Offering an alternative to mainstream education, Y Whittlesea has officially opened its independent school.
On November 21, the school was inaugurated by Victorian Governor Margaret Gardner, who said the new institute was an educational “innovation”.
Operating since July, the school has recorded more than 40 enrolments consisting of young people aged 15 years and over who have disengaged from traditional school models.
Located in Epping, the Y Community School is now aiming to “revolutionise education” for these students, who have previously struggled in conventional academic settings.
Campus principal Sarah Abbott said that by fostering a supportive environment with a personalised curriculum, the school reignites a passion for learning and equips students with skills for both personal and professional success.
“As a school, we’ve got unconditional positive regard for everybody that comes through the door,” she said.
“We’ve got such a huge mix of abilities, stories and backgrounds but all our young people connect with each other because they know they’ve had difficulties elsewhere.”
The school’s curriculum is designed to cater to diverse learning needs, with personalised plans that spark “curiosity and passion”.
At the opening ceremony on Thursday, a number of students spoke about their experiences with this new model.
For 15-year-old Hazel, as someone who had no “hope for the future in her previous school”, the Y has been life-changing.
“This has given me a whole new window into life and a [shot] at a future,” she said.
“I’m here pushing myself and getting out there – I love it.”
Prealene Khera
