The principal of Mill Park Secondary College credits a focus on ambitious goals as a driving force behind improved student performance. Rather than leading to increased stress, more examinations and assessments have reportedly “re-energised” students at the Bundoora, Victoria school. The approach involved cultivating a sense of aspiration within the student body. This strategy proved successful in lifting overall academic achievement at Mill Park Secondary College. The principal believes that providing students with clear expectations and opportunities to demonstrate their learning spurred positive results. The college’s experience suggests that, contrary to common concerns, increased academic rigor can be beneficial for student engagement and outcomes.