Faced with a festival-free future, seven Year 12 students from Northlakes High School on the NSW Central Coast decided to create their own.

Northwave, a live music festival, drew more than 300 people to the school gymnasium late last month for a night of rock and roll mayhem.

The event was the final assessment for the school’s vocational education and training (VET) Entertainment Industry Studies course, with the student organisers taking ownership of every element, booking acts, managing marketing and lighting, securing local business sponsorships and raising funds through a community barbecue.

Northlakes High teacher Nathan Murray said he and the school were “completely hands-off” throughout.

Six young, local bands - predominantly rock and metal - performed across the night, with a makeshift mosh pit proving the music festival scene is alive and kicking on the Central Coast.

Student organiser, Blake King, 17, said it made sense to bring the music to the crowds.

“Usually, the closest place for us to be at a big rock and all-ages festival is in Sydney," he said.

Principal Warren Welham said the event reflected the school’s commitment to opening real pathways for high potential students.

“We offer the Entertainment specialisation extension course that results in students gaining a full Certificate III qualification and gives them a pathway into university studies,” Mr Welham said.

“It’s a significant pathway for our students and supports those with a passion for the entertainment industry.”

The students will graduate with a Certificate III in Live Production and Technical Services.

And if Mr Murray’s prediction is correct, next year’s cohort will be aiming even higher.

“I think we’ll have to hold a three-day music festival now,” he said.