IN a Hunter first, Muswellbrook High School has welcomed two full-time Girls Academy staff members, to develop and empower Aboriginal girls.
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The program works through leadership training, mentoring, sport and extra-curricular programs.
Girls Academy was established in Western Australia and has grown to include schools in the Northern Territory and New South Wales.
It may still be a new initiative at Muswellbrook High, but the local teenagers already consider it rewarding to be a part of.
Having a lunchtime chat over food is an aspect they appreciate, but staff are available to support them throughout the week, and sometimes sit in classes to provide extra assistance.
Development officer Kylie Honor and program manager Elizabeth Howard hit the ground running at the beginning of Term 1.
Ms Honor said the program took a holistic development approach, rather than just focusing on education.
However, school attendance is a significant goal of the Girls Academy.
Through its work in other regions over the past five years, program participation has caused year 12 enrolments to increase by 276 per cent.
Student Alannah Miller said she knew the Girls Academy room was a place she could go if she ever needed help.
Girls Academy is possible through funding from corporate sponsors, the federal government, and Muswellbrook High School.
Any businesses or individuals interested in assisting locally are asked to contact Muswellbrook High School on 6543 1033.
For more information about Girls Academy, visit www.girlsacademy.com.au/about