Education is a crucial building block for a brighter future

It’s widely accepted that a good education is fundamental for a solid foundation in life. But right now, it’s getting harder and harder for children to get a fair go at school.

Education is a crucial building block for a brighter future
Students from our School Engagement program in Frankston North

The cost of living is pushing more families into poverty. It means they’re not always able to meet the basic costs of their children’s schooling, let alone pay for extra help if their child needs it.

BSL knows when families have access to education programs and parents are engaged and empowered to be involved in their children’s education, children feel safer and more connected at school — and in turn have higher expectations for their academic achievement.

BSL runs in-school engagement programs that work with vulnerable middle years students in Years 7-9 who are disengaged or at risk of disengaging with school. Staff support the young people and their families to re-engage them in full-time mainstream education or enter an alternative learning pathway. Some of the young people may be neurodivergent, or they may be living with trauma due to family violence or bullying or other disadvantages. They need extra support and understanding to help them get back on track at school.

At BSL we believe all children deserve access to a decent education and support that meets their needs. We want to ensure they have a fair chance to build a solid foundation for their future and overcome any barriers that stand in their way.