The Local Youth Worker Helping Coastie Kids Reconnect with School

Some kids just need a second chance.

And sometimes, they just need someone willing to back them while they figure things out.

Meet Isabella Halpin, Youth Worker

At Y Space Central Coast, youth worker Isabella Halpin has spent the past two years supporting young people who are at risk of disengaging from school to find their footing again. Her dedication to young people is making a real difference in our local community.

Now, her work has been recognised statewide.

Isabella recently received The Y NSW quarterly values award by CEO Rob Kennaugh, selected from nominees across the organisation for the impact she’s making here on the Central Coast. A very proud moment for the Central Coast community!

It’s nice seeing people like Izzy getting a bit of recognition.

Because while we’re bombarded with reports of youth crime, school refusal and “kids these days”, there’s actually a whole lot of people showing up every day to help young people get back on track before they fall through the cracks completely.

Central Coast students find support through The Y NSW Alternative Suspension Program

One of the ways Isabella supports Central Coast kids is through The Y NSW’s Alternative Suspension Program. This program gives students support during school suspension periods, helping them reconnect with education, work through behavioural challenges and receive guidance and support in a safe environment.

Because – surprise, surprise – sending a struggling teenager home for a week without support doesn’t magically solve very much.

At Y Space Central Coast, Isabella has worked with hundreds of young people through the Alternative Suspension Program, helping rebuild confidence, connection and routine, while also creating a space where they feel heard and supported without judgement. And the results speak for themselves.

Since launching in NSW in 2023, more than 500 young people have participated in the program, with nine in ten students who complete it returning to school. The program has also recorded a 27% drop in physical violence, a 24% reduction in disruptive behaviour and improved academic engagement.

Youth support services making a difference on the Central Coast

Impressive stats aside, it’s the small wins that matter to the people involved.

The kid who starts showing up again. The family who finally feels supported. The teenager who realises one rough patch at school doesn’t have to define the rest of their life.

Her colleagues described Isabella as “the bedrock” of the program – reliable, solid and fundamental to its success on the Central Coast. “She consistently steps in to support others and brings people together through collaboration, shared understanding and care,” her team shared.

It’s easy to talk about disengaged youth as a statistic or a broader social issue. But behind every suspension is a real kid, a stressed family, and usually a whole lot more going on than people realise.

The last thing these kids need is another lecture. They need someone outside the situation who can listen without jumping to punishment mode. Someone who helps them feel seen, capable and worth backing.

The Alternative Suspension Program focuses on connection. On support. On giving young people the tools and encouragement to make better choices moving forward.

And for plenty of families on the Central Coast, that support can change the trajectory of a young person’s life.

Not every important community story comes with a huge headline or a fancy ribbon-cutting.

Sometimes it’s someone like Isabelle, showing up every day, creating a safe space and helping young people believe they’re capable of more.

And we reckon that deserves a bit of recognition, too.

Y Space Central Coast is a service of the YMCA NSW. View all events & support options via Y Space Online, or follow them on Instagram and Facebook.