Seventeen Year 10 students from Narrabri High School have taken part in an immersive, action-packed workshop designed to prepare them for future careers in policing and emergency services.
Held at the training centre at Mines Rescue Gunnedah in March, the ‘Future Blue – Pathways to Policing’ workshop brought together students with industry professionals from Mines Rescue NSW, Fire and Rescue Gunnedah and local NSW Police, who provided mentoring and support throughout the day.
The program offered students a rare opportunity to engage in realistic emergency response scenarios. Activities included preparing for and responding to road crash situations, establishing safe rescue scenes, managing casualties and delivering emergency care. Students also learned how to extricate people from entrapment, preserve incident scenes, and carry out post-operational procedures.
To further enhance the experience, participants undertook virtual reality training simulations, allowing them to safely navigate high-risk scenarios, and gained practical skills in firefighting and extinguisher use.
The workshop was designed to build critical real-world skills such as teamwork, communication, problem-solving and hazard awareness—key attributes for careers in emergency services.
Delivered in partnership with the Regional Industry Education Partnerships (RIEP) program, the initiative forms part of the Future Blue pilot program.
The program aims to strengthen pathways into policing and emergency service careers while developing student leadership, resilience and public safety awareness.
Students involved in the pilot have expressed strong interest in pursuing careers in the sector, with further engagement and pathway development planned.
Participants said the experience had a lasting impact on their outlook and confidence.
Jarrad said, “This course isn’t just about learning to be leader; it’s about discovering the voice and the confidence to take charge when it matters most. I’ve realised that true leadership isn’t a title, it’s an action, and this policing course is helping me to understand that”.
Lincoln added, “Walking into the local police station wasn’t just an excursion; it was a glimpse into the future. Seeing this profession in action really transforms a classroom lesson into a lifelong calling, giving every challenge I face a clear purpose”.
Jacob said, “It’s not just about rules; it’s about knowing how to talk to people and keep a situation under control. This program has given me the confidence to step up and be the person who can keep things safe, no matter where I am”.
Narrabri High School principal Emily McInerney highlighted the importance of such initiatives in preparing students for life beyond school.
“At Narrabri High School, personalised pathways are essential to ensuring every student finishes school ready to succeed in their chosen career as an informed, responsible citizen,” she said.
Participation in the program also contributes to formal qualifications, with students working towards a Certificate II in Active Volunteering and gaining Statements of Attainment toward a Certificate II in Workplace Skills.`
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