ICMS Welcomes NRL School to Work Students for Campus Visit

Students from the NRL School to Work (S2W) program recently got a real taste of college life at ICMS.  

Their campus visit was all about opening doors – giving them a chance to explore what comes after school, meet new people, and see where further study could take them. 

The visit was organised to support students thinking about pathways into industries such as business, management, IT among others, and offered a practical introduction to studying at ICMS.  

“Today is about helping students see what’s possible,” Kane McQuiggin, ICMS Domestic Development Executive, explained. 

“By stepping onto our campus, we hope this experience sparks new ideas, opens doors, and gives them the confidence to imagine themselves here.”  

Recognising Culture and Community

The day started with a smoking ceremony outside the ICMS Castle.  

This act of respect and connection to country meant a lot to many of the students, especially those from First Nations communities.  

Student Presentations and Campus Tour

During the visit, students attended a presentation that covered what ICMS offers – courses, entry pathways, scholarships, student life, and available support.  

They also heard about students Jade Hughes and Joshua O’Neill who both came through the NRL S2W program, received scholarships at ICMS, and are now proud members of the ICMS community.

“It’s important for students to see that not long ago, Jade and Josh were in the same position, exploring their options and taking that first step toward something bigger,” said Kane. 

A campus tour showcased some of the main facilities, including the Pollard Resource Centre, the Student Success Centre, the Grand Dining Room, and the student bar, helping visitors get a feel for day-to-day student life. 

After lunch, students joined a creative session with Ainslie Regan where they painted Rugby League balls with First Nations designs. ICMS and S2W staff also participated, supporting students as they expressed themselves and worked together. 

Moving Forward

In 2024, ICMS was named a finalist for the NRL Educator of the Year Award, recognising the college’s ongoing commitment to supporting Indigenous students through education and partnership. 

Now in its third year, the ICMS and NRL S2W collaboration continues to open doors for young people.  

For many students, the visit represented the first step toward further study. They left with new connections and a clearer path ahead.