Funded through the Community Activation and Social Isolation Initiative (CASI), ESC's Year 7 and 9 students recently participated in a series of workshops.
The Year 7 students took part in the 'Connection' workshop which encourages empathy and support of authentic, positive expression.
The Year 9 students participated in the 'Peer Dynamics' workshop which shifts the peer dynamic to encourage respect, empathy and awareness.
The Reach Foundation provides safe and supportive spaces for students to discuss and share their experiences, successes and challenges.
Reach was founded by Jim Stynes and Paul Currie in 1994 with a clear vision - to inspire young people to believe in themselves and get the most out of life.
The Foundation's workshops aim to improve resilience and self-belief, enhance social and emotional skills and improve connections amongst the peer group.
Strathbogie Shire Council Mayor Cr Chris Raeburn said the workshops were a fantastic use of CASI funding.
"It is important for young people in our Shire to feel engaged and empowered in order to have the best possible chance at a bright future," Cr Raeburn said.
Euroa Secondary College Wellbeing Officer Nothara Suraweera said the Reach facilitators did a fantastic job in creating a safe space for students to share their vulnerabilities and to gently challenge and shift their perspectives.
"The work that was done in the 90 minutes was profound and I'm sure will be remembered by the young people as well as the staff present," Ms Suraweera said.
"It really set the groundwork for us to build on as a school to foster resilience and empower our young people."
