Qtopia Sydney’s inaugural Regional Education Program has completed its first journey through Central West NSW, delivering a bold message of inclusion, advocacy and leadership to more than 200 students across five schools.
Travelling almost 600 km in just three days, the team visited Orange, Trundle, Tullamore, Tottenham and Dubbo. Qtopia Sydney’s Programs Director Carly Fisher and Programs Coordinator Rosie Niven brought Qtopia Sydney’s belief that education saves lives to life, sparking vital conversations with students and staff about respect, kindness and what it truly means to lead with empathy.
Developed in partnership with the NSW Department of Education, the program is curriculum linked and age appropriate, covering key outcomes in History, PDHPE and Society and Culture from Stages 4 to 6. Built around real-world learning, Qtopia Sydney’s “Change Starts Here” program invites students to explore themes of activism, legacy and identity, encouraging them to recognise the power they hold to make change at schools, in their communities and beyond.
“Qtopia Sydney’s education program is an exceptional initiative that brings history to life while encouraging students to explore the themes of advocacy and activism,” said Sally Cheetham, Deputy Principal at Orange High School.
“I loved hearing our students discuss practical ways they could create a safer and kinder future in our school and the world,” she added.
The impact was felt deeply by students, many of whom had never been given the opportunity to explore these ideas in a structured, inclusive space.
“Carly and Rosie were full of enthusiasm, passion and authenticity about the mission and vision of Qtopia Sydney. It was a sight to behold. Messages of hope, resilience, the freedom to be yourself… it all aligned perfectly with our school’s values. I would love Carly and Rosie to return to our school,” said Renee Matheson, Acting Principal at Central West Leadership Academy in Dubbo.
The response from both students and educators confirms what Qtopia Sydney has always believed: when given the opportunity, young people rise to the challenge. They listen, they ask questions and they lead. While the stories may start in the classroom, the impact stretches far beyond.
“We know that education saves lives,” said Greg Fisher, CEO of Qtopia Sydney. “Students across Australia deserve access to inclusive, empowering programs. That’s why we’re committed to taking these programs on the road and reaching as many communities as we can.”
Qtopia Sydney will return to the road later this year, with plans to expand the program to more schools across the state. The team is now calling on educators to get in touch to register their interest.
For more information about Qtopia Sydney’s education programs, visit www.qtopiasydney.com.au/programs/education
