Why are students referred to the Centre?

Students may be referred for one or two specific behaviours that are impeding their learning and often the learning of their classmates. It is usual however for students to be referred with a vast array of negative behaviours and attitudes. Some schools refer students as an early intervention tool, other schools refer students as a last effort before exclusions or expulsions are deemed necessary by senior management. Often a referral is made after other interventions by the school have not resulted in the desired changes to behaviour.

How do I refer a student?

Make an initial phone call to the Centre (09-376 4769) and a member of staff will ask a variety of questions including: student’s name; date of birth; referring school; your name and relationship to the student; parent(s) name and number(s); why is the student being considered for referral; what specific considerations, regarding the student, need to be taken into account at the preliminary interview; how has the student and/or family been informed as to the reasons for referral and how much do they know about what happens at the Centre. You will be given information then as to placements available and a possible date for an interview.

Who can refer a student?

Schools, whānau, counsellors, RTLBs, SENCOs, Alternative Education coordinators, CYFs, or students themselves can refer to the Centre by phoning 09 376 4769.

What ages are the students?

The students must be on a Secondary School roll and be under 16 years old on the day they start at the Centre. Most students are between 13 and 15 years of age.

How long do students stay at the Centre?

A review meeting will be held generally in the fifth week of the student's attendance. From here a decision is collaboratively made between the student, whānau, referring school and ASSC staff (the 'four parties') as to the next steps for the student. Students can only attend in the calendar year of their first attending the Centre. By the end of the year all students should be back at school.

What is the average length of stay?

The average length of stay is around 11 weeks.

How do I “pass” at the Centre to go back to school?

By consistently achieving their four behaviour goals that were agreed on when starting at the Centre. Those students who achieve the behavioural goals, and this is the majority, are gradually reintegrated back to their referring schools on a carefully monitored programme.

What is Re-integration?

Re-integration is the process by which students are supported in their return back into school. An integration meeting is held and all students have a daily report to be completed each day at school. The integration programme is tailored to the needs of the student and can vary in length but generally run over 4 weeks. Eg the student returns to mainstream school for one day in the first week and spends 4 days at ASSC. The next week they will be at school for two days with three days at ASSC etc. This not only eases the student back into the school academic and social system gradually, but if any issues arise these can be addressed immediately between all four parties. If necessary the integration process can be postponed, lengthened or shortened as need be.

How much does it cost?

The current cost to cover each student's lunches, printing, photocopying and books is $20 per week per student.

What transportation is available to get to the Centre?

The Centre is on the Auckland Transport Outer Link (Orange) bus route. The nearest train stations are Britomart and Mt Albert. Click into our Contact Us page for AT timetables and journey planner.

Do students wear uniform?

The students are not required to wear uniform. Neat, clean and unripped clothing that covers their body appropriately is required. Students are to strictly avoid gang or drug related or offensive items. No caps/hats or bandannas allowed.  Students are required to wear comfortable clothing that allows them to participate fully in PE.

What are the students like?

Just like all schools there are a wide range of students of varying behaviour, social and academic levels. Our students generally get on well together. They are into sports, music, shopping, gaming, skating, dancing and other general teenage activities. A lot of our students are wonderful young people who have made a few silly mistakes recently and who, with support, wish to do the right thing and get back to school.

What are the start and finish times?

8.50am - 2.55pm.