Aboriginal Education Programs

Aboriginal dance group with arms outstretched and small puffs of chalk coming off hands

At Ballina Coast High School we proudly embrace and honour Aboriginal culture as a vital part of our community.

In partnership with the NSW Aboriginal Education Consultative Group (NSW AECG), we are committed to creating a respectful and inclusive environment where Aboriginal history, knowledge and traditions are valued and celebrated, reflecting their importance to our school's identity and learning.

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We provide programs designed to celebrate identity and empower our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students to be strong, proud and successful learners.

Jullum Ganngaang Centre

The Jullum Ganngaang Centre is dedicated to supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students by fostering wellbeing, academic achievement and cultural identity.

Key offerings include:

  • assistance with classwork and assessments
  • a secure and nurturing space for connection and mentorship
  • programs that nurture cuture, leadership and pride
  • customised support during key transitions.

Specific programs offered:

  • Stronger Sisters - a program for girls to build confidence and cultural connection through mentorship and activities
  • Jugga Mai Boys - a program for boys emphasising pride, respect and leadership
  • senior study sessions every Wednesday
  • in-class support
  • pathways/school-based traineeships
NASCA

NASCA (National Aboriginal Sporting Chance Academy) is a 100% Indigenous-governed organisation that works with schools and communities to help young people feel strong in their culture while building confidence in their futures.

Ballina Coast High School partnered with NASCA in 2025 to bring its Young Women's Academy to our school. It's success led to NASCA offering its first ever Young Men's Academy to our school from 2026.

What's involved:

  • students are supported to stay engaged, attend consistently and complete their classwork and assessments
  • builds confidence, leadership and connection to culture through mentoring and community involvement
  • provides tailored academic and wellbeing support to help every student succeed in their studies and beyond
  • NASCA works closely with BCHS staff and the Jullum Ganngaang Centre to ensure wrap around care and support for all participants.

Why it matters:

  • By combinging cultural strength with Aboriginal focus, NASCA helps create opportunities for Aboriginal students to achieve their HSC goals, pursue future pathways and lead within their communities.

Find out more about NASCA here or contact our school to speak to our NASCA Coordinator Abbey Orcher.