The Founder:


Ms Gab McIntosh OAM

As a teacher in government high schools and TAFE, a home tutor for Aboriginal students and a Youth Worker for the Blacktown City Council, Ms McIntosh witnessed the difficulties faced by some adolecesents fitting into mainstream schooling. Without even a basic education, the opportunities available to these young people were limited, leaving them exposed and vulnerable to the influences of drugs, alcohol and crime in an area of high unemployment and social disadvantage.
 
Without assistance from either the Federal or State Government, Ms McIntosh opened her first school in February 1996 in makeshift premises in Rooty Hill, with only one other person - another volunteer - on a walking stick.
 
In late 1997, the first Youth College opened at the Blacktown PCYC, followed by Colleges at Bidwill PCYC and Penrith PCYC. Blacktown & Penrith have since been amalgamated with Bidwill making for 72 students at the main campus at Bidwill.
 
Many students arrive without basic skills. To overcome the ‘gap’ in their education, the Colleges provide one-on-one coaching in reading, writing and mathematics. While the Colleges follow a NSW Board of Studies curriculum, textbooks and activities are pitched at students’ interests - for example, go-karting as a Design and Technology elective.  The current Principal is Anne Ridgway. 

Over the past 10 years, over 200 adolescents - 40% from indigenous backgrounds - have attended the Youth Colleges. 120 students have gained their School Certificate. Of these, the vast majority would not have done so at their regular school. Four students have gained places in selective high schools for years 11 and 12. About 65% of students are in employment within a few months of graduating. As most students had poor references from their previous school, their time at the Youth Colleges is crucial to earning a good reference and using that to secure a job.
 
We are always looking for volunteers for the canteen and for reading and writing with the kids.