Key College – Chapel School and Step Up, Merrylands

Key College – Chapel School, an additional campus of our first school, brings to life our vision to expand our alternative education model that meets the unique needs of every student.

Established in 2004, Key College – Chapel School is a coeducational specialist school supporting students in Years 9-12.

Located within a heritage-listed site, the campus provides a safe and inclusive learning environment for young people who have disengaged or at risk of disengaging from mainstream education.

The dedicated team of educators is committed to equipping students with the knowledge, skills and confidence needed to pursue their Record of School Achievement (RoSA) or transition into further education, training or employment.

As a Special Assistance School, Key College – Chapel School takes pride in its innovative and student-centred approach. It empowers learners who have previously struggled to find their place in traditional educational settings, offering them a renewed opportunity to thrive.

Within a nurturing and supportive environment, students are encouraged to re-engage with their education and realise their potential.

“I have pretty high hopes for my future plans” – Harley*, Key College – Chapel School student

In addition to the guidance provided by the school manager and teaching staff, student wellbeing is holistically supported by a multidisciplinary team comprising a provisional psychologist, school counsellor, student support youth worker and, where appropriate, a First Nations student support youth worker.

Youth Off The Streets' unique education model

Youth Off The Streets' student wellbeing programs

Step Up Program: Years 11-12

The Step Up Program is purposefully designed to support young people facing disadvantage or other barriers to achieving their senior school goals, including the attainment of their Higher School Certificate (HSC), Vocational Education and Training (VET) courses and Registered Training Organisation (RTO) certificates in preparation for life beyond school.

With a strong emphasis on holistic development, Step Up encourages students to build community and life skills through volunteering and access to accredited vocational training. This integrated approach has demonstrated a positive impact on school attendance and significantly improved graduation outcomes.

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Annual school report 2024

Key College – Chapel School location

Key College – Chapel School is located at 102 Kenyons Road, Merrylands, NSW 2160.

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Key College - Chapel School

(02) 9721 5707

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Email

chapelschoolinfo@youthoffthestreets.com.au

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Step Up Program (Stage 6)

0481 463 834

Language of resilience: Supporting students’ wellbeing

“I feel calmer,” says one student of her therapy sessions. “I can manage my stress and anger better and have better social skills.”

Harley's* story: Finding her place

With the freedom to explore her interests and develop real-world skills, Harley has reconnected with learning and is building a future on her own terms.

Noah's* story: Supported to succeed

Once struggling with low attendance at his mainstream school, Noah is now thriving with personalised support at a Youth Off The Streets independent high school.

A word from the school manager

“Our flexible education program re-engages disconnected young people by providing a place of belonging where wellbeing is prioritised.

“Students find opportunities for learning, face challenges that promote skills development, and receive support from the Chapel Staff to build self-esteem and mentor personal growth, empowering them to establish personal and social capital.”

Deidre Williams, School Manager
Key College – Chapel School

A word from the principal

“At Youth Off The Streets, we put students’ wellbeing at the forefront of everything we do…We have the autonomy and expertise to adjust and modify when we need to.”

John Martin, Principal
Youth Off The Streets – North Cluster schools