Encouraging positive change, Connection and Engagement
Fresh Start is a Department of Education initiative that caters for high school students who are on a suspension longer than 4 days from public schools supported by the Education offices of Miranda, Arncliffe, Riverwood and some schools from Chullora.
The program is situated and operates in Mortdale at the Carinya campus. Entry is via Judd Street pedestrian entrance next to Ausgrid depot Oatley. Students attend the program from 9am to 11:30am. The program is staffed by a Head Teacher and a School Learning Support Officer.
Suspension from school is a significant event and provides an opportunity for all involved to develop appropriate strategies to manage issues of concern. The centre is focused on providing a “Fresh Start” for students to reengage with their school community. This involves exploring strategies and approaches that will engage all in positive change.
Fresh Start supports students to re-engage with learning and complete schoolwork set by their home school. This may include catching up with work, assessments and learning support for specific areas of difficulty.
Fresh Start has a focus on improving student behaviour and emotion regulation. Students will have opportunity to investigate a range of approaches that will assist them reengage with their school. This includes behaviour management strategies, positive social skills, emotion regulation techniques and helpful wellbeing strategies.
Fresh Start supports older students a chance to review their school and learning goals including career pathways and skills that may assist in post school environments. Staff can work with the school’s careers advisors to increase awareness of educational and career opportunities.
Fresh Start have regular contact with the students' home school, maintaining connection with support staff, providing feedback to school and parents regarding progress and transition back to school.
