To do different, we think different
We understand that our world is complex and constantly changing, therefore we consciously seek innovative ways to meet the needs of young people and make them feel confident and able to thrive.
At SASY there are no uniforms, no fees, no bells, no traditional classrooms, no exams, and no one way of doing things.
We invest in connection first, focusing on the journey rather than the destination.
We believe in time without pressure, we listen, seek opportunities, celebrate successes, build successful habits, encourage voices, ask questions, support the individual and above all, we care.
Holistic Practices
Supporting the whole person, engaging body, mind, emotion, imagination and spirit.
Holistic Learning
Holistic Learning is an approach in education that recognises the interconnectedness of all aspects of a person’s life, including their physical, emotional, social, and intellectual wellbeing. This recognises that young people learn best when they are engaged in learning experiences that are meaningful and enjoyable. Wellbeing and education are merged into the same learning experiences.
At SASY this looks like:
- Reconnecting young people to safe learning environments and safe adults.
- Embedding meaning and purpose through engaging learning experiences by doing.
- Growing holistic wellbeing and connections to community.
- Developing agency and independence as lifelong learners.
Trauma Informed
Traumatic experiences can lead to
disconnection from school and learning.
Research shows that trauma can
adversely affect how the brain develops
and can impact on a young person’s
capacity to concentrate and learn,
affecting the rest of their lives.
We create a whole-school culture that
serves as a foundation for all young
people to heal, learn and experience
success at school and beyond no matter
their experience.
At SASY this looks like:
- Awareness of a young person’s past trauma and triggers.
- Create safe and welcoming environments with predictable routines and rhythms.
- Foster opportunities to connect people to the space, each other, and the community.
- Speak openly, learning together, and focusing on emotions.
Restorative Practice
Working restoratively enables us to build our SASY community. We believe all young people can make positive changes in their lives; therefore, we work to respond and repair, aiming for safety and fairness for all. Restorative practice is about creating and nurturing meaningful relationships. It is a way of being, thinking, interacting, teaching, and learning – with enabling strong relationships at the centre of all we do, every day.
At SASY this looks like:
- Safety and respect for all.
- Participation that is voluntary with informed choice.
- Fair, consistent, unbiased responses.
- Taking responsibility: reflecting, understanding, owning and actioning.
Inclusive Community
At SASY we are proud supporters of young people. They are safe, seen, heard, and celebrated. Their life circumstances and adversities faced do not define them. We promote equity, access, and opportunity. All young people are invited to participate with agency and voice. We take active steps to further learn and seek to dismantle discrimination and proudly acknowledge that our work takes place on Kaurna Country.
At SASY this looks like:
- Intentionally creating a safe place for people who have been excluded by society.
- Connecting young people to community and health services.
- Supporting wellbeing, with individual case management.
- Provide leadership opportunities and promote young people’s voice.
- Celebrates young people to grow positive self-worth.
The Hubs
Our take on traditional 'home groups' are Hubs. Each Hub is supported by a multi-disciplinary team of staff. Here, they have space to connect, which opens opportunities that inspires learning.
Middle and Senior school have two Hubs each, grouping young people by age but also considering their social and emotional needs. Staff support young people to transition between Hubs as they grow.
Hubs provide consistent staffing, familiarity and continuity of care, in a space that cultivates a sense of identity and belonging at the start and end of each day for our students.
Each Hub has a Senior Youth Worker and a Senior Teacher who work closely together to coordinate and support learning and wellbeing. Hubs are led by Team Leaders who oversee Middle and Senior School.
Whilst young people may come and go from their Hub during program times, Hub staff will continue to support and monitor students' learning and wellbeing needs, ensuring continuity of care at all times.
Hubs are our 'one stop shop' for student needs.
Middle Hubs Focus
Developing resilience and the confidence to grow safety, establishing strong connections, discovering passions, building self and social awareness while growing capabilities, skills and knowledge.
Senior Hubs Focus
Seeking opportunities, engaging in community and industry, building leadership and voice, strengthening confidence, and supporting future paths, (e.g. Employment, SACE, further education and VET).
Our staff work side by side with young people, each playing a pivotal role in the varying stages of a young person's life at SASY. Our team of Youth Workers and Teachers are highly experienced at working with disengaged youth, and passionate about working alongside them to overcome barriers and achieve success, whatever that looks like for each young person.
At SASY, Wellbeing + Education = Learning.
We support each young person holistically, identifying their individual wellbeing and social emotional needs, as well as their educational needs. We recognise that positive wellbeing is the precursor to personal and academic growth and focus on establishing a safe environment where students feel supported and connected first.
If traditional school hasn’t felt like the right fit, SASY might be exactly what you’ve been looking for.
We’re not your average school—we’re a place where your wellbeing matters just as much as your learning. At SASY, we understand that life can be complicated, and sometimes you need something different to succeed.
That’s why we offer a flexible, student-driven approach to education that’s built around you—your interests, your goals, and your way.
Our team is here to support you every step of the way, not just in the classroom but in life too.
Whether you’re working toward your SACE, building confidence, or just trying to find your spark again, SASY is a safe space where you can grow, be heard, and be yourself.
If you’re ready for a fresh start in a place that truly gets you, then yes—SASY might just be the right place for you.
What makes us different?
Flexible and supportive programs
A focus on wellbeing and personal growth
Supportive staff who get it
A safe, inclusive space to thrive
Purposeful, enjoyable and young person-centred learning
High ratio of staff and low classroom sizes
