Findings from consultations with young people, stakeholders, volunteers and staff as part of LYS Strategic Plan 2023-2025 highlighted the debilitating impacts of an over-emphasis on academic success on young people, and the need to engage young people who are disengaging from mainstream education, LYS supports the development of 'Alternative Centres Of Education/Based Outside Of Mainstream Schools' as evidenced in a recent evaluation of Rethink Ireland's Education Fund (https://rethinkireland.ie/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Education-Fund-Evaluation-Results.pdf).
This model would provide a unique alternative environment for education for children and young people who have disengaged or are at risk of disengaging from mainstream education. It would incorporate a one-to-one and small group learning environment with wraparound support and outreach service. It would offer innovative and flexible online and blended learning for early school leavers. It would emphasise holistic, as well as academic development. Personalised and online modalities of intervention would be provided to each student based on their needs, interests and abilities. It would be accessible, city centre-based and rooted within the local community.
Support alternative centres of education with an equal emphasis on holistic and academic development, flexible and innovative delivery, small group methodologies and wrap around supports.
To ensure educational equity and inclusion.