A program piloted on the Central Coast and in Western Sydney this year by the Y NSW (formerly YMCA) has had a positive impact on young people who are suspended or at risk of being suspended from school but could be at risk due to lack of funding.
Funding to expand the program ends in June 2024 and the Y is seeking partnerships to continue ─ and hopefully expand ─ the life-changing program to further regions across the state.
“Suspensions are used as a disciplinary practice in schools and can lead to far-reaching consequences such as reduced chances of completing education, reduced employment opportunities and increased risk of incarceration,” a spokesperson said.
“This program addresses educational disengagement and the underlying causes, establishes ongoing support pathways and plans successful return to school.”
The spokesperson said 81 per cent of students in the pilot completed the program, with 84 per cent of participants learning new coping, anger management and communication skills as a result.
“Further, 91 per cent of participants returned to school following completion,” she said.
Of the Central Coast participants, 53 per cent of participants live in single-parent homes, 41 per cent are not in contact with their mothers and 23 per cent identify as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander.
Youth workers support participants in small groups and work with parents and teachers to develop case plans for a smooth transition back into mainstream education or alternative training pathways.
Wraparound support includes personal development workshops, individual assistance and team skills activities.
Youth workers support students to create an action plan and establish behavioural commitments, while identifying additional support they might require from their school and family.
Executive Leader of Purpose and Impact at the Y NSW, Louisa McKay, said the organisation had experienced strong demand for the alternative suspension program in the first half of the pilot period.
“The … program transforms the suspension period away from school into a positive experience by fostering personal development and autonomy,” she said.
“In a safe and inclusive environment, participants are supported by trained youth workers and human service professionals to explore the root cause of the behaviour that triggered their referral to the program, and focus on personal development including self-worth, goal-setting and resilience.
“During the first 18 weeks, the program received 64 referrals of young people aged between 12 and 18, 72 per cent of schools cited an improvement in participants’ behaviour as a direct result of the program and our youth workers have had glowing reports from principals and carers alike.”
While the program is currently funded by the Australian Government Department of Social Services, funding will be sought to continue and expand it in NSW.
For more information visit www.ymcansw.org.au
Terry Collins