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Applying for a Board Endorsed Alternative Education Program

Information for schools, RTOs and organisations

Information on this page outlines the application process for schools, RTOs and other organisations seeking to deliver a Board Endorsed Alternative Education Program. For full details, refer to Section 4 of the Loading .

Eligibility requirements

Applicants can include:

  • government schools
  • non-government schools
  • TAFE NSW
  • RTOs
  • non-government organisations.

Closing dates for applications

Applications are due by:

  • Week 5 of Term 1 for delivery in Semester II of the given year
  • Week 5 of Term 3 for delivery in Semester I of the following year.

How to apply

Step 1

Optional attendance at an information session on the application process in:

  • Week 3 of Term 1 (for round 1 applications)
  • Week 3 of Term 3 (for round 2 applications).

For more information on the information session and to RSVP please email curriculum@nesa.nsw.edu.au.

Step 2

Gather all required documentation relevant to the criteria for approval. These are detailed in Section 4.4 of the Loading  and in general, relate to:

  • the need for this program as an alternative to the other pathways provided in the Education Act 1990 (NSW)
  • the nature, content and outcomes of the program
  • your school/RTO/organisation's capacity to deliver the program
  • your school/RTO/organisation's capacity to meet its legislative obligations in relation to child protection.

Step 3

Complete NESA’s Loading  (DOCX 138KB) and attach all required documentation.

Information needed:

  • program title
  • school/organisation details
  • program rationale
  • specific needs of the students
  • nature of the program content
  • learning outcomes
  • monitoring and reporting procedures
  • capacity to deliver the program.

Step 4

Email your completed application and any additional supporting documentation to curriculum@nesa.nsw.edu.au.

Step 5

The Board Endorsement Panel will consider the application at their next meeting.

Step 6

Applicants will be notified of the Panel’s decision by:

  • Week 3 of Term 2 (round 1 applications)
  • Week 3 of Term 4 (round 2 applications).

Step 7

If approved, you will receive a Notice of Approval to deliver the Board Endorsed Alternative Education Program.

If declined, you may appeal the decision (see Sections 6 and 7 of the Loading ).

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