Senior Clontarf academy members from across the Newcastle and Hunter region came together in March for a combined Employment Forum and Leadership Camp, delivering a practical and engaging focus on life beyond school.
Held at NEX in Newcastle, the Employment Forum brought together over 20 partner organisations and local employers, providing academy members with direct access to a broad range of career pathways.
Across the day, around 80 academy members engaged with industry representatives, asking questions and gaining insight into opportunities across trades, business and community services.
The forum also included a leadership session, where Year 12 participants reflected on the final stages of their schooling, what is required in the months ahead and who they can rely on for support. The session concluded with a shared commitment from the group as they prepare for their next steps.
The camp component extended these themes, combining structured activities with opportunities to build confidence, teamwork and leadership. Activities included the Doylson Raw Challenge, go-karting, a university visit and an ‘Amazing Race’ style challenge across Newcastle, where teams worked together to solve problems, complete tasks and engage with partner organisations in a different setting.
These experiences were supported by more informal moments across the camp, from shared meals to group activities, helping strengthen relationships and reinforce the expectations of the workplace environment.
Across the three days, academy members developed a clearer understanding of career pathways, workplace expectations and the steps required to transition successfully into employment. Just as importantly, they demonstrated leadership, supported one another and represented their academies strongly throughout.
Congratulations to the young men involved!
