Transforming School Suspensions into Re-engagement
When a young person is suspended from school, unsupervised time off can lead to deeper academic disengagement and risk. The Y NSW’s Alternative Suspension program turns this crisis into an opportunity, providing a safe, structured space where students build emotional resilience, keep up with schoolwork, and prepare for a successful return to the classroom.
Why Alternative Suspension Matters
The Challenge
An out-of-school suspension is often a warning sign that a student is struggling with underlying issues – stress, mental health challenges, family disruption, or behavioural hurdles. Without structured support during suspension, students frequently fall behind academically and feel further alienated from their education.
The Y NSW Solution
Alternative Suspension bridges the gap between home and school. Operating outside the school environment in a supportive, non-judgmental space, our trained youth workers guide students through a tailored program focused on personal accountability, self-regulation, and academic continuity.
Core Program Pillars
Academic Support
Dedicated daily time spent completing assigned schoolwork, ensuring students don’t fall behind their peers while away from school.
Social-Emotional Skill Building
Group workshops focusing on communication, conflict resolution, emotional regulation, and self-esteem.
1-on-1 Youth Mentoring
Personalised coaching with dedicated youth workers to address the root causes of disengagement and establish positive goals.
Successful Re-entry
A structured plan co-developed with the school, student, and parents to ensure a smooth, lasting transition back to school.
Our Impact
of students completed Alternative Suspension
Sample: 664 participants at three-month follow up (2023–2026)
received no further suspensions since attending Alternative Suspension
Sample: 110 participants at three-month follow up (2024–2026)
of attendees showed improvement regarding a ‘change in overall situation’
Sample: 110 participants at three-month follow up (2024–2026)
reduction in physical violence since attending Alternative Suspension
Sample: 228 participants at three-month follow up (2023–2026)
of attendees showed improvement in ‘engagement toward academics’
Sample: 110 participants at three-month follow up (2024–2026)
reduction in verbal abuse since attending Alternative Suspension
Sample: 228 participants at three-month follow up (2023–2026)
improvement in main presenting behaviour
Sample: 110 participants at three-month follow up (2024–2026)
reduction in bullying since attending Alternative Suspension
Sample: 228 participants at three-month follow up (2023–2026)
reduction in disruptive behaviours since attending Alternative Suspension
Sample: 228 participants at three-month follow up (2023–2026)
Alternative Suspension helps to:
Reduce risk factors linked to offending
Keep young people connected to pro-social supports
Interrupt escalation into justice involvement
Our Recommendation
The Y NSW recommends that the NSW Government expand access to the Alternative Suspension program across NSW, ensuring that young people at risk of disengagement or suspension can access timely, community-based support.
Information for Schools & Educators
We work in close partnership with primary and secondary schools across NSW to deliver measurable behavioural and educational outcomes.
Program Quick Facts
Young people aged 12–17 experiencing or at risk of out-of-school suspension.
Typically 3 to 15 days, tailored to individual student needs and school requirements.
Free for participating students and families.
Thank You to Our Partners
Contact the Alternative Suspension Team
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