Youth Programs

Youth Exchange

Embark on a life-changing journey with Rotary Youth Exchange, a prestigious program by Rotary International that enables Year 10 or 11 high school students to live and study abroad for a full year. This immersive experience lets young people explore diverse cultures, forge lifelong friendships across approximately 60 countries, and gain a global perspective. By participating, students contribute to a vibrant community exchange, enhancing mutual understanding and inspiring personal growth that resonates back home.

Interested students please contact us for more details.

Rypen

(Rotary Youth Program of Enrichment)

Teenagers today benefit greatly from opportunities to develop "life skills" and motivation to help them cope with the challenges of a very competitive future.

Pressure is put on students to perform academically and their results are the benchmark of success. However other skills are needed for the next stage of a student's growth, be that further education or the workplace.

During an intensive residential weekend, young people aged approximately 14 to 16 years will develop increased motivation, improved life skills, better self-image, pride in themselves and an understanding of setting and achieving goals. At the same time, participants are interacting with peers from different backgrounds, and different parts of our district, improving their teamwork skills and having fun!! All this done in an informal atmosphere, where questions and debates are encouraged.

SUMMER CAMP

Dates TBA

February 2027

Sydney Academy of Sport (SAS)

Wakehurst Parkway, Narrabeen

Applications open in November for the next Summer RYPEN

School advisors are invited to nominate existing Year 9 students that will be entering Year 10 in 2027.

The Summer RYPEN Information Pack ⬇️ includes student nomination forms school advisors or Rotary Clubs can send directly to Summer RYPEN Chair Melanie Lewis.

More detailed registrations are captured within the SAS portal via a link emailed to students in December.

Applications for 2027 will open in November 2026

Melanie Lewis

Rotary Social Impact Network

Chair – Summer RYPEN

Which students?

Full time students from Years 9/10, aged 14-16 years old
Students who have undeveloped potential
Students are welcome from both the public and private sector
This program is aimed towards students who need a helping hand to develop leadership, initiative and responsibility skills
Contact your local high school Year 9 or 10 Adviser, School Counsellors or Heads of Welfare
We aim at equal numbers of male and female students

Students Achieve:

Improved leadership skills in a non-threatening and supportive environment
Increased motivation and improved life skills
Improved self-image and pride
Develop an understanding of setting and achieving goals
Increased confidence to overcome problems and take control of their future
Improved appreciation of diversity