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The ����vlog����al Pathways Program (EPP) held its final 2, and very successful regional roundtables in Inverell and Narrabri on 17 and 18 June. Both of these events brought together teams delivering the EPP in our Inverell, Moree and Lightning Ridge school groups and engaged members of the school leadership, students and their parents.

The primary goal of these sessions was to spark insightful conversations and a put a lens on listening for opportunities for improvement as we look to lift vocational education and training (VET) opportunities for RRR students in our regional, rural and remote schools.

Leader of the ����vlog����al Pathways Program Shannon Mudiman said the events delivered potent, usable feedback. "It was wonderful to hear first-hand about the way the EPP is delivering outcomes for students across these school groups. I have been impressed by the innovative thinking and program delivery adaptations on the ground in these contexts that create truly life-changing opportunities for our students.”

Highlights from Inverell

Hosted at Inverell High School, on the traditional land of the Kamilaroi people, the day began with a powerful Acknowledgement of Country. Kiara Rose and the Inverell High School STARS and Clontarf dancers delivered a wonderful performance, with Cooper Blair providing the didgeridoo accompaniment.

Attendees were gifted a wellbeing pouch, filled with thoughtful and encouraging items, which provided a perfect start to the day.

One highlight of the event was a session coordinated by Mel Daskey, our EPP SBAT Engagement Officer. We heard from two young women, Olivia and Isabel, who shared their experiences pursuing careers in health thanks to their VET studies.

EPP Career Learning Co-ordinator Sandy Edgar also facilitated one of 3 thought-provoking sessions designed to answer the question, “What might we consider as strategies to strengthen our partnerships with stakeholders to increase student access to opportunities, and training needed to meet future industry/skill demand”.

The day included insightful discussions facilitated by Shaun Taylor, Head Teacher Careers for the Inverell Group of schools. We also received excellent input from one of the most experienced people in the room, Robyn Glasson, career adviser from Bingara Central School.

We want to thank the wider team who help the EPP deliver great outcomes for students, including (but not limited to); Karly Brogan, RIEP Officer, Emma McAuley, VET Support Officer and Amy Simpson, TAFE NSW Student Support Officer.

We were pleased to announce our newest EPP Principal Champion, Wayne Fowke, Principal at Inverell High School and our host for the day.

Finally, congratulations to Mel Daskey for her work in collaboration with the Media Unit to create a new weekly segment on STA FM 91.9 Community Radio in Inverell where the announcer interviews a local student undertaking an SBAT! Such a great opportunity for students to prepare and gain confidence, and for the awareness of the SBAT program in general! Thanks also to Macintyre High School Careers Adviser, Deb Snait, for all her hard work to make this happen.

Highlights from Narrabri

On Wednesday, 18 June 2025, Narrabri High School hosted a great event to discuss how we can better support students in regional, rural, and remote areas as they explore their future careers. Principal Emily McInerney welcomed everyone to the school’s "The Living Room" for a day of collaboration.

The day began with a thoughtful Acknowledgement of Country by Narrabri High students Menzie Baker-Harvey and Zeiken Green-Murray. Attendees included local principals, career advisers, and partners from organisations like TAFE NSW. We were also joined by Uncle Carl, Senior Leader Community Engagement Officer from Boggabilla Central School, who shared his valuable insights.

The purpose of the day was to share ideas and identify opportunities to improve EPP service delivery, particularly for students in the Moree and Lightning Ridge school groups. Shannon Mudiman explained that we're celebrating five years of the program, which has grown to support 183 schools across NSW. The day featured valuable discussions on how to strengthen partnerships and develop local initiatives to get students ready for the workforce.

A notable segment of the day was the discussion surrounding the RoSA@work – Future Pathways Program. This personalised model is specifically designed to re-engage students who may have become disengaged from their educational journey. Rachael Shearer, Head Teacher Careers, who has been instrumental in the EPP's expansion in the Moree and Lightning Ridge areas, and Laura Peisley, shared valuable insights into this impactful program, highlighting its role in keeping young people connected to their future prospects.

As a longstanding EPP Principal Champion, Richard Finter shared his reflections on that role. In essence, Richard indicated the role requires a combination of advocacy, leadership, and collaboration to promote EPP programs, influence their direction, and drive innovation for students within the school and beyond.

The event demonstrated a powerful commitment to ensuring all students have equitable access to great post-school pathways.