Trial of educational opportunities for preschoolers away from home is a big success

A trial of flexible learning for preschool and primary aged students at the Yilli Short Stay Accommodation (YiSSA) facility has reached its 12-month milestone marker, having a big impact on children and families experiencing homelessness. 

The classroom trial commenced in Term 3, 2021, and caters mainly for preschool and primary students, providing educational opportunities for more than 146 children while they are away from home.

A full-time teacher and teaching assistant from Karama Primary School are based at the site, with the classroom running from Monday to Friday during the school term and catering for up to 27 students a day.

While attending the program, students are assessed for enrolment into a local school or the appropriateness of continuing in the engagement program.

Through the program, families are offered a range of additional supports such as parenting sessions, access to occupational therapists and health support, tenancy readiness programs, financial counselling and more.

Made possible through a collaboration between the Department of Education, the Department of Territory Families, Housing and Communities and service providers Yilli Rreung and Mission Australia, “YiSSA is a great example of government and community providers working together to deliver important support programs. Knowing that nearly a third of guests are children, being able to provide a school program is crucial,”  said NT Minister for Housing and Homelands Selena Uibo. 

Since it opened on 6 June 2020, YiSSA has provided accommodation to 8,478 individuals and families, who would otherwise be sleeping rough. Learn more about YiSSA’s work here.