Edu Space, a special assistance school based at Redcliffe Area Youth Space, has marked its first year supporting vulnerable young people through tailored education.
Background: Redcliffe’s Response to Educational Disengagement
Edu Space was established at Redcliffe Area Youth Space in response to years of evidence showing that mainstream education often failed the region’s most vulnerable students. Over 15 years of observations at RAYS highlighted the gap in available support, leading to the launch of Edu Space as a special assistance non-state school for students in Years 7 to 10.
The school provides free education and support to young people experiencing complex challenges, including trauma, disengagement, mental health issues, domestic violence, and youth justice involvement.
The Edu Space Approach: A Different Model of Schooling in Redcliffe
Edu Space delivers education aligned with the Australian Curriculum through a project-based, person-centred model. The approach is strongly informed by Paulo Freire’s Social Justice Pedagogy, focusing on restorative outcomes rather than punitive experiences.
The school maintains a maximum population of 30 students, with a high staff-to-student ratio of 1:4. The team includes four student and family wellbeing officers, two qualified teachers and access to frontline youth workers from RAYS.
Small class sizes and trauma-informed practices are at the core of the school’s design, allowing each student to engage through a structured continuum of Knowing, Growing, Showing and Going. The curriculum and support are tailored to recognise the uneven learning profiles and developmental needs of each student.
Community Engagement and Celebration
To mark its first anniversary, Edu Space hosted an Open Hour event, inviting community representatives involved in referring students to the school. Visitors were guided through a Learning Walk to experience the Edu Space classroom environment firsthand and understand the unique model of education offered.
The school’s commitment to cultural inclusion, restorative education, and comprehensive mental health support was a key feature presented during the celebration.
The Redcliffe Community’s Ongoing Need
Edu Space continues to address an urgent need in Redcliffe, where many young people face systemic and personal barriers that hinder their access to education. Through its connection to the Redcliffe Area Youth Space, which has operated since 2002, Edu Space is uniquely positioned to offer integrated educational and wellbeing support.
By providing an alternative pathway, the school offers opportunities for students to develop their identity, find their voice, and discover academic capabilities in a safe and empowering environment.
Future Outlook for Edu Space in Redcliffe
Edu Space remains committed to expanding its support for marginalised students across the Redcliffe Peninsula and surrounding Moreton Bay Region. With a proven model rooted in community engagement and trauma-informed education, the school plans to continue offering transformative learning experiences for young people facing complex challenges.
Published 26-Apr-2025
