Belgravia Foundation Celebrates the Success of the “Schools Out” Youth Pool Party at Whittlesea Swim Centre

Celebrating the success of partnerships within local venue to deliver an event to have impact on youth engagement.


On Friday, 20 December 2024, the Whittlesea Swim Centre was filled with excitement as it hosted the “Schools Out” Youth Pool Party, a free, three-hour event that drew 170 young people from 12 local high schools. This event was a key initiative in the Active Whittlesea Community Engagement Plan 2023–2028, which recognises youth as an underrepresented community. By providing an inclusive, fun environment, the event successfully connected young people with the Whittlesea Swim Centre, promoting both their health and wellbeing. 

The event was a result of a strong partnership between Whittlesea Secondary College’s student leadership group, local businesses, community organisations, and Whittlesea City Council’s Youth Services. The students played an integral role in designing the event, which fostered an atmosphere of fun and community engagement. The Whittlesea Swim Centre was buzzing with energy as participants enjoyed live music from DJ Me-ow, a delicious sausage sizzle provided by Gilly’s Meats and Champion's IGA, and a range of fun pool games and dress-up activities facilitated by volunteers from the Whittlesea Rotary Club. 

Belgravia Foundation celebrates the success of this collaborative effort, recognising the positive impact such community-driven initiatives have on youth empowerment and social inclusion. The “Schools Out” Youth Pool Party is a shining example of how local communities, schools, businesses, and service providers, including Whittlesea Swim Centre and Belgravia Leisure, can come together to support young people in meaningful ways, providing them with opportunities to connect, engage, and thrive. 

Looking ahead, this event sets the stage for future initiatives aimed at continuing to support youth engagement, wellbeing, and inclusion within Whittlesea region. The success of the “Schools Out” Youth Pool Party reinforces Belgravia Foundation’s commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of young people, ensuring they feel valued and connected to their community. 

Ruby Southam