“Key College didn’t just give me an inclusive space, it opened doors that I never thought were possible,” said Alice* in her graduation speech.
“The staff truly care about the students, not just as learners, but as individuals with potential. They’ve shown me what’s possible when you’re in an environment that believes in your abilities.”
Youth Off The Streets’ six accredited and independent high schools offer an alternative for young people who have become disconnected from mainstream education or are at risk of disengaging from school.
Our schools’ success is consistent with a nationwide trend towards special assistance schools (SAS) – defined as schools that ‘primarily cater for students with social, emotional or behavioural difficulties’ – with national enrolments in SAS almost tripling between 2014 and 2022 and the number of new schools and campuses doubling.
In addition to complying with Australian curriculum and NSW Education Standards, our high schools – Craig Davis College, EDEN College, Key College – Chapel School Merrylands, Key College Redfern, Bowen College and The Lakes College – also respond to the specific needs, interests and talents of our students.
With 98 per cent of the students in our schools impacted by domestic, family and sexual violence (DFSV), these needs include a sense of safety, belonging and wellbeing. In addition to accessing psychology and counselling services, youth workers and a range of wellbeing initiatives, students also participate in our Power Within Program, which supports young people in recognising the cycle of intimate partner and family violence.
Last year alone, over 140 students received ongoing DFSV support from our specialist staff and 35 formal or informal safety plans were completed in collaboration with students.
In 2024, more students than ever before were enrolled at Key College, with fourteen young people graduating this year.
“This group of young people have truly been so special,” said School Manager Jo Nicholson at the recent graduation ceremony. “The way you have all embraced this program, the way you have given your all to every opportunity that has come your way.”
As a Registered Training Organisation (RTO), Youth Off The Streets’ schools also continue to deliver several nationally accredited vocational education and training (VET) courses to our students, with young people pursuing accreditation in everything from barista training, construction, small business skills and youth justice work.
Additionally, several young people completed the Duke of Edinburgh International Award – a program for students across the country that promotes physical fitness, personal growth and community services – culminating in a three-day trip to Lady Musgrave Island, where practical activities like cooking, setting up camp and snorkeling were embraced by our students.
At the recent Key College graduation ceremony, Jo also highlighted the personal growth she has seen in her students.
“The way you have looked after each other, the way you have connected with the staff,” she said. “The way that you have been mentioned at every single event that we go to as stand out young people, and people who represent Key College and Youth Off The Streets beautifully.”
“It’s truly incredible, and we are so proud of you.”
In her graduation speech, Alice also reflected on the personal growth she experienced alongside her academic achievements.
“Looking back, I realise that my time at Key College hasn’t just changed what I can achieve, it changed how I see myself,” she said.
“I’ve learned to see my own potential. I belong in places where I can thrive, and where I can carry forward the values of respect and inclusion that I’ve experienced.”
*name has been changed to protect the identity of the young person.