Crossing the Divide offers a range of highly practical training with qualifications that offer students a foundation of solid skills that translate into employment.

It is a mature learning environment steered by program director, Matt Pye. It is steeped in practical education and provides students with the opportunity to gain not only training, but confidence and accomplishment on many levels.

The program targets youth from Bundarra, Tingha and Inverell, aged 16-28 years of age

Bundarra principal, Dave Bieler said students come to them who are disengaged from the school, from poor-disciplined backgrounds, with socioeconomic problems, and some do not have the abilities or mindset for a regular school setting.

“Traditionally, those kids get left behind, and they make their own way in society the best way they can. Or not,” Mr Bieler said.

This year students have earned a life skills HSC, and a Certificate I in automotive. They also earned qualifications and competencies in metals and engineering framework, their white cards and wide range of nationally-recognised tickets.

“The idea is, they come out of the program and they’ve got X-amount more of certification that makes them a better prospect for employment when they walk out of here,” Mr Bieler said.

He said the second part was the social part of the course, supporting students in skills to interview and complete job applications and nurturing a work ethic.

There are already students with jobs or something in the pipeline and Mr Bieler said the success has been fantastic. 

He felt the achievements of each student can affect the outcomes for their jobs ahead, improve their family dynamics and situations and their future.

“The benefits keep flying on from all directions,” he said.

Bundarra is enrolling new students in 2015. You can contact the school on 6723 7102 or 0427 555 414 for more information. There is a free bus for the students daily from Inverell and Tingha.