School principal Stuart Edwards said the Rotary junior community award would help to prepare grade 6 pupils for secondary school and adult life.

"It's so they are able to take risks and try new things while being supported by their family at school."

Mr Edwards said the program meant that when students came across something they were not familiar with at secondary school, they were prepared to deal with it.

Pupils Keely, Rylee and Lisa are among those taking part in this year's program.

Keely said it would help her when she went to secondary school. "You do lots of things to help out the community."

Lisa said she had learnt how to cook custard tarts, chocolate eclairs and muffins. She had been to a council meeting, attended the Anzac Day dawn service at the Boronia RSL, and learnt to play football.

"It's a little hard managing your time, but you always find a way to do it."

Rylee has taken up art classes and helped at a community meals night. "It's been really fun, and a good opportunity to learn new stuff. I've become more confident."