Coodanup College’s new Girls Academy program is part of a state-wide effort to better engage female Aboriginal students in high school, and break down the barriers that prevent them completing their education and reaching their full potential.
Last year, year 11 student Harmoni Robinson said, she didn’t really have much to look forward to at school, and as a result her attendance fell.
“I wasn’t very engaged,” she said, but since becoming part of the Girls Academy, she said her aspirations have been set higher.
Harmoni wants to finish year 12, and perhaps become a youth worker.
“At the end of school I’ll at least get a job… then I can do similar stuff to this, in a way. I just like talking to people and helping,” she said.
Finding a pathway after graduation for their students is a primary aim in the Girls Academy, along with health, body image and relationships, cultural connections, volunteering and leadership.
Academy head Shannon LePlastrier said the Girls Academy will look for a youth work traineeship for Harmoni, connecting her with local youth centres and possible work opportunities.
“We aim for 85 per cent attendance for all our academy students... we hope to support disengaged students who struggle with day to day school life,” Ms LePlastrier said.
“Attendance in general can be an issue, but it’s definitely one of our core values in making sure our girls are supported.”
Harmoni said being part of the Girls Academy had given her something to look forward to at school, like excursions.
On February 7 the Coodanup Girls Academy students traveled to Curtin University for an induction day with girls in the program at other schools in the state.
They did team-building and cultural activities, and got to meet the womens’ AFL Fremantle Dockers team, including ex-Coodanup College student Cassie Davidson.
“We got involved with other girls academy schools. I was nervous, but it was really good to meet all different kinds of people. I liked the team building, cos you’re getting involved with the others,” Harmoni said.
“With the other girls, I didn’t really used to talk to them, but here [at the Girls Academy] I talk to them and hang out, we support each other.”
