LINKS2LEARNING
School isn't the only way to learn & grow. Some students benefit from a different approach. BYS runs L2L for Years 9 & 10 students in the Byron Shire. The program is funded by the NSW Department of Education's Links2Learning. Learn more here
First offenders
Young people often face a variety of complex and challenging issues that they do not have the life experience or capacity to manage on their own. Some examples being domestic violence, family conflict, substance abuse, grief and loss, mental health challenges, disengagement from school and legal issues. In the traditional punitive approach when young people break the rules they form an image of themselves that is negative, they are further disconnected from themselves and others and underlying causes are not addressed. From our experience, if young people feel connected and valued, they are less likely to behave in damaging ways.
In 2011, BYS implemented the mobile outreach bus. This program aims to support young people when they are most vulnerable. Byron Bay is a hub for binge drinking, vandalism, and violence. Street Cruise hires trained youth workers to assist young people. Learn more here
BYS has been meeting the needs of young people & families in the north of the shire for many years through providing a safe space at The Cottage. Hosts girls & boys groups, provides case management, referral, liaison, school & family support, individual support & activities! Learn more here
Beach Sleepers was funded through a NSW government Youth Opportunities grant to provide artistic and production support for young artists to explore and make artistic statements about the issue of homelessness in our shire. Learn more here
Schoolwork is one of the biggest stressors in the life of many teenagers and it’s easy to fall behind. Get support with current assignments or getting ready for exams. We have plenty of computers and access to internet. Learn more here
Learn how to froth milk, grind coffee, maintain the machine/grinder & produce a killer espresso! Learn more here
The Safer Drivers Course for Learners is run by BYS for students in the Byron Shire. The course combines theoretical and practical training for under 24 L-plate drivers with a minimum of 50 logbook hours. Learn more