Frequently Asked Questions
What does our school do?
At Barrett Adolescent School we are dedicated to assisting students in Years 7 to 12 who have disengaged or are disengaging from mainstream education due to mental health challenges. Our co-educational school in the Metropolitan South Region focuses on helping students re-engage and thrive.
How can I enrol my child?
Enrolment at Barrett Adolescent School is facilitated through the Metropolitan Region Mental Health referral group. To learn more about the enrolment process, please contact your current school's Guidance Officer or contact Barrett Adolescent School directly on 07 3373 3344.
Does my child need to be engaging with a mental health clinician to enrol at the school?
It is a requirement that students enrolled at our school are either actively engaged, or are willing to engage with a mental health clinician.
What is our approach?
At Barrett Adolescent School, we take an active approach in identifying, developing, and facilitating clear pathways for students to reintegrate into mainstream education, alternative education, training or employment. Whilst curriculum engagement is our priority, we acknowledge the importance of student wellbeing and the development of social /emotional capabilities for this to be successful.
How do we support students with mental health issues?
We are considered a transition school for secondary school students. Our goal is to assist students to overcome significant barriers that are prohibiting their access to education and create clear pathways for their return to mainstream or alternative education, training or employment that align with their age, personal abilities and social capabilities.
What does curriculum look like at Barrett?
Students in Years 7-10 will study English, Maths, HASS, Science, Art, Drama, HPE, Food Technology and Digital Technology in alignment with the Australian curriculum. Senior students engage in a variety of Vocational Education and Training (VET) and TAFE@Schools courses, tailored to their specific needs and interests. Students who wish to pursue or continue an ATAR pathway or continue studying subjects from their base school are supported to do this.
Do students attend every day?
The school operates from Monday to Thursday, 9am to 2pm. Attendance is expected.
How long does the referral process take?
For information regarding the duration of the referral process, please consult your current school's Guidance Officer for more details.
Can I bring my child for a site visit?
All are welcome for site tours or school visits at Barrett Adolescent School. Please contact the school directly on 07 3373 4433 to arrange a visit.