Doxa School Melbourne

Re-igniting interest in learning

At Doxa School  Melbourne we provide alternative education for young disadvantaged students who are finding staying at their regular school challenging. Our students are between 11-14 years old and are usually referred by their school because their education is being disrupted by personal circumstances and behavioural or learning difficulties. Since our school opened in 2000 our aim has been to excite young people about learning and help them succeed on a chosen path. So it is important that students come to Doxa School because they want to. Not because they feel obliged or compelled.

Intervention and On-going Support

Our unique Doxa School program involves a six-month intervention, followed by a 12 month supported return to regular school. This model has proven very successful in increasing retention rates amongst our young disadvantaged students.
During the first six months students attend our  Melbourne School. We have greatly reduced class sizes so learning is intensive and customised. We think of our intervention period as a breath of fresh air; a chance for students to continue learning at their own pace, in a supportive environment.
As part of our agreement with our students, they return to their regular school or another of their choice, after the six-month intervention. We support them at their school for a year with regular visits from one of our youth workers. Their school also provides a mentor to make the transition as easy as possible. During this time the partnership and goodwill established between Doxa School and the mainstream school is critical to the students’ success.

A Doxa School Day

Our school day is divided into two halves. The first is dedicated to numeracy, literacy and learning about the world. With our student directed model, learning is based on what interests our students. In the second half we focus on personal and social development. At Doxa School we believe that the development of self-esteem, social skills and more traditional learning are equally important in creating lasting change for young people.
For our 20 students we have three dedicated full-time teachers and 2 full-time youth workers. They are supported by a group of experienced volunteers. Our aim is to restore our students’ enjoyment of learning. Where students have had a disrupted education we guide them to a level that is appropriate for their age so they feel more confident when they return to their regular school.

Student Referrals

Young students are referred to our school from all over Melbourne and the metropolitan area. We interview for approximately 18 students every six months. For more information about our school or referring a student please contact our Principal Megan Moore on (03) 9387 3516.
We welcome visitors and interested students by appointment. Our address is:
Doxa School  Melbourne
1-3 Dawson St
Brunswick 3056