Monterey Secondary College is in Frankston North, Melbourne, Victoria. Under the leadership of principal Peter Langham the school has focused on a mindset shift regarding the behavioural issues of their students. To continue this trajectory of positive change, the Monterey Secondary College’s leadership team were seeking further support for students who thrive off strength based experiential learning approaches.
Gilbert and Tobin were in need of a staff enrichment program which allowed employees to volunteer time to engage young people with practical solutions to the issues they face whilst offering a view into what possibilities their future holds. It was considered a perfect fit for Monterey Secondary College, whose students would greatly benefit from having positive role models from the community pass on advice, skills and strategies that led them to their success.
Partnering with Gilbert and Tobin, Creating Chances implemented our World Traditional Games Gala Day at Monterey Secondary College. This year was the fourth year that Head Facilitator Paul delivered a 3 day intensive program to students in Years 10-12, with the assistance of Gilbert and Tobin volunteers.
Across the 3 days students learnt the foundations of coaching and event planning, which were then showcased at the WTG Gala day where students from MSC coached over 130 Primary school students from Aldercourt, Belvedere, Kanahook, Seaford Park, and Mahogany Rise.
The program included a rotation of traditional games such as Kabaddi, Thari, La Balle Aux Prisonniers, Tzami, Keentan, Kubb, Lapé, Kilikiti.
This event, hosted by Creating Chances in partnership with Monterey Secondary College and our amazing program sponsor Gilbert + Tobin, marked the fourth World Traditional Games.
Monterey Secondary College hospitality students went above and beyond, preparing a variety of delicious food options for morning tea and lunch, including sandwiches, dessert slices, choc chip cookies, and a classic sausage sizzle.
The day was rounded off with an awards presentation highlighting the hard work and growth the student coaches had undergone as they also presented 5 primary school students with an “MVP award for their positive behaviour, teamwork skills, and school spirit”.
“It was amazing to witness all the kids and their teamwork , their high energy, and it has been a beautifully organised event.This World Traditional Games program gets the whole community involved and it’s great to connect in this way through this event. This program (WTG) also helps people to lead and spread kindness to everyone which is really inspiring.” – Jo, Gilbert + Tobin volunteer
Not only did the Gala Day have long lasting positive effects on the student coaches outlook and confidence, but also left a mark on the volunteers from Gilbert + Tobin.
Gilbert and Tobin volunteer, Jo, was left moved by the energy of the day, which was created by the hard work of the Creating Chances team, but most importantly, by the students willingness to learn and their commitment to the execution of their roles on the day.
At Creating Chances, we connect ideas, inspire growth, and empower young people to build confidence, resilience, and optimism for a brighter future.
