School Retention

Youth Pathways

Through the Youth Pathways program, personalised assistance is provided to Secondary Students aged 13 to 19 years identified as being at risk of not completing their schooling. The program's approach is to assist with personal issues and develop motivation and a sense of direction in life.

These young people often experience a combination of educational, social and personal barriers.  The Youth Pathways program aims to re-engage young people with education, however it also supports young people to make a successful transition from school to further education, training, employment and participation in the community.

Youth Pathways is delivered in several locations throughout the region, servicing over 100 participants and providing them with ongoing mentoring and support.

Funding & Locations

Funded by: Australian Government Department Education, Science & Training. 
Locations: Canowindra, Condobolin, Cowra, Forbes, Lake Cargelligo, Molong, Parkes, Quandialla, Tottenham, Trundle, Tullamore, Tullabigeal, West Wyalong and Yeoval.

Out There Learning

The Out There Learning program also addresses the high risk of school students in rural and remote areas not completing their secondary school education, offering an intensive program of weekly visits by Centacare youth workers to participating schools. During the six month engagement, participating students devise, plan and implement a hands-on community service project together which helps them to understand that through serving their community they are of value, can take ownership of their personal and group achievements and can see how they can build on this positive experience by staying at school.

Funding & Locations

Funded by: Social Ventures Australia
Locations: Forbes and Peak Hill.