The very first COGSY programs were designed as a short, intensive 3-day experience for youth who had disengaged or were at risk of disengaging from school. This program was born out of a need to support young people who struggled to thrive in traditional educational settings, often missing out on opportunities due to their individual challenges. By finding alternative pathways, COGSY is able to match their interests and skills to career options that are more aligned with their strengths and passions.
One of the participants in these early programs was young Kingston. Even though he tried his best, school just wasn’t the right fit for him. Kingston found it difficult to stay focused and motivated within a traditional classroom environment and therefore often found himself in the office ! However, through the support and guidance Kingston was able to explore new avenues and discover a path that resonated with him.
Today, two years later, Kingston is 16 years old and has been completing his education through homeschooling. We are incredibly proud to share that he has made significant progress. At the beginning of the year, he earned his L driver’s license and is already halfway to obtaining his P’s. But that’s not all—Kingston has just secured a First Nations Fire Ranger traineeship with Gladstone Regional Council. This traineeship, set to begin in early 2025, will offer him the chance to develop hands-on skills in land management, caring for country, and learning traditional knowledge.
Kingston is excited to start this new chapter, where he will gain valuable experience while also contributing to his community. He’s especially looking forward to saving up for his “dream car” by the time he’s eligible for his P’s in March.
Kingston’s journey is a testament to what can be achieved when we support young people in finding the right path for them. At COGSY, we are committed to developing more programs in 2025 that focus on this cohort of youth who struggle to fit into mainstream education. Our goal is to create tailored opportunities that allow them to explore careers suited to their unique skills and interests, ensuring they have the support they need to thrive.
Congratulations, Kingston! We wish you every success as you embark on this exciting journey.