Kenobi and Doc trotted into the playground at Scarborough Public School to squeals of joy from the students.

“I’ve never seen horses so big, and up so close,” one student said. “I’ve only seen ponies.”

The Mounted Police horses and their police officers, Alison and Hussein, were star attractions at the school’s Public Education Week celebration.

Principal Emma Hutchinson organised ‘local heroes’ and community organisations including the NSW Mounted Police, Scarborough Wombarra Surf Life Saving Club, Scarborough Fire and Rescue, and the University of Wollongong to talk to the students about future career opportunities in the emergency services.

“The special event focused on career exploration, student strengths and values and fostering bold aspirations for the future,” Ms Hutchinson said.

“The day embodies the belief that little moments today can change children’s lives. We’re thrilled to bring our school and community together to spark those moments of potential.”

Firefighters explained emergency procedures, peppered with student questions like: “How long does the oxygen last?” while the lifesavers took students through an on-land rescue in their playground overlooking the Pacific Ocean.

Moments of inspiration

In a vibrant celebration of creativity and learning, student writers and artists from Callaghan College Wallsend Campus joined forces to mark Education Week 2025, embracing this year’s theme: Ignite Your Potential.

Original poetry from student writers was paired with striking works from visual artists, creating unique collaborative pieces that were displayed in local cafés and salons throughout the week, offering unexpected moments of inspiration in everyday spaces.

The students said they hoped to surprise people with meaningful images that uplift, provoke thought and spark the imagination.

A collection of larger-format pieces was displayed in the centre court of Wallsend Village, inviting the wider community to engage with the students’ work in a public setting.

This grassroots initiative showcased student talent and highlighted the idea that education extends far beyond the classroom.