Doxa School Bendigo

Regional Outreach

At Doxa School Bendigo we provide supported education for young disadvantaged students from Bendigo and the surrounding central Victorian region. Since we were established, in July 2006, we have enjoyed close links with our community and developed strong partnerships with the mainstream schools in the area.
Usually our students are 11-14 years old and are having difficulty remaining in their regular schools. Generally they have become disengaged from school by a combination of personal circumstances, and behavioural and learning difficulties. Because of the close-knit nature of the local community it is often hard for young people to break this cycle. At Doxa we provide them with the opportunities and tools for change.

_{Photograph courtesy of The Advertiser (Bendigo) taken by Laura Makepeace}

Tailored Learning for Locals

Our program is based on the Doxa School model, first introduced in our West Melbourne School in 2000. It consists of a six-month intervention consolidated by a year of support when students return to their regular school. The Doxa School program has been very successful in increasing retention rates amongst young disadvantaged students in Melbourne.
During the first six months students attend the Doxa School Bendigo, an old school building that has been beautifully refurbished. Away from friends and peers, our young students have a unique chance to learn at their own pace in a supportive environment.
After the six-month intervention our students return to their local school. They receive continued assistance with a dedicated school mentor and regular visits from a Doxa youth worker. Young students often need support when they return to their friends and peer group and the relationship between their school and Doxa School Bendigo is very important for helping them make the transition.

A Doxa School Day in Bendigo

Our school day is usually divided into two. During the first half our students focus on literacy, numeracy and the world around them. With our progressive projects-based learning, students identify their areas of interest and we tailor activities around them. The second half of the day is dedicated to activities designed to enhance our students’ social skills and self-esteem.
We have two full-time teachers for approximately 14 students. Class sizes are small and we provide additional support with 2 qualified youth workers and a number of experienced volunteers.

Referrals from Local Schools

Every six months we welcome approximately 14 new students to Doxa School Bendigo. They are referred by schools throughout Bendigo and the broader regional community. Students from as far as Castlemaine and Kyneton regularly attend our school. For referrals, interviews or more information about our unique school please contact Principal John Russell on (03) 5442 8140

Student Referrals

We welcome visitors and interested students by appointment. Our address is:
Doxa School Bendigo
118 Hargraves St
Bendigo
Vic 3550

_{Photograph courtesy of The Advertiser (Bendigo) taken by Alex Ellinghausen.}