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Young people

Education First Youth Foyer

Hume region

Teenage boy sitting at desk on phone

The Education First Youth Foyer in Shepparton supports young people who are unable to live at home or do not have a stable place to live to achieve their education goals. Young people receive safe, secure accommodation while they study, as well as other support and skills to become independent adults.

Young people can also access work experience, develop their career goals and create a plan for future employment.

The Youth Foyer opened in 2016 and supports up to 40 young people at a time. It is a partnership between Berry Street, Beyond Housing Network and GOTAFE.

How it works

Young people receive:

  • tools and skills to help them follow their dreams and aspirations
  • access to education, training and employment opportunities
  • a safe, secure and affordable place to live for up to 2 years
  • 24-hour on-site support from staff
  • the opportunity to develop independent living skills through the GOTAFE Certificate 1 in Developing Independence
  • the chance to build social connections with other young people and community members
  • opportunities to participate in community activities
  • support to find housing when it's time to live independently.

Young people have their own furnished studio accommodation space, with a kitchenette, a bathroom and study area. There are shared laundry facilities, a kitchen and communal recreation and study areas.

Eligibility

You are eligible for the Education First Youth Foyer if you are:

  • aged 16 to 24 years old
  • unable to live at home or do not have a stable place to live
  • keen to get into education and training
  • willing to commit to staying in education and/or training.

How to apply

If you are eligible, there are 2 steps to apply for the Youth Foyer:

  1. Please complete a readiness form (PDF 654 KB). You can fill it out yourself or have someone you trust help you fill it out.
  2. Submit the completed form to the Education First Youth Foyer in Shepparton. This can be done in person or you can email it to foyershepp@berrystreet.org.au.

You’re also welcome to drop into the Youth Foyer and pick up a form in person.

A member of the team will get back to you within 3 business days about your application.

Hear from a young person

Mentor and Business Opportunities

When local people and businesses get involved with the Education First Youth Foyer, it is an investment in the future of Shepparton and the Goulbourn Valley. We welcome support from all kinds of businesses.

Find out more about mentor and business opportunities.

Contact us

Education First Youth Foyer team
199 Fryers Street, Shepparton VIC
Phone 0438 716 974
Email foyershepp@berrystreet.org.au

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