Support & Opportunity Abound in Aboriginal Education

The Clontarf Foundation is an Australian non-profit organization that focuses on improving the education and life outcomes of young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander boys. Established in 2000, the foundation aims to create a positive impact by supporting Indigenous students through a school-based program that fosters confidence, leadership, and academic success. The foundation emphasizes the importance of education, physical health, and personal development, while also celebrating Indigenous culture and traditions. By offering mentorship, leadership opportunities, and a network of support, the Clontarf Foundation helps young people from disadvantaged backgrounds reach their potential, creating pathways to future employment and leadership roles in their communities.

The Esperance Clontarf Year 12 Leadership Camp to Busselton in week 3 was an incredible opportunity for the students to develop essential leadership skills while fostering stronger bonds with all the year 12 boys from the Central South Region (38 year 12 students). Set against the backdrop of Busselton’s beautiful coast, the camp offered a range of activities designed to challenge participants both mentally and physically. Through team-building exercises, reflective discussions, and goal-setting workshops, the Year 12 students gained valuable insights into what it takes to lead with integrity and resilience. The experience not only focused on leadership skills but also was a great opportunity for the young men to set some goals for the year.  By the end of the camp, the students left with a deeper sense of purpose and confidence, ready to take on the final year of secondary schooling as they transition into the next phase of their lives.

The STARS foundation is a mentoring program that provides holistic support to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander girls and young woman to attend and remain engaged at school, complete Year 12 and move into work or further studies.  Mentors support these young ladies to identify their goals and reach their full potential.  The program is based on strong, trusting relationships and operates on a full-time basis within partner schools from a culturally safe and nurturing room.  At ESHS, about 60 students access this facility before school during lunch times and whenever the need arises during the day.

The Stars Foundation focuses on four pillars:  Education, Healthy Lifestyles, Wellbeing and Community, Culture and Leadership.  Participants have a lesson scheduled on their timetables and work alongside their mentors either on structured lessons, excursions, incursions or in collaboration with external services. The full-time mentors also plan for and provide opportunities and activities that support the students to develop self-esteem, confidence and life skills they need to successfully participate in all aspects of school life and transition into a positive and independent future.  We are excited to continue working with these young woman and their families, supporting them to achieve the best possible outcomes in their high school career.