Joumana Youssef, Principal of Granville South Creative and Performing Arts High School (GSCAPAHS), is recognised for her commitment to students’ academic, social, and emotional growth. Her outlook centres on each student’s unique needs, creating a culture of opportunity and support that has made GSCAPAHS a vital part of Western Sydney.

“I am committed to providing our students with opportunities that support their path to success. With the Educational Pathways Program we will continue this journey, supporting our students as they embark on meaningful educational and vocational pathways,” Joumana explains.

In her role as Principal Champion, Joumana is looking forward to promoting the EPP’s impact and hopes that sharing her school’s success stories will inspire more students to engage with the program. She believes what’s most exciting is the EPP’s approach of offering personalised pathways that resonate with her students’ talents and interests.

“This approach not only supports their academic and career goals but also fosters a strong sense of belonging and purpose - often helping make financial contributions to their family,” she adds.

Anthony Angel, Principal of Glendale Technology High School, brings over 2 decades of experience and a commitment to fostering student engagement through community-centred education. With experience across Newcastle and the Central Coast, Anthony understands the power of vocational programs for students who, like his own son, may not find traditional academic tracks engaging.

“I felt the EPP filled a big void in the educational programs that we offer students,” he says.

“It is an outstanding initiative that supports schools to provide authentic and engaging pathways for students, through employment and opportunities to help engage students at school.”

Anthony’s initiatives at Glendale Technology High include Child Services, which not only provides students the opportunity to explore this career path but has also strengthened the school Support Unit transition program.

“There are so many ways that EPP not only engages with careers education, but also supports the other happenings within a school,” he says.

Joumana and Anthony are both eager to see the program grow. Joumana is particularly excited to see more students completing School-Based Apprenticeships and Traineeships (SBATs) and believes the program plays a role in keeping students engaged.

“It’s incredibly rewarding to witness students who may have previously left school now choosing career experiences and committing to their studies,” says Joumana.

Anthony, meanwhile, focuses on continued innovation.

“We are constantly looking at school-based initiatives and working with Cass Wells, Head Teacher Careers to develop new programs,” he explains.

Joining the already established group of Principal Champions dedicated to the Educational Pathways Program, Joumana and Anthony are set to amplify the EPP’s message across NSW: that vocational education is a powerful and promising option for all students.