Frequently Asked Questions
Our FAQ section is your go-to resource for quick information about admissions, support service fees and campus life.
Whether you’re a prospective parent, student or just curious, we’ve made it easy to find what you need.
We understand that selecting the right school is an important decision and you may have questions along the way.
Our FAQ section provides clear, concise answers to the most common enquiries about admissions, support services, fees and student life.
If you require further assistance or cannot find the information you need, please contact our team – we’re here to help.
General enquiries can be sent to schoolsinfo@youthoffthestreets.com.au. Specific school enquiries can be sent to the addresses found on each school’s page (the full list of schools can be found here).
What is the difference between Youth Off The Streets Special Assistance Schools and mainstream schools?
Youth Off The Streets’ Special Assistance Schools are designed for young people who may not have felt safe, successful or understood in mainstream education. We recognise that mainstream school does not work for everyone, so we approach education differently.
Key differences include:
- Small class sizes (maximum of 13 students) to build trust and provide individual attention.
- Teaching and learning that looks different – flexible, hands-on, relational and responsive to each young person’s needs, strengths and interests.
- Individualised learning plans, developed with each student and, where appropriate, their family or caregivers.
- A strong web of support, including youth workers, counsellors/psychologists, and access to additional Youth Off The Streets services such as casework, housing, drug and alcohol support, and First Nations Services.
- Flexible pathways, including non-ATAR HSC programs, vocational training and real-world preparation.
- No fees, no uniforms, and all food and materials provided, so students can simply come as they are.
Guided by The Youth Off The Streets Model of Education, our schools are healing-centred communities. Every adult contributes to a relational environment that promotes safety, belonging, growth and hope.
We work alongside young people at their pace, honouring their story and supporting the future they choose.
Read more: Youth Off The Streets Model of Education
We are a member of Independent Schools NSW, a community that embraces diverse cultures, backgrounds, learning needs and perspectives.
How do I enrol my child?
You can contact your preferred school directly by phone or email (individual schools are listed here).
We’ll talk with you about your child’s needs and guide you through the enrolment process.
This may include a school tour, a conversation about supports and completing the required enrolment forms. We’re here to make the process as smooth as possible.
What are your school fees?
There are no fees to attend any Youth Off The Streets school. Our schools are fully accessible and we are committed to removing financial barriers so that every young person can engage in their learning and feel supported.
Do students need to wear a uniform?
We simply ask that students dress in a way that is comfortable, respectful and safe for learning. In some activities or workshops, protective footwear or clothing may be needed, and we’ll let students know in advance.
Do you enrol students in Year 7 or 8?
While we are unable to enrol students in Years 7 or 8, we are always happy to discuss future enrolment options or provide guidance on alternative pathways.
Can my child complete their HSC or receive an ATAR at your schools?
Yes. If a student is interested in pursuing an ATAR, we look at this on an individual basis. The school manager will meet with the student to discuss whether an ATAR pattern of study is suitable and whether we can support it within our program.
Students at Youth Off The Streets schools can complete a non-ATAR HSC pathway at Craig Davis College, EDEN College, and through the Step Up Program at Key College – Chapel School.
Our focus is on ensuring the learning pathway is achievable, meaningful and aligned to the young person’s goals.
What support services are available for students?
Every Youth Off The Streets school exists within a strong network of care. Each school has a dedicated support team, which may include student support youth workers, a school psychologist or counsellor, domestic and family violence support specialist and a First Nations student support youth worker.
We work together with families and the young person to make sure support is connected and consistent. When needed, we can also link students with other Youth Off The Streets services – such as casework, housing, drug and alcohol counselling and First Nations services – as well as external community supports.
We think of this network as a ‘therapeutic web of support’ in which young people are surrounded by caring adults who work together to create a safe, relational and empowering learning environment.
What does my child need for school?
Your child can simply come as they are.
We’re just glad to see them turn up, feeling safe and learning in a space that supports them.
What is the phone policy?
We do this to create a safe, focused and relational learning environment. Without phones, students are better able to connect with each other, stay present in learning, and reduce distractions or stress that can come from social media and messages during the day.
How many students are in each class?
Does it matter if my child has missed a lot of schooling?
We create an individualised learning plan with each student – and with parents or carers where appropriate – so we can support their literacy, numeracy, confidence and engagement at a pace that feels achievable.
Our focus is on growth, not on what they’ve missed or how long they’ve been away from school.
What subjects do you offer in Year 11 and 12?
Subjects vary slightly at each school and from year to year, based on student interest and class size.
Currently, our schools offer a selection from the following:
- English Studies
- Numeracy
- Investigating Science
- Aboriginal Studies
- Community and Family Studies (CAFS)
- Sport, Lifestyle and Recreation (SLR)
- Visual Design (CEC)
- Work Studies (CEC)
- Hospitality (VET)
- Retail (VET)
- Food Technology
We work with each student to select subjects that match their goals, strengths and learning pathway.
Do you offer vocational education or alternative pathways?
Students may also be able to take part in School-Based Apprenticeships and Traineeships (SBATs).
We also offer flexible HSC pathways, including modified and non-ATAR programs. Where appropriate, students can work toward a portfolio of learning and skills that supports future employment, training or further study.
We work with each young person to design a pathway that aligns with their goals, interests and readiness.
What is the SOLAR Program?
The SOLAR Program, which offered at EDEN College in Macquarie Fields, is a flexible learning pathway for young people who are not currently able to attend school full time.
It is designed for students who may be experiencing homelessness, significant mental or physical health challenges, or who are socially isolated and need a different way to stay connected to learning.
SOLAR combines:
- Two days of remote learning, supported by teachers and youth workers
- Three days of face-to-face learning on campus, when the young person is ready
Read more: EDEN College, Macquarie Fields
The goal of SOLAR is to provide a gradual, supported transition back into face-to-face schooling. It allows learning to continue during difficult circumstances, while remaining connected to our relational, trauma-informed school community.
