Frankston North’s Young Change Makers lead the way in school attendance
Young Frankston North Change Makers are building relationships and connections to improve their neighbourhoods for themselves and their peers.
Students from Aldercourt Primary School and Mahogany Rise Primary School participated in the Map Your World Program run by Our Place Frankston North. Map Your World is a UNICEF program empowering young people to amplify their voices and make an impact in their community. In this program, participants studied notable changemakers like Malala Yousafzai, Rosa Parks, Nelson Mandela, and Australia’s own Vincent Lingiari, drawing inspiration from their strengths and the impact of their actions. Guided by Paul Kelly’s lyrics, “from little things, big things grow,” they explored how individual ideas can create a ripple effect in communities.
Students analysed local issues and identified actionable solutions to address them. They were encouraged to think creatively while unpacking these issues of concern. Through this process, these Young Change Makers became empowered to drive positive change in their communities and schools, proposing strategies to strengthen community ties, improve relationships and engage others.
“What I loved about the Map Your World program was watching our Year 6 leaders grow throughout this time. They were quite reserved and shy beforehand and now they’ve really come out of their shell. They were so proud of their efforts. Contributing to such important issues in schools was really empowering for them”.
Andrew Schneider, Mahogany Rise Primary School Principal
One of the local issues students identified was school absenteeism. Students emphasised that attending school is crucial for maintaining friendships and having fun. They also noted that those who attend school are likely to earn more in the future.
With this understanding, they launched an impactful Attendance Campaign with the message: “When you’re not here, we miss you and we all miss out.” This slogan aims to remind every student of their importance — not just for their own education, but also for peer relationships and community strength. The hope is that this campaign will encourage their peers to attend school.
“Our students recognise the power of showing up — not just for their learning, but for each other and their community. This campaign is a reminder that every day they attend, they’re investing in their future and strengthening their connections.”
Matt Mitchell, Aldercourt, Primary School Assistant Principal
Students also expressed concern for young people who aren’t supported and often turn to antisocial behaviour, such as gang violence, drug use, vaping and homelessness. Feeling fortunate to have supportive families, part of the campaign involved thanking their primary caregivers.
The Attendance Campaign includes an exciting video showcasing the unity of students, schools, and community partners like Our Place. The video captures the enthusiasm and dedication of these Young Change Makers and starts a conversation to improve wellbeing in Frankston North.
“We need to promote more active citizenship and include student voices in more of our community strategies. The students were brilliant in devising localised solutions,” said Rosie Silva, Partnership Manager, Our Place.
Watch the Frankston North Attendance Campaign video below.
