Second-Chance School Warakirri College Opens its Doors in Campbelltown for Disadvantaged Students

An MTC initiative, Warakirri College is an independent high school catering to disadvantaged young people aged 15 to 22.  The school offers an alternative form of learning to students who have disconnected from mainstream education or did not quite fit into a traditional school environment.

With no school uniforms, no school fees and free food for those who haven’t eaten, the college hopes to help students build confidence, manage other challenges in their life and work towards their own life and career goals.

“I believe the new Warakirri College campus will be a valuable addition to the Campbelltown community, helping disconnected young people achieve a better future” says Warakirri College Principal, Carolyn Blanden.

With campuses already in Blacktown and Fairfield, Ms Blanden goes on to explain how Warakirri College will make a difference to the young people in the Campbelltown region, “These students struggle in mainstream schools, due to their long absences as a result of numerous social issues or because they have mental health challenges or come from complex family backgrounds. We break down the barriers that prevents students from going to school so that they can  complete the Year10 RoSA or a HSC and ATAR.”

“Although our students are street-wise,” Ms Blanden goes on to say, “they haven’t had the opportunities that most kids have had. We are a family here at Warakirri so we take the students on excursions or go on bushwalks and camps to inspire and engage them. I feel very privileged to be able to help these young people get their lives back on track and enjoy the opportunities that come from completing their schooling”.

Former Warakirri graduate Adriana spoke of what sets Warakirri College apart, “Warakirri College is different to mainstream school as the environment is more relaxed and students are treated like adults.”

“Everyone is very supportive and interactive. It’s a great place to learn,” adds Adriana

For more information about Warakirri College please contact 02 9914 3250 or visit our website www.warakirricollege.nsw.edu.au.

About Warakirri College

Warakirri College is an independent high school for young people aged 15–22 completing their Year 10 and Higher School Certificate. Students have disconnected from mainstream schools due to peer relations difficulties like bullying or gender issues, mental health challenges such as anxiety or depression, complex family backgrounds, refugee experience or parenthood. 

Warakirri is an independent high school with campuses at Fairfield and Blacktown. As a social impact initiative of MTC Australia, students do not pay fees and are provided with textbooks, food and other resources. Graduates typically progress to University, TAFE, private colleges and employment. 

About MTC Australia

MTC is the social enterprise that gives people the inspiration, capability and opportunity to create a fulfilling life. We deliver high impact employment, training and youth programs that help more than 15,000 people every year to gain skills for employment and entrepreneurship, build self-worth, and enable possibilities for transformative change.