St Albans Primary School has embedded tennis as a core part of its Physical Education program from Foundation to Year 6, demonstrating a genuine and sustained whole‑school commitment to the sport. In the early years, tennis is taught through the Fundamental Movement Skills (Striking) unit, with Foundation to Year 2 students receiving around six weeks of tennis-focused learning each year. From Years 3 to 6, students build on these skills through a 10‑week Net and Wall Games unit, ensuring consistent development as they move through the school.

In 2025, the school partnered with local coach, Darren Ha and DHA Tennis Academy to deliver the Emirates Force For Good program, engaging approximately 175 students across Years 3 to 6, nearly 70% of the entire school. The success of the program has led to a formal expression of interest to participate again in 2026, with plans to extend the program to Years 1 to 4 so even more students can experience tennis. School leadership actively champions the program, and classroom teachers support sessions by participating alongside students, reinforcing that tennis is a valued and integral part of every child’s education.

Located within one of Victoria’s most culturally and linguistically diverse communities, St Albans Primary School supports students from more than 40 language backgrounds, including newly arrived families and a high proportion of students supported through Disability Inclusion processes, as well as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students. Tennis programs are thoughtfully adapted to ensure equitable access for all, using modified equipment, flexible rules and court sizes, education support staff assistance, and individualised goals. These inclusive practices ensure tennis is not a program for some, but for every student.

The partnership with DHA Tennis Academy extends beyond lessons, connecting students to St Albans East Tennis Club and the wider tennis community. For many students, this was their first experience of a tennis club and a powerful introduction to ongoing participation. The provision of racquets and balls through the Emirates Force For Good program is particularly meaningful, enabling students who may not own sporting equipment to continue playing beyond school hours.

Regular lunchtime tennis activities and participation in interschool competitions further strengthen the school’s tennis culture. Since 2025, students’ skills, confidence and enjoyment have grown noticeably, with a continued focus on participation, sportsmanship and resilience. Through strong leadership, inclusive practices and purposeful partnerships, the school has built a program that makes tennis accessible to all children.

Wahgunyah Primary School demonstrates an outstanding commitment to tennis by embedding it into everyday school life rather than treating it as a one‑off or optional program. Tennis is a consistent and visible part of the student experience, integrated through daily Morning Fitness sessions where Year 5/6 students lead inclusive, multi‑age activities with staff support. In addition, every student participates in weekly, year‑round coaching delivered in partnership with Margaret Court Tennis Academy, ensuring high‑quality instruction and continuity for all year levels.

Inclusion sits at the heart of the program. Modified equipment such as red, orange and green balls, flexible grouping and simplified activities ensure that all students, including those with disabilities or lower confidence, can participate meaningfully and experience success. Peer leadership plays a key role, with older students supporting younger peers, fostering belonging, confidence and a strong whole‑school culture of participation.

Sporting Schools funding has been critical in sustaining and strengthening tennis at Wahgunyah Primary School. This support enables the school to provide professional coaching for every student, regardless of background or financial capacity, and has transformed tennis from funded sessions into a deeply embedded, year‑round program. In a regional setting where access to specialist coaching can be limited, this funding has been the catalyst for long‑term cultural change and the establishment of clear pathways into community participation.

The school’s strong partnership with Margaret Court Tennis Academy, coach Gary Comins, and the local tennis club ensures a seamless transition from school to community tennis. Regular communication, shared coaching approaches and active promotion of club opportunities have resulted in increased junior participation, weekly coaching across all terms, and the successful introduction of the club’s first Junior Championships. Through leadership, inclusion and community connection, Wahgunyah Primary School has created a positive tennis culture, one that not only teaches skills, but strengthens its regional community.