Could this alternative classroom reduce students' risk of suspension?
The Y NSW's Alternative Suspension program offers a supportive environment for high school students who have been repeatedly suspended, helping them develop social and emotional skills. Instead of isolation, students engage in therapeutic activities that address the root causes of their behavior. The program has shown promise in re-engaging students and is being considered for expansion across New South Wales.
- ▪The Alternative Suspension program operates in a small classroom setting at The Y in Broken Hill, focusing on emotional regulation and behavior strategies.
- ▪Students participate in activities like board games to build communication, impulse control, and conflict management skills.
- ▪The program has served 520 students across four locations in NSW between February 2023 and December 2025.
- ▪Referrals come from schools or parents, but participation is voluntary and relies on strong relationships with youth workers.
- ▪The Y NSW is advocating for statewide expansion of the program due to its early success.
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Alternative Suspension breaks cycle for repeatedly suspended studentsBy Kristina RosengrenABC Broken HillTopic:Education12m ago12 minutes agoFri 1 May 2026 at 8:54pmResearch shows school suspensions result in a range of adverse consequences. (ABC News: Sharon Gordon)In short:A program by The Y NSW is helping suspended high school students re-engage with education.Alternative Suspension aims to turn school exclusion into a positive opportunity to help students learn coping skills and behaviour strategies.What's next?The Y NSW is lobbying for the program to be expanded across the state.abc.net.au/news/alternative-suspension-solution-support-for-students-nsw/106537090Link copiedShareShare articleThere is a small blue room at The Y in Broken Hill with a handful of desks, a whiteboard and…
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