15 October 2026

Alternative Curriculum: Helping young people reconnect and succeed

A group of young people taking part in an outdoor cooking activity in a large tent in a forest

We are working with Lochend Community High School to help some of the city's most disengaged young people reconnect with education. The programme has improved their wellbeing, and giving them a brighter future.

Recently, the project supported a group of S2 and S3 pupils whose school attendance fell below 50%. One young person's attendance was as low as 10%.

Through weekly youth work sessions, dedicated mentoring, and a three-day residential trip, our

Community Learning and Development (CLD) Youth Work team created a safe, trusted space where participants felt listened to and supported.

Real impact

The Alternative Curriculum offers young people flexible ways to learn in community settings. It helps them build better relationships with school and the people around them.

The results have been impressive. The young person with only 10% attendance went to every Glasgow Life session. By the end of the programme they had and began going to school again.

The three-day residential trip made a big difference. It helped participants form strong friendships, gain confidence, and focus on their wellbeing.

What participants and parents said:

"This is what life should be like."

— Programme Participant

"I come here and feel I can talk to you guys about anything and feel that I will be listened to."

— Programme Participant

"I cannot believe they have attended every week. I thought we would just have to give up on school."

— Parent

From disengagement to SQA qualifications

Reflecting on the success of the group, Charlie Mooney, Libraries and Communities Officer, said:

"The group from Lochend has been a great example of our Alternative Curriculum programme. Some participants were completely disengaged with school for over three months and had given up on education.

"After working through the Alternative Curriculum and earning a Community Achievement Award, they went on to complete National 5s with school. One group member has even progressed to volunteering, supporting reading sessions with primary school children."

Creating a lasting impact

Following this success, we are exploring ways for past participants to mentor new groups. This will create a positive cycle of peer support for young people who need it most.