Issue 5 2025 - Student Services

Student Services

Brad Woodruff

Year 12 Students Create Benches for Alternative Learning and Social Space

As part of an exciting project this term, Year 12 students Jared Ballard and Jedd Nazzari, working alongside College Chaplain - Chris Urschitz and Training Officer – Phil Toon, have designed and built a series of timber benches for the school community.

The project was a wonderful opportunity for Jared and Jed to contribute something lasting to the College, while also developing practical metal work skills. Guided by Chris, who brought his woodworking expertise to the project, the students produced high-quality pieces that will be a feature for many years to come.

The new benches are now in place at The Hive (Student Services) and will also form part of an alternative classroom and social space for students. This initiative not only provides practical seating but also creates welcoming areas where students can connect, learn, and feel supported.

We congratulate Jared and Jed on their effort and creativity, and thank Chris Urschitz for coordinating such a meaningful project that enriches both our learning environment and our community spaces.

Transition Out Program Launches for Year 12 Students

This term marks the beginning of our Transition Out program for Year 12 students — a series of talks designed to provide guidance and practical insights as students prepare for life beyond school.

Our first guest speaker was Brian Thompson, who shared his inspiring career journey with the cohort. Brian began as a cabinet making apprentice, before establishing himself as a successful business owner. He later moved into education, spending 23 years as a TAFE lecturer, where he supported and mentored young tradespeople. More recently, Brian transitioned into a career in the offshore FIFO industry, bringing yet another perspective on the variety of pathways available after school.

Brian’s story highlighted the value of adaptability, lifelong learning, and resilience in navigating career changes. His honesty and insight were greatly appreciated by all of our students, who left with a clearer sense of the opportunities and challenges that can arise as they step into independence.

Other guest presenters included Monique De Marco and Heather O’Donnell from Ray White Real Estate, who provided valuable information about the rental market. They spoke about how to apply for rental properties, the importance of taking applications seriously in a competitive market, and outlined both the rights of renters and the common traps and pitfalls to be aware of. Their knowledge, gathered from many years of professional experience, gave students practical advice and confidence if they wish enter the rental market.

The Transition Out program will continue across the term, with a range of presenters sharing experiences in areas such as employment, finance, health, and wellbeing. We look forward to the conversations ahead as our Year 12s prepare for the exciting road beyond school.

Supporting Year 12 Students Beyond School

For many Year 12 students, the transition out of school comes with mixed emotions. Residential students from rural communities, who cover a wide geographical area, are in a unique situation. Disconnections from friendship groups are often exaggerated, as it is much harder to see each other compared to metropolitan or non-boarding students. For some, this sense of loss is greater.

The loss of routine, predictability, and structure can weigh heavily on some students, while others may really enjoy the additional freedom. When we talk with students at this stage of their schooling, some report they are simply focused on “getting to the end” - graduation - which means completing the necessary tasks, competencies, and projects, without giving much consideration to what their plans might be beyond leaving school.

We recognise that leaving school also means moving away from many of the support networks that students have relied on during their time here. To ensure a smooth transition, we are working alongside families to link students with appropriate professional agencies, such as Headspace, local medical services, counselling supports, and financial or tenancy advisory services. This ensures that students continue to feel supported as they step into new environments and responsibilities.

This proactive approach helps our students build confidence in seeking support beyond school, ensuring they have the right people and services in place as they begin the next stage of their journey. For more information and resources to support young people leaving school, visit: 

https://headspace.org.au/explore-topics/for-young-people/leaving-secondary-school/

Brad Woodruff
Program Coordinator - Student Services
WACOA – Denmark