ownership of their growth, where Socratic discussions replace lectures, where meaningful work takes center stage, and where children are trusted to rise.​

Launching Acton Academy Victoria is the culmination of our Hero’s Journey—but it’s also just the beginning. Because now, we’re inviting you to begin your journey. Whether you're a parent seeking something radically different, a learner ready to discover your gifts, or someone who believes in a better way—there is a place for you in this story.

This is a revolution. This is a calling.

Welcome to Acton Academy Victoria. Let the journey begin.