Not every student fits into the mainstream model of school — and that’s okay. At Novo, we exist for young people who need something different. Something flexible. Supportive. Real.
Real stories. Fresh starts.
“I feel that at this school I was given the opportunity to focus on my mental health and I felt supported in doing so. My wellbeing felt like a priority to the teachers and school, which was always an important factor to me … The staff are fantastic people to have around and encourage students to do their best. They know how to help in a lot of situations and often help to calm students down when everything feels impossible to handle.”
Novo Student
“We have witnessed gradual but dramatic improvements in our child’s attitude to the importance of learning and taking responsibility for his various life choices. We know that he feels safe at his school and is willing to openly discuss private matters with school staff and accept advice that is offered to him with appropriate explanation.”
Novo Parent
“When I first came to Novo I was a mess; I lacked confidence, I didn’t have many friends, I had no idea what I wanted to do with my life, I hated school and my mental health was at its absolute worst. I’m a new person now; I enjoy going to school, I have a job, I can handle my mental health, I have a lovely group of friends, I’ve finally got my life back on track again.”
“In two and a half days my son’s Mentor Teacher has managed to ignite a passion for learning which I haven’t seen since kindergarten. The weight of the world seems to have lifted off his shoulders and he is a different kid; happy and engaging.”
Novo Education began with one clear purpose: to create a place where young people could re-engage with learning on their own terms — without fear, judgement, or being left behind.
Since 2011, we’ve worked alongside students across the Illawarra and Shoalhaven who’ve experienced challenges in education. Whether those challenges come from trauma, mental health, disability, or life circumstances, Novo is a space where students are seen, supported, and given a real chance to grow.
Novo is a registered Special Assistance School for students in Years 9 to 12. Our model blends:
Learning at Novo isn’t one-size-fits-all. It’s built around each student — their needs, their strengths, and their future.
We work with students who’ve found traditional schooling difficult, or who need a different kind of environment to thrive.
That might include young people with:
If a student is ready to engage, and wants to grow — Novo is ready to meet them where they are.
Novo Education is part of WEA Co, a trusted community education provider with over 100 years of experience delivering inclusive, empowering education across the Illawarra.
As part of WEA, we’re grounded in a shared belief: that education should open doors — not close them.
Whether you’re a student looking for a fresh start, a family member exploring options, or a referrer looking for the right fit — we’re here to help.