Margaret Jurd College (MJC), is an alternative school that believes education goes beyond academic outcomes. We believe that when a young person’s social and emotional needs are met, they gain the capacity to fully engage with their education and begin to see new possibilities for themselves. This belief forms the heart of The Jurd Way, our distinctive, trauma-informed model that places equal importance on wellbeing and education.
What is The Jurd Way?
The Jurd Way was inspired by our founder, Margaret Jurd, who opened the first learning centre in a Newcastle pub in the 1980s. It was an unusual start, but it was based on one simple belief: that every young person deserves care, respect and opportunity.
It is about creating an alternative education environment for students to grow, not just academically, but emotionally and socially. Our approach recognises that many students have faced complex challenges, and that traditional schooling may not have met their needs.
At MJC, we are an alternative school that provides a space where students feel safe, respected and supported. Through small class sizes, one-on-one casework, tailored educational plans and a team that understands the impact of trauma, we help students build resilience and make positive choices about their futures
Why Wellbeing Comes First
We believe that when a young person feels safe and supported, they’re ready to learn. That’s why we don’t separate education and wellbeing. They work together here. Every lesson, every chat with a teacher, and every goal set with a caseworker is about helping students take positive steps forward.
For many students, mainstream schools haven’t been the right fit. Our trauma-informed approach means we take the time to understand what each student needs. we don’t focus on punishments rather building connection, trust and steady support. This doesn’t mean discipline is off the table, however we acknowledge that understanding the student’s individual needs often helps avoid those heightened scenarios that lead to punitive actions
Casework: Personal Support That Makes a Difference
Casework is a cornerstone of The Jurd Way. Each student is matched with a dedicated caseworker before they start at MJC. This relationship becomes a central support throughout their time at the College.
Caseworkers work alongside students to set social and emotional goals, navigate everyday challenges and develop strategies for managing life more confidently. Whether a student is struggling with mental health, conflict, relationships or social pressures, they do not have to face it alone.
Our caseworkers are trained in trauma-informed practices and mental health support, offering students a trusted adult who understands why behaviours might be happening and who can help them find new pathways forward.
The Student Wellbeing Program: Skills for Life
One of the most important parts of The Jurd Way is our Student Wellbeing Program. At the Tuncurry Campus, Students take part in two workshops each week designed to build skills they’ll use long after school finishes. These sessions cover things like:
- Managing anxiety and emotions
- Communicating clearly and handling conflict
- Building confidence and setting personal goals
- Understanding how our bodies respond to stress
- Practical strategies to stay calm and focused
These are real-life skills, taught in ways that make sense and build confidence over time.
Flexible Learning with Real Pathways
At MJC, students can work towards their Record of School Achievement, with the option to continue to the Higher School Certificate through our non-ATAR pathway. For those who need extra help building life skills, our Lifeskills Programs cover things like budgeting, job readiness and planning for the future.
Everything we do is about helping students take positive steps forward, both in the classroom and in life.
Our teaching and learning goals include:
- Improving literacy and numeracy outcomes
- Lifting academic performance to support post-school opportunities
- Strengthening students’ understanding of themselves and others
- Developing interpersonal skills such as communication, ethics, teamwork and problem-solving
We aim to equip students with the tools they need to engage meaningfully in learning and in life.
If you’re looking for an alternative school where wellbeing matters and young people are supported to take steady steps forward, you’ll find it here at MJC.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is The Jurd Way?
The Jurd Way is how Margaret Jurd College combines learning and wellbeing to support students in both education and personal growth. It’s practical, consistent and built on respect.
How does the wellbeing program work?
Students take part in two workshops each week, building skills in managing emotions, communication, confidence and job readiness.
What kind of students go to MJC?
Young people who need a different kind of school. Students who might have found mainstream schooling hard or overwhelming often find the support they need at MJC.
What are the academic options?
Students can complete the Record of School Achievement (RoSA) and have the option to continue to the Higher School Certificate through our non-ATAR pathway. We also offer Lifeskills Programs for extra practical support.
How is MJC different from other schools?
We are an alternative school that focuses on relationships first. With small classes, dedicated caseworkers and wellbeing programs built into the week, students feel known, supported and encouraged to take positive steps forward.