The minister used the visit to Dubbo College Delroy Campus to speak with years 9 and 10 students about their involvement in the program, which aims to boost outcomes for young Aboriginal men by using rugby league to engage them in their studies.

Principal Stacey Exner said in the 10 weeks the school had hosted the program, attendance by students involved had increased by 5 per cent.

"It's a big increase in such a short time," she said.

"Suspensions have also halved over the past couple of years, and that's continued.

"We've noticed increased engagement in the classroom, an improved attitude to learning and greater self-esteem.

"One boy, he was averaging one day a week attendance and for the past 10 weeks he's been here five days a week."

Ms Exner said the program would continue at Senior Campus next year and ongoing discussions were taking place about post-school options.

Clontarf Foundation community partnerships manager Brendan Maher said education, leadership, employment, health and wellbeing and, of course, rugby league, were cornerstones of the program.

"To be a Clontarf boy you have to have a go at school," he said.

Boys were encouraged to become leaders, beginning with speaking at school assemblies, he said.

The program also encouraged physical activity and healthy eating. Participants were assisted with placement into jobs or post-school education after year 12.

Clontarf participant Zaiden Britt described Clontarf as "the best thing that's ever happened to the school".

The year 10 CHS rugby league representative, who hoped to study sports science at university, said he and other students enjoyed the program and knew the discipline they were developing would be something they could apply to other aspects of their lives.

"It helps the boys get their work done, and getting to class on time," he said.

"And if someone mucks up, there's a ten push-up rule."

Meanwhile, Mr Piccoli urged the boys to tell their friends how the program had been a benefit to them and to urge them to join in too.

"You've got to understand the opportunities education gives you, and that starts by turning up to school," he said.

"Your family and school and community needs you to be as good as you can be."