A TRANSFORMATIVE new education option is coming to Macksville in 2026, with the official endorsement of Gumma Place School – Australia’s first trades-based Special Assistance School.
The school will offer a full Year 9 and 10 curriculum designed specifically for young people who have not thrived in mainstream educational environments.
In its first year, Gumma Place will accommodate 22 students, with plans to expand enrolment to 40 students by 2027.
“At Gumma Place, learning looks different,” the school said in a statement.
“Young people will learn by doing, through practical projects across automotive, metal fabrication, woodwork, agriculture and more.”
The school will be located at the ShoreTrack facility within the Macksville Industrial Estate.
It is part of a wider initiative by ShoreTrack, a community-focused organisation established in 2020 by Jill Ashley and Paul ‘Fatty’ Ireland.
Motivated by their deep connections within the region and their direct experience with youth disengagement, Jill and Fatty recognised that traditional education systems were failing a specific group of young people, such as those who are disadvantaged, high-risk, or already disconnected from school and community life.
What started with Jill and Fatty volunteering their time for an entire year, working with a small group of young people, has since grown into a proven and respected organisation offering tailored support and training.
Gumma Place School continues this grassroots ethos by providing small class sizes, highly targeted support for students, and practical trade-based learning in a real-world environment.
The school’s philosophy is based on the understanding that some students flourish outside the conventional classroom, especially when learning is hands-on and directly linked to future employment opportunities.
This new school builds on ShoreTrack’s existing suite of youth-focused programs.
These include respite support for school students aged 10 to 15, short courses designed in partnership with Regional Industry and Education Partnerships (RIEP), and a hands-on Certificate II in Rural Operations for school leavers in collaboration with Tocal Agricultural College.
Expressions of interest for Gumma Place School are now open, with more information available at www.gummaplace.org.au or by emailing giinagay@gummaplace.nsw.edu.au.
By Mick BIRTLES
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