17 Feb 2019
The Clontarf Foundation has arrived in the Hunter Region and Irrawang High School is thrilled to have the program at our school.
The Foundation exists to improve the education, discipline, life skills, self-esteem and employment prospects of young Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander men and by doing so equips them to participate meaningfully in society.
Heading the program at our school is Director John Wade assisted by Operations Officer Luke Walsh.
“We are honoured to be ...part of the Irrawang High School community and eager to get the program established with the boys. I encourage the parents/carers and families to contact me at school on 4987 4687 to find out more about the program” said John.
Irrawang High Deputy Principal Mr Trent Colley commented “We are extremely excited to have the Clontarf Program here at Irrawang HS. The outcomes for Aboriginal students across Australia speak for themselves as it enhances educational experiences at school, and most importantly equips them with skills beyond school. We see the Clontarf Program led by John and Luke working in partnership with our Ngarralbaa Aboriginal Education Team and the Youyong AECG, to build sustainable relationships with our community to provide our students a platform to reach their maximum potential”.
There are many aspects to the program, which is essentially designed to encourage young ATSI men to complete their schooling to Year 12. Students will attend morning training twice weekly, participating in a wide variety of sports. There will also be attendance based excursions and employment visits.
Pictured from left rear: Clontarf Operations Officer Mr Luke Walsh, IHS Deputy Principal Mr Trent Colley, Clontarf Director Mr John Wade, IHS Aboriginal School Learning Support Officer Mr Dylan Manton
Pictured from left front: IHS Aboriginal Education Worker Ms Sheridan Noble, Principal Mr Paul Baxter and IHS Deputy Principal Mrs Liana Gill