SPRING BACK

Building confidence. Creating connections. Discovering possibilities.

Established in 2022, Spring Back is an eight-week program designed to support Year 10 students who may be feeling disconnected from school or uncertain about their future.

Through hands-on activities, new experiences, mentoring and exposure to education and career pathways, Spring Back creates opportunities for young people to discover their strengths, build resilience and develop confidence in what they can achieve.

By connecting students with positive role models, local businesses and the wider community, the program helps young people explore new possibilities and take meaningful steps towards their future.

BEYOND THE CLASSROOM

ADVENTURE & RESILIENCE

From surfing and sailing to mountain biking and swim survival, students step outside their comfort zones, discover new strengths and build confidence through exciting, hands-on experiences.

FUTURE PATHWAYS

Through TAFE Tasters, visits to Deakin University and The Gordon, and behind-the-scenes workplace experiences, students explore different career and study pathways and discover opportunities for their future.

COMMUNITY CONNECTIONS

Through partnerships with local businesses, organisations and community members, students gain valuable real-world experiences, build positive relationships and discover opportunities for work experience, employment and apprenticeships.

MENTORSHIP & SUPPORT

Spring Back connects young people with positive role models, dedicated mentors and supportive community members. These meaningful relationships help students build confidence, feel supported and develop connections that can continue well beyond the program.

THE SPRING BACK EXPERIENCE

For eight weeks, Spring Back gives Year 10 students the opportunity to step beyond their everyday school environment, discover new interests and experience what’s possible. From outdoor adventures to behind-the-scenes workplace visits, every experience is an opportunity to learn, connect and grow.

Students attend on Thursdays and Fridays, from 8:45am to 3:00pm.

Every experience is designed to encourage personal growth, strengthen relationships and help students return to school with renewed motivation and a clearer sense of direction.

IN THEIR OWN WORDS

“Spring Back is an amazing program that taught me so much about myself and the workforce. Some days put me out of my comfort zone, pushing me to do things I would never do, but in the end, I really loved the activities. I was introduced to new people who can help me with future work, and other students who’ve become my friends. Spring Back allowed me to see behind the scenes of many work pathways and introduced me to different work opportunities.”

Grace — 2024 Alumni

“My time in the GYE Spring Back program was extremely valuable. It helped me develop important social and personal skills, and I gained a lot from the experience. I really enjoyed being part of the program and loved connecting with everyone and all the places we visited. It was a great experience overall, and I’m very grateful for the opportunity.”

Jye — 2023 Alumni

“Completing the program has made so much stronger, emotionally and mentally. After my time with Spring Back, I decided to pursue a Community Service Certificate at the Gordon so I can make the same difference in the lives of others that Spring Back did for me.”

April — 2024 Alumni

WHY SPRING BACK MATTERS

Every young person deserves the opportunity to discover their strengths, build confidence and imagine a positive future.

Spring Back was created with a focus on early support — reaching young people at a time when encouragement, connection and new experiences can make a meaningful difference.

Through positive mentoring, community partnerships and real-world opportunities, the program helps students recognise their potential and explore pathways they may never have considered.

Success looks different for every young person. For some, it may mean returning to school with renewed motivation. For others, it may be discovering an interest in a trade, pursuing further study, building friendships or simply developing the confidence to say, “I can.”

Sometimes, one opportunity can open the door to an entirely different future.

PARTICIPANT PHOTO ACCESS