Phase 1: Build the foundations and establish services.

Phase 2: Acquire the second-hand demountable buildings.

Phase 3: Build the amenities block.

Phase 4: Fit out the building.

Social and emotional challenges should be no barrier to education…

Phase 1 : Build the foundations:
The Alesco Learning Centre was established Dubbo in central west NSW in 2014 as part of Western College Inc., a not-for-profit community college that has been serving the educational needs of the region for more than 60 years. 

Alesco started small, but due to the success and popularity of our program and the demand for its services, we’ve run out of space. In a way, it’s a good problem to have because it proves there’s a great need for the alternative learning environment Alesco provides. To ensure that we continue to meet the needs of at-risk young people who want to continue their education, we need to build a new school in 2016 – but we, and they, need your help. 

We cater for high school students who struggle to succeed in the traditional mainstream education system. Our students are those for whom the mainstream just doesn’t fit; the ones who fall through the cracks; the ones who often attract cruel labels. They’re the young people who haven’t yet managed to find a way to be heard and understood, or to reach their potential and contribute to society by finding their own special talents and abilities. 

Some of our students have a health related diagnosis or a specific challenge; some just simply don’t fit into a recognised “category”, but their challenges are very real. Some come from supportive backgrounds; some come from extreme disadvantage; some are homeless and without any family support at all.  Nearly 80 per cent of our students identify as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander. 

Alesco is a “real” school. We offer the Record of School Achievement just like any other Board of Studies-approved high school, but we do things differently here. Our classes are small and we have carefully chosen support staff and teachers with specialist expertise – teachers and staff who are passionate about helping their students achieve. 

Each of our students has an individual education plan, and our exceptional staff caters to the students’ individual and specific needs and challenges. 

All our students are here because they have chosen to give education a second chance. They’re free to leave if they decide continuing education is not for them – we don’t try to fit round pegs into square holes. We work towards shaping an individualised program that enables the student to succeed despite the challenges they face, and every student has a say in what success means for them. 

While we do value academic achievement, our goal is to build self-worth and confidence in our students; to teach them the skills to overcome their challenges and propel them into a productive and successful adulthood.  

Our Baby On Board Program caters for teenage parents by providing a flexible learning program, transport and a crèche for their babies so these young parents can continue their studies.  

Alesco’s vocational class focuses on life and work skills for those who are practically minded rather than academically inclined. Our program offers a variety of pathways to continuing education in vocational training or university, as well as preparation for employment.  

We do not receive school fees to supplement government contributions. We have received no funding to pay for our campus or classrooms or any other capital development. 

But we DO have a vision for education as the foundation for social justice and for strong, healthy communities in the Orana Region – and that’s where you come in.   

Please consider partnering with us to build a future for those who need a little extra help.  

Phase 1: Build the foundations and establish services.

Phase 2: Acquire the second-hand demountable buildings.

Phase 3: Build the amenities block.

Phase 4: Fit out the building.