The end of the school year marks a significant milestone for many, but at Creating Chances, it is a time to celebrate the remarkable achievements of our newest graduates from the School-Based Traineeship (SBAT) program. We are incredibly proud to congratulate Jacob, Callum, Chelsea, Temia, Lilly, Josephine, Kaylee, Jaylin, Harrison, Jye, and Evey on successfully finishing their traineeships in 2025.
Hosted by our partners Gilbert + Tobin, we celebrated the achievements of our Trainees over a delightful evening MC’d by SBAT Coordinator Margie Andreasson, with speeches from the graduating cohort sharing their powerful journeys over their two year traineeship.
The SBAT program represents the final, vital step in the Creating Chances Youth Development Pathway. The Pathway is designed to build confident, capable, and future-ready young people by exploring personal growth, community building, and social change through sport. For these students, the journey often began in earlier years through modules like Champions, Coaches, or Gamechanger, where they first developed their social and emotional intelligence.
The SBAT specifically bridges the gap between school and the professional world. During Years 11 and 12, these students were employed for one day of paid work per week, where they gained real-time working skills in coaching and facilitation. Alongside their practical work, they completed a Certificate III in Sports Coaching or Sport and Recreation, building an impressive employment portfolio that prepares them for life beyond High School.
The Class of 2025 has demonstrated immense resilience and commitment. Throughout their two-year journey, they have been mentored and supported by a dedicated team, with special thanks to Margie, the SBAT Coordinator, for her unwavering dedication to ensuring every trainee had access to incredible opportunities.
The success of the 2025 class highlights the continued growth of the program across New South Wales. While starting as a pilot, the initiative now flourishes in diverse regions including Armidale, Narromine, Coonamble, and Western Sydney.
"I've learnt that new experiences lead to new opportunities."
"I've learnt to be confident with working with kids around my age."
To our 2025 graduates: your success is a testament to your hard work. We cannot wait to see you take your skills into the world and continue making a lasting impact on society. Congratulations!
For more information about School Based Traineeship program click here.
