Two students from Cecil Andrews College said a school program helped keep them coming back to class and thinking about life after graduation.
Dominic Hedlam and Mitchell Burton are among the Year 12 students recognised during the Clontarf Foundation’s recent Leadership Morning Tea in Bentley, an event marking the end of their school journey and the next step into work or training.
Both boys joined the Cecil Andrews Academy in Year 7 and noted the program became part of their daily school life.
Dominic Hedlam mentioned it was the sense of connection that stood out.
“I love Clontarf for the sense of community and a great place to hang out with friends,” he said.
Dominic said staying motivated during school was not always easy.
“At times through school I have lacked motivation, but Clontarf have been there to steer me back to school,” he said.
After graduating, he plans to begin a drilling traineeship and hopes to move into offshore drilling once he gains more experience.
When asked about his advice for younger children, he said, “come to school every day, try your best and give everything a go.”
Mitchell Burton, another student, said the program encouraged him to think about the example he sets for others.
“Becoming a better role model for the younger blokes and becoming a better person for the future,” he said.
“I am very appreciative for everything Clontarf has done for me and every other boy who is a part of the Clontarf Foundation program.”
Mitchell hopes to start an apprenticeship after finishing school and is considering work as a diesel mechanic or plumber.
He said one of his challenges during school was attendance and keeping his grades up.
“Not coming to school enough and not getting the best grades,” he said.
His message to younger academy members is to “come to school try your best and be a good person to everyone.”
Clontarf Foundation founder and chief executive Gerard Neesham said more than 220 academy members are expected to complete Year 12 across Western Australia this year.
That includes six students from Belmont Academy and ten from Seville Grove Academy.
Mr Neesham said finishing Year 12 can open the door to different pathways, including apprenticeships, further training or employment.
“Some of the biggest challenges can be maintaining consistent attendance and staying engaged with school over the long term, particularly when there are other pressures or responsibilities outside the classroom,” he said.
“Having positive support around them and clear goals for what comes after school makes a big difference.”
The Clontarf Foundation began in Perth in 2000 with one academy and has since expanded across Western Australia and the rest of the country.
The Perth-based not-for-profit supports young Indigenous men to attend school, complete Year 12 and move into employment or further training.
Today the organisation operates 35 academies across WA supporting more than 2,500 young men. Nationwide, 161 academies support more than 12,500 students.
