An early intervention program at Dunlea that helps get students back on track has had strong attendance results. Picture supplied
By Eva Kolimar
Dunlea Centre marks its program success
A YEAR after expanding its mission to reach younger students, Dunlea Centre is reporting “resounding success” for its primary school intervention program. The initiative, which launched last year to bridge a gap in local educational support, has proven to be a lifeline for families across Sutherland Shire.
Designed for students in years 4 to 6, the therapeutic education model focuses on re-engaging children who have struggled with school refusal, social anxiety, or academic decline in mainstream settings.
The data from the program’s first full year paints a picture of significant recovery. While many of these students previously faced high rates of absenteeism, school attendance for the 2025 cohort has soared to between 86 per cent and 96 per cent. The program also celebrated its first three graduates at the end of last year, marking a successful transition for students who were once largely disengaged from their education.
Educational services manager Harry Fairhall noted that the program’s holistic approach is the “magic formula” for these results. “It’s been rewarding to see young people who were disengaged and feeling low move toward feeling empowered as learners,” Mr Fairhall said. “The feedback from parents and carers has been great; it’s meeting their distinct needs socially, emotionally, and academically.”
The program’s success is anchored by its small class sizes and high-intensity support. By maintaining a low student-to-teacher ratio, the centre provides a level of personalisation that mainstream schools often cannot match. Classroom teacher John Roche, a 20-year veteran of mainstream education, says the change in the students is palpable. “Their success has gone up in reading, writing, and maths,” Mr Roche said. The recent addition of new laptops and integrated clinical support ensures students have the tools they need to succeed. “Our focus is building those healthy relationships,” Mr Roche said. “We make sure they recognise they’re in a safe, supportive environment, building rapport and making learning fun.”
While the Primary Program is now well-established, Dunlea Centre is looking to support more families. There are five students enrolled, with limited vacancies available for students in years 5 and 6 for the current school year.
As school refusal and social disengagement become increasingly prevalent issues post-COVID-19, Dunlea Centre continues to offer a vital “early intervention” pathway, helping younger children get back on track before they reach high school.
