With the success of the time out program running within the Mid Mountains Youth Centre last year the alternative learning school is now operating from the youth centre in Lawson. This unique program offers young people aged between the ages of 12 -16 yrs of age an alternative to the rigidity and formal curriculums of other High Schools. Accredited teachers including teacher’s aides and volunteers deliver subjects relevant to the school certificate. The Lawson school is a satellite campus of the Blacktown Youth College Bidwill, with another new school also operating from Broken Hill.

After delivering outreach programs within local high schools Brad Ellis recognized an ever growing need in the Blue Mountains for specialized educational facilities for young people who are experiencing difficulties within formal classroom environments. Brad is the coordinator of the program and has recently completed a social sciences degree, taught at TAFE and delivered many specialised programs with over 25 years of experience in working with adolescents.

The Blue Mountains Blacktown Youth College will be operating from Mondays to Thursdays within regular school terms from 9.30am to 2.30pm. The students are expected to participate in Maths, English, Science, History, Geography, Art, living skills and field programs. The difference within curriculums, unique from other schools, is the non-exam approach the school offers. This entails a ‘no pressure’ classroom style with an accent on motivation, with a one to one tutor where extra assistance is needed. There is no cost to participate or to enrol. Places are strictly limited and numbers are filling fast. Please phone Brad Ellis Co-ordinator of the Lawson BYC on 4759 1012.
Email mmycyfg@bigpond.net.au