The Future of CaRE Schools in WA

CaRE Schools: Safe, Flexible Education Pathways

In our latest Thought Leadership Series, Paul Jones, Principal at Youth Futures, sat down with Chris Massey, Executive Director of AISWA, to talk about the vital role and bright future of CaRE schools in WA.

Chris reflected on how far alternative education CaRE schools have come. Once seen as “last resort” settings, they are now safe, flexible places where many young people find the youth education support they need.

“For some students, just turning up is a success. For others, it’s staying in class, completing certificates, or finding a pathway into work or TAFE,” he said.

Paul added,

“We need people to see CaRE schools not as places to ‘fix’ students before sending them back to mainstream, but as legitimate pathways in their own right.”

Educators Committed to Trauma-Informed Practice

Both leaders spoke about the dedication of CaRE school staff, educators who bring patience, flexibility, and trauma-informed education practice. These teams don’t just teach—they care for the whole person, combining learning with wellbeing and life skills.

Celebrating Success at the AISWA CaRE Schools Conference

They also celebrated the success of the recent AISWA CaRE Schools Conference at All Saints’ College, Bull Creek. More than 280 participants from 14 schools gathered under the theme “Empowering Every Educator. Supporting Every Learner” to share ideas, strategies, and hope. The energy and connections made throughout the day showed just how much CaRE schools matter. Importantly, all Youth Futures education staff were there, reflecting our commitment to learning, collaboration, and standing alongside at-risk youth.

Strengthening Collaboration and Student Voice

Looking ahead, Paul and Chris agreed on the need to reduce stigma and strengthen collaboration, both with mainstream schools and between CaRE schools themselves. Chris observed,

“If a young person is looking for something faith-based or tied to a specific trade, there should be room to move across schools to find the right fit.”

They also championed student voice, with Chris seeing potential in a sector-wide CaRE student group:

“We need to hear directly from students. Their voices are the strongest evidence for why these schools matter.”

Youth Futures Leading in CaRE Education

With demand growing and key government reviews underway, Youth Futures is proud to be at the forefront of CaRE education in Western Australia, creating places where young people feel safe, supported, and ready to thrive.