Alternative education for marginalised students: perspectives on engagement, policy, and practice

This study explores the expectations, challenges, and outcomes associated with alternative educational settings designed for vulnerable and marginalised students in South Australia. Through in-depth interviews with educational leaders, key themes emerged highlighting the critical importance of meaningful student-staff connections, personalised and rigorous academic programming, and early intervention. Findings reveal that the effectiveness of alternative settings is highly dependent on the quality and commitment of personnel, with inconsistent policy frameworks and limited options for younger students presenting ongoing challenges. Maintaining strong links between alternative programmes and mainstream schools is essential for student engagement and successful reintegration. The study illustrates the need for targeted policy development, strategic staffing, and creative, flexible approaches to better meet the diverse needs of students, or the ‘missing middle’, in alternative education, ultimately improving educational outcomes and pathways to future opportunities.