The Forest High School has started New South Wales’ first student-run op shop, giving teenagers a chance to manage retail operations from the classroom.
NSW’s First Classroom Op Shop, Run By Students
In a first for New South Wales, The Forest High School has launched an op shop inside a classroom—fully run by students and stocked through a partnership with Lifeline.
The Forest High School’s op shop, Forest Fashion, opened in Term 1 as a hands-on learning project to teach students retail and business skills. In partnership with Lifeline Northern Beaches, all clothing is donated and sold for under $5, with profits split between the school and the charity to support mental health and school programs.
Learning by Doing
Students run the shop’s daily operations, sorting clothes, handling sales, and making key decisions—while applying skills from business classes. Teachers guide the setup, but students take the lead.
The program gives students real business experience on campus, building skills in teamwork, budgeting, customer service, and communication.
A Space with Purpose
Beyond retail training, the space has become a popular lunchtime hangout. Students describe it as calm, welcoming and inclusive. It’s open a few times each week during the school day, giving everyone a chance to browse, chat or help out.
Teachers say the shop has boosted student confidence and connection. Affordable pricing reduces stigma around second-hand clothing and promotes sustainability.
Community Impact
The shop is also helping build a stronger sense of community inside and outside the school. Clothes are donated by Lifeline, and families have begun contributing as well. All unsold clothing is returned to Lifeline, ensuring nothing goes to waste.
Funds raised go directly back into school programs or to Lifeline’s mental health work. This gives students a deeper understanding of how their actions contribute to wider community support, while making them feel proud of their efforts.
With student interest growing, the school says there are plans to expand the concept and involve more year levels over time.
Published 17-April-2025
