Gunnedah High School, located in the North West of New South Wales, 80 kilometres west of Tamworth, serves the town and surrounding rural districts bounded by Boggabri, Mullaley and Somerton. There are 365 students at Gunnedah High, including the 43% of students who identify as Aboriginal.
The school aimed to deepen student engagement, particularly for those transitioning into the school, while enhancing the welcoming school environment. This initiative is aligned with Gunnedah High’s adoption of “Visible Learning” principles, which promote effective teaching and learning strategies.
As the local population is expected to grow, an increase in predicted enrollment numbers further emphasises the need to build a more connected and supportive school community.
Partnering with Creating Chances, Gunnedah High School implemented four well-being days for students in years 7 through 10. Eight regional facilitators and school-based trainees from Tamworth, Armidale, and Narromine, along with our Sydney-based Facilitation team, led these sessions.
The Activities were a mix of high-energy and reflective workshops, both indoors and outdoors, tailored to foster a sense of inclusion and belonging within the Gunnedah community. The sessions were structured in a station format, with groups of 15-20 students rotating between different stations led by our facilitation team.
“It was a nice reminder that I am part of a community of people at school and how important it is to work together so everyone can feel comfortable and included when we’re at school.”- Sarah, year 7 student*.
Activities were tailored to each year group’s needs, supporting year 7 students’ transition while older students’ were supported in their personal development through Restart, Reconnect, and Life Ready programs.
Deputy Principal Simone Carlyon noted that the wellbeing days successfully enhanced student connections and promoted a positive school environment, contributing to the school’s vision for deeper engagement and respect among students.
At Creating Chances, we connect ideas, inspire growth, and empower young people to build confidence, resilience, and optimism for a brighter future.
