Written By Warwick Jones, Orara Academy Director
Iād like to share a short success story about one of our young men ā Dominic Robertson ā who graduated from Year 12 this year through the power of persistence, support and belief.
When I first met this young man at the start of 2021, he was in Year 8. After speaking with his coordinators and teachers, it became clear he was facing a tough road. He was dealing with ongoing behavioural challenges, frequent suspensions and very low attendance. The school staff shared honest concerns ā that if things continued the same way, he would likely follow a pattern seen in his family, where no one had ever finished high school.
Throughout Year 8, 9 and 10, this young man had at least one suspension every term. School wasnāt easy for him, and many people expected he wouldnāt make it to senior school at all.
But things changed.
As he moved into the later years of high school, he began to mature. With consistent mentoring, support, high expectations and a safe space at the academy, he slowly started to shift his mindset. By Year 11 and 12, he turned things around completely ā achieving attendance in the 90% range and completing both years with no suspensions.
This year, Dom proudly walked across the stage as the first member of his family to ever graduate from high school.
His story highlights how structure, guidance and a reliable place at school can help young men realise their potential and stay focused on their goals.
Weāre incredibly proud of him, and we know heās only just getting started.
Photo 1: Dominic pictured on the left.
Photo 2: Dominic pictured third from the left.
