Back to our programmes
Alternative Education
Mainstream schooling doesn’t suit everyone. Our Alternative Education programme is all about firstly creating a place of belonging and safety, so that meaningful learning can take place in a way that works for each student.
Tutors work one-on-one with students to cover standard curriculum subjects as well as facilitating a range of hands-on, adventure-based learning opportunities that build confidence and skills to equip students as they transition to employment or further education.
We offer our Alternative Education programme in partnership with Kaipara College and all our students are enrolled through the college.
Outwest Youth provided amazing support for my son when he attended Alternative Education. They gave him confidence to make good decisions in his education and social life, by supporting him emotionally and mentally.
Amy Major, parentStories
Success Story: The Transformative Journey of Scott
Discover the inspiring journey of ‘Scott,’ a young man who overcame severe anxiety with the help of Outwest Youth Community Trust. Learn how our supportive community and Alternative Education program helped transform his life.…The Journey with 24-7 YouthWork: A Trek of Transformation
Embarking on a 10-day adventure, Year 10 students aren’t just traversing through rugged terrains on bikes, kayaks, and tramping boots—they’re navigating their way through the complexities of friendship, self-discovery, and personal growth. This excursion, aptly named ‘THE JOURNEY,’ is a cornerstone of…Bonding Over Baking: A Year of Growth and Friendship with Tui
“This year has been a great year for Tui (not her real name) and me. At times her friend would also join us for our sessions. We met each week on a Tuesday for 1.5 hours. Through our conversations, I discovered that…Cracking Good Fun: 24-7 YouthWork’s School-Wide Easter Scavenger Hunt
Keen to end the school term on a high note, our 24-7 team put their heads together with some innovative teachers and hatched a plan: an Easter Scavenger Hunt. Thanks to a generous donation of chocolate eggs from OWY, the stage was…Accelerating Youth Empowerment: How Outwest Youth Drives Success on the Road and Beyond
At Outwest Youth, we believe in giving young people the tools they need to navigate life—sometimes quite literally. We recently caught up with three young individuals who completed our Learner Licence course to hear about their experiences and the impact it has…
The Transformational Journey of Nikora, A Youth Mentoring Success Story
Nikora (not his real name) had always shown potential, but like many young people, he faced challenges that could either make or break his future. The key to unlocking his full potential was a strong mentoring relationship, a cornerstone initiative at Outwest…
Milestones and Mahi: Celebrating Alternative Education Graduations
Big moments deserve big recognition. That’s why graduations at Outwest Youth’s Alternative Education programme are not just a ceremony but a celebration of resilience, dedication, and hard-won victories. Our graduates have journeyed long, earning their NCEA Literacy and Numeracy credits, gaining invaluable…
From Struggles to Success: The Inspiring Journey of James
James (not his real name) was a Youth Service client for two years. When he first enrolled he had a complex array of mental health, family and anger issues which the school social worker was very concerned about. In addition, James struggled…
Breaking Through Anxiety: David’s Journey to Personal Growth and Success
“David (not his real name) suffered from anxiety and stopped attending school. He lost motivation and would stay at home and even lock himself in his bedroom to avoid seeing people who were trying to support him. He was enrolled in Alternative Education…
Beating the Odds: A Triumph on the Road to Adulthood
When life throws curveballs, it’s easy to strike out. But one of our Youth Service clients showed us what true resilience looks like. Despite a mountain of setbacks—from COVID to family issues and ID hurdles—this young Kiwi was laser-focused on one goal:…
