The inaugural Principal Champion Forum in Inverell focused on "stress testing" program delivery and mapping the EPP ecosystem. From site visits at Boss Engineering to strategic workshops on leading change, discover how our Principal Champions are shaping the future of vocational education and training (VET) in NSW schools.

A strategic gathering in the state’s north-west

On 3 - 4 March 2026, educational leaders from across the state gathered at Inverell High School for the EPP Principal Champion Forum. The forum served as a vital platform for the department to align program initiatives with Our Plan for NSW Public Education, specifically Pillar 6: Provide meaningful post school pathways.

The event opened with a powerful Acknowledgement of Country featuring Inverell High STARS and Clontarf student dancers.

Stress testing for school excellence

A core component of the first day was Workshop 1, led by Shannon Mudiman, Leader, Educational Pathways Program. Principal Champions conducted a rigorous stress test of program delivery.

The teams interrogated both internal school factors - such as the role of career advisers - and external elements like industry alignment and local community partnerships. This "inside/outside" perspective is designed to help schools strengthen pathways within their School Excellence Planning cycles, ensuring that EPP objectives are deeply embedded in school excellence plans.

Mapping the ecosystem with the Investigation Board

Following the morning sessions, Senior Project and Policy Officer Geoff Nix facilitated Workshop 2, titled "Strengthening key stakeholder relationships".

Participants detailed stakeholder personas and identified underutilised groups and gaps in capability. Noting these connections the group created a strategic map of the stakeholder landscape, aiming to elevate the voice of EPP Head Teachers Careers in decision–making.

A few moments with our Secretary

At the close of Day 1, our EPP Principal Champions had the chance to engage a special surprise guest. Murat Dizdar, Secretary of the NSW Department of Education, made some time available for what was planned to be a quick appearance, but which ended up being a half hour of robust discussion and Q&A. So much so that the EPP team was asked by the Secretary to come back with ideas and more information in Term 3 to keep the ideas and innovation flowing.

Industry insights and the future of the program

The second day shifted focus toward practical industry application with a site visit to Boss Engineering. This gave principals first–hand insight into the local industry landscape and the diverse career opportunities available to students through school-based apprenticeships and traineeships (SBATs).

The forum concluded with a forward-looking session on the sustainability of the Principal Champion network. Facilitated by EPP Delivery Manager Vanessa Gonzalez, the final workshop encouraged innovative thinking to cultivate a new shared vision for the role in 2026 and beyond. As Suzie Matthews, Executive Director, Skills and Workforce Programs, noted, the focus remains firmly on removing barriers and lifting VET access for all students.