Since 2013, the Carbrook team have developed an educational program with a strong reputation for the ongoing support of young people in the community who have been identified as ‘at risk’, and unable to attend mainstream school.
From 2013- 2017, Carbrook Centre operated as a Flexible Arrangement schooling option for young people who required more complex support. The program was based on animal assisted learning including equestrian vaulting and horse management skills. The program followed trauma informed and restorative practices underpinned by Christian values.
Feedback from community stakeholders was very positive, with many reporting improvements in engagement at school, which also resulted in encouraging changes in young people’s lives.
In 2017, Transformed Futures was established to continue the program after it ceased as a Flexible Arrangement. Transformed Futures resolved to have Carbrook Centre accredited as a school and, in 2019, Carbrook Centre commenced its first year of operation as an accredited school.
Special Assistance Schools in Queensland are independent, receiving Federal and State government funding, and do not charge tuition fees.