Term 3 Wrap Up

Term 3 Wrap Up!

It’s been a busy and exciting term at Maximising the Middle, with all five of our Innovation Projects approved for funding and now rolling out across Campbelltown and Penrith. We’re thrilled to see these initiatives coming to life and creating new opportunities for middle years young people (MYYP) in our communities.

Building Belonging in Campbelltown

In Campbelltown, Big Yellow Umbrella (BYU) is delivering Build & Belong, an engaging workshop series exploring identity and belonging for middle years young people across the region.

BYU has also launched The Nest at Minto Public School, a wellbeing-focused project designed to support students as they navigate the important middle years of development.

Meanwhile, at Robert Townson Public School, Ignite Your Path is already making a strong impact, with more than 120 students taking part in workshops covering a range of topics, from yoga and mindfulness to yarning circles and navigating friendships.

One particularly inspiring highlight was a group of students participating in Cook4Good, where they helped prepare nutritious meals for people experiencing homelessness and food insecurity. The experience gave students a meaningful opportunity to contribute to their community while developing empathy and understanding.

“The experience allowed students to move beyond simply learning about community need and instead take meaningful, practical action. Importantly, the day was also used to help normalise needing help. Students explored the idea that people can find themselves needing assistance for many different reasons and that there should be no shame or stigma attached to seeking support. They developed a greater awareness that there are people, organisations and services within our communities who are there to support us when we need them.”

Empowering Young Leaders in Penrith

Over in Penrith, Changemakers have completed the Stride Social Leadership Training, equipping them with the skills and confidence to champion the voices of middle years young people within their schools and Outside School Hours Care (OSHC) services.

At St Mary's North Public School, planning is underway for the Calm & Connection Zone project. This initiative aims to strengthen MYYP voice within the school community while redefining what student leadership can look like. Students will play a key role in designing a mural and sensory space that helps them regulate their emotions, connect with others and foster a stronger sense of belonging.

At Penrith City Council OSHC services, Educators are supporting MYYP through the Challenge Accepted! project, helping them develop leadership skills and take on meaningful roles within their communities. We’re already seeing some fantastic ideas emerge, with middle years young people currently planning an event for Children's Week that will showcase their strengths, talents and interests.

Looking Ahead

It’s inspiring to see so many middle years young people embracing new opportunities, developing leadership skills and creating positive change within their schools and communities. As these projects continue to unfold, we look forward to sharing more stories of connection, growth and impact from across Campbelltown and Penrith.