Student Achievements
When Students Meet Opportunity
In Term 1, our school was fortunate to be invited by Committee4Greater Shepparton to attend its Allied Health Careers Event at the Woolshed. This event opened valuable doors for our students, giving them the chance to explore career pathways, speak directly with industry professionals, and gain real insight into the diverse world of Allied Health.
One of our Year 12 students, Gus McCully, discovered an unexpected spark that day. While visiting the employer stands, Gus was drawn to the team from Northern Victoria Orthotic & Prosthetic Service (NVOPS). With encouragement to engage and ask questions, Gus found himself captivated by a field he had never previously considered.
That single conversation led to something bigger. Gus connected further with Lynne Weir from NVOPS and arranged a two-week work experience placement during the school holidays. His enthusiasm and commitment impressed the team so much that he is now working casually 2 nights a week with NVOPS while completing Year 12.
Gus is also exploring future study options in orthotics and prosthetics, supported by both his workplace mentors and the Regional Pathways Program offered at our school.
This story is a powerful reminder of the impact that genuine connections between young people and local employers can have—sometimes all it takes is one conversation to open a new pathway.
Read on to hear directly from both Gus and Lynne about how this opportunity unfolded and why strengthening youth–employer connections is so important for our region.
Q&A with Year 12 student Gus McCully
Before attending the C4GS Health Innovation Dinner, what study or career pathways were you considering for after school?
Before the event, I was considering studying Physiotherapy or Paramedicine. I knew I wanted a hands‑on career where I could help people, but I wasn’t sure whether I would meet the entry requirements for those competitive courses.
What caught your attention at the Northern Victoria Orthotic & Prosthetic Service (NVOPS) employer stand and sparked your interest in their work?
The NVOPS stand immediately stood out because it introduced me to a field I had never really come across before. I found it fascinating to learn about a career pathway I previously had no knowledge of.
During your two‑week work experience placement with the NVOPS team, what kinds of tasks or activities did you take part in?
I was able to shadow several client appointments and observe the full process—from the initial meet‑and‑greet to seeing how a prosthesis is designed and made for each individual. I especially enjoyed building relationships with clients over the two weeks and seeing how personalised and meaningful the work is.
Has your thinking about your post‑school pathway changed since the experience? If so, what direction are you now considering?
Yes, my pathway has definitely changed. I am now considering studying a Bachelor of Prosthetics and Orthotics, and I’m exploring university options with support from NVOPS staff and through the La Trobe Regional Pathways Program delivered here at GSSC.
In your own words, what have been the biggest benefits of completing work experience?
The biggest benefits have been learning about the job firsthand, experiencing the real work environment, and hearing the stories and journeys of the people who work in the field. It gave me a genuine understanding of what the career is actually like.
What advice would you give other students about saying yes to opportunities—such as attending events like the C4GS Health Innovation Dinner, taking on work experience, or joining excursions and incursions?
My advice is simple: just do it. You get the chance to learn new things, discover pathways you may never have considered, and open doors you didn’t even know existed.
Q&A with Lynne from NVOPS
What encouraged you to offer Gus a work experience opportunity after meeting him at the C4GS Health Innovation Dinner?
Gus asked thoughtful, insightful questions—everything from “How does a prosthesis stay attached to the body?” to “How long does the training take?” and “Which parts of the prosthesis or orthosis do you make here?” His curiosity and genuine interest made it clear he was eager to learn more about the field.
How did Gus perform during his placement, and what qualities do you value most in young people undertaking work experience?
Gus was Excellent. He listened carefully during his induction and demonstrated a strong understanding of the importance of client privacy and respect in a health setting. He stayed engaged, asked great questions, used his time well, and was consistently respectful of both clients and staff.
What influenced your decision to offer Gus part‑time employment after his placement?
Our decision was shaped by several factors:
- His strong performance and work ethic
- His ability to work well with others
- His genuine interest in the field and willingness to begin developing skills ahead of future university study
How important is it for businesses to welcome and support young people in their workplaces?
It’s incredibly important. Young people benefit from seeing a wide range of workplace environments, and while it can be challenging for small businesses to find the time, offering the right opportunity to the right student can make a real difference. For some students, two weeks is ideal; for others, a tour, a day, or a short placement may be more appropriate.
Is there anything else you’d like to share about the experience or the value of engaging with students?
Learning from young people—their perspectives, ideas, and questions—is always valuable. A workplace thrives when people of all ages contribute. Many of us benefited from someone giving us their time when we were younger, and it’s important to continue paying that generosity forward.
Year 11 Theatre Studies
Our Year 11 Theatre Studies students recently presented their production of Medea.
The performance showcased the dedication, creativity, and hard work of the entire cast and crew, who worked together to bring this powerful Greek tragedy to life.
Year 12 Personal Development Skills
Last week, our Year 12 Personal Development Skills students proudly hosted Australia's Biggest Morning Tea in support of the Cancer Council.
The event brought staff together for a great cause, raising funds to support the 1 in 2 Australians affected by cancer.
A huge congratulations to our Year 12 PDS students for their hard work and organisation, and thank you to everyone who attended or donated to support this important cause.
If you'd still like to help the class reach their fundraising goal, donations are still welcome via the link below. Together, we can help Cancer Council raise much needed funds that go towards vital cancer research, support services, prevention programs, and advocacy.
https://www.biggestmorningtea.com.au/s/107406/165874/e
GSSC graduate
We’re thrilled to see GSSC graduate Jay Bryce become a published author this week with the launch of “Proud to Serve”, tracing the history of GV Health from 1876 to present day.
The book launch was attended by senior health leaders, community leaders and hosted by the Historical Society of Mooroopna. Jay, from the Class of ’21, is a former Shepparton News journalist and member of the GV Health communications team.
He is now pursuing a teaching degree in Sydney, so who knows – maybe we’ll see him back at GSSC one day!
