What began as a small pilot program has quickly become one of Prahran Place’s most important initiatives, helping young people reconnect with others, rebuild confidence through learning and, where appropriate, take positive steps back into education.
Our online programs support young people aged 7 to 18 who are home educated or who have disengaged from mainstream schooling. Many have experienced anxiety, bullying, trauma or other personal circumstances that have made attending school difficult. Families often tell us there are very few services available once a young person leaves the school system and the support that comes with it.
We recognised this gap and decided to do something about it.
Our goal has never been to replace school. It is to reconnect young people with other young people, encourage creativity, build confidence and create a sense of belonging in a relaxed and supportive environment. There is no pressure to perform and no expectation to turn cameras on. Sometimes, simply joining a session is a significant first step.
Over the past year we have offered a growing range of affordable online programs including art, animation, creative writing, storytelling, sewing, leadership, wellbeing and many other creative activities. Rather than employing traditional classroom teachers, we engage artists, writers and professionals who enjoy sharing their skills in an informal and encouraging way.
Although this program began as a pilot, we have learned a tremendous amount in a short time and continue to refine and improve it through feedback from participants and their families. The response has exceeded our expectations.
One of the biggest surprises has been the reach of the program. What started as a local initiative now includes young people from across Australia. In many ways, it has expanded the traditional idea of what a neighbourhood house can be. Technology has allowed us to connect young people well beyond our local community, bringing together participants who may otherwise never have met.
This year we are taking another exciting step by piloting an online cultural exchange with students from Vishwa Vidyapeeth School in India. Young people aged 13 and 14 will meet online to share stories about their daily lives, explore each other’s cultures and build friendships across continents. It is a simple idea that encourages curiosity, understanding and connection while showing that learning can happen well beyond the classroom.
We know we are stretching our resources to deliver these programs, but we also know they are making a difference. There are still very few organisations reaching out to this group of young people, and we are proud to be making the effort.
This program continues to evolve, but one thing remains constant: every young person deserves opportunities to connect with others, discover a love of learning and find a place where they belong.
