108 Bargara Rd
Bundaberg East, Qld, 4670
IMPACT Community Services is excited to announce the Non-State Schools Accreditation Board (NSSAB) has officially approved its application to set up a Special Assistance School in Bundaberg.
The decision paves the way for Impact Community ACADEMY to open its doors in 2025.
Impact ACADEMY is purposely designed to support young people who have, or are at risk of, disengaging from mainstream education. With a focus that prioritises wellbeing, students will be able to address their academic, emotional, social, and physical needs in a supportive and inclusive environment where everyone is set up to thrive.
“We are very proud to have reached this significant milestone,” said Tanya O'Shea, Managing Director of IMPACT Community Services.
“With NSSAB approval now in place, we are excited to move forward with the final preparations to welcome our first cohort of Year 11 students in 2025.”
IMPACT has worked closely with local principals, the region’s other Special Assistance Schools and Independent Schools Queensland (ISQ) to ensure its offering met community need.
“We are grateful for the ongoing support everyone has shown,” Mrs O’Shea said.
“Our conversations have demonstrated to us the critical need Impact ACADEMY will fill within our community.
“There is a clear demand for alternate schooling options. We know hundreds of young people are disengaged from traditional learning environments. Local principals have indicated that this could affect as many as 1 in 3 local students.
“Impact ACADEMY will meet students where they are, challenge them to think differently, and empower them to take control of their own learning.
“To achieve our aims, we will support students and their families using a Wellbeing First approach that is delivered through the Academy’s Connect, Learn, Change and Transform model.”
She said IMPACT had a long history of helping youth to prioritise their wellbeing so they could achieve their goals.
Founding Principal Jenna Auer envisions a space where students are greeted warmly, and both their daily achievements and challenges are acknowledged.
“From the smell of breakfast when they arrive to the fun lunchtime activities, we’ll make sure every detail is about supporting students’ wellbeing and creating a space that feels like home,” Ms Auer said.
“We want to create a space where our young people feel connected and a sense of belonging, where they can express who they truly are.”
Impact ACADEMY, which will also be located at 108 Bargara Road, is expected to open in the first half of 2025. An expressions of interest form is available via www.impactca.com.au. Ms Auer is also working with local schools and organisations to establish referral pathways and is available to provide further information or answer any questions families or school may have.
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