Alternative Education in Albany’s Great Southern
In WA’s Great Southern, Youth Futures Albany Community School offers young people a fresh start through alternative education in Albany. Designed for students who’ve struggled in mainstream settings, the school provides an alternative, trauma-informed education and relationship-driven approach to learning.
Leadership Grounded in Community
Led by Head of School Steve Sharp, the former Albany Principal of Alta-1 and long-time Albany local, the school prioritises emotional wellbeing and connection before academic achievement.
“Life is more important than school, and here, we make space for both,” Steve says.
A Supportive Learning Environment
At Youth Futures Albany, learning is self-paced and fully supported. Students are met where they’re at, with a focus on recovery, trust, and growth. The school has a close and dedicated team including a youth worker, teachers, and support staff who work together to provide youth education support in WA, helping each student rebuild confidence and connection.
Commitment From Students and Families
Students travel from across the region, including Mount Barker and Denmark, with some spending up to two hours a day getting to and from school with long bus trip. This commitment speaks volumes about the sense of belonging and value they find in this supportive learning environment.
“Students choose to be here. That belonging and connection are powerful,” Steve says.
Building Relationships Through Daily Life
At Youth Futures Albany, school slows down. Space is made for building safe and positive relationships. A strong sense of country and community is woven into daily life. Several times a week, students cook shared lunches, everyone eats together, building relationships and trust around the table.
Positive Outcomes for Disengaged Students
This culture of care is making a real impact. Some students have gone from zero attendance to full participation. Word is spreading, referrals now come from schools, services, and, most meaningfully, other families and young people who are seeking a school for disengaged students.
“People tell us they’ve heard we really care that our staff are genuine and the right people for the job,” says Steve.
A Safe and Close-Knit School Environment
The school’s small size and close-knit environment mean issues like bullying and truancy are rare. Staff know their students well and can respond quickly when challenges arise.
“We ask students who they are and what they can do, not what they can’t do,” Steve explains. “It’s a different lens that allows them a fresh start to heal and grow.”
Regional WA Alternative Schooling for the Future
As demand for regional WA alternative schooling continues to grow, Youth Futures Albany Community School remains a vital place of healing, learning, and hope, where students are not just educated, but valued as people, and supported to build brighter futures.
“I’m so grateful for the above-and-beyond care my daughter has received at YF Albany School. The staff’s patience, adaptability, and creative ways of keeping her engaged means so much to our family.” – MT, parent