Welcome to Maximising the Middle
Celebrating and Supporting Middle Years Young People Aged 8–14
We're proud to introduce Maximising the Middle (link), an initiative dedicated to celebrating and supporting middle years young people (ages 8–14). These years are full of change, discovery, and possibility. Middle years young people are finding their voices, building meaningful friendships, and developing skills that will carry them into adolescence and shape their future.
Middle years young people are curious, capable, and creative – but they also need the right supports to thrive. Too often, this age group is overlooked. Maximising the Middle was created to change this. We want to celebrate this vital stage of life and ensure every child has the opportunities, connections, and encouragement they deserve.
Our Mission
To build a coalition of people passionate about supporting middle years young people (8–14 years) to thrive in the Campbelltown and Penrith regions.
Our Vision
To foster a community that values and supports middle years young people by creating opportunities to elevate their voices and providing resources that ensure every middle years young person can thrive.
Our Aim
To deeply understand middle years young people – what they think it means to thrive, and who and what can help them get there by discovering what thriving means to them, and by identifying the people and resources that support their journey.
Working Together for Middle Years Young People
Maximising the Middle is a collaboration between three organisations that share a vision for a stronger future:
- Uniting – supporting families and communities to grow together and thrive
- ARACY (Australian Research Alliance for Children and Youth) – bringing together knowledge and evidence to improve the lives of children and young people
- Smarter Stronger Institute – empowering children, families, and communities through strengths-based, culturally grounded approaches
Together, we're supporting schools and communities to make a real difference. This is just the beginning. We'll continue to share stories, tools, and opportunities to connect.
Join Us
Please explore the website, share it with others, and join a growing movement to recognise and support middle years young people. Sign up for our mailing list.
Together, we'll build strong foundations so that every middle years young person can thrive.