PEACH: School Away From School

The initiative supports youth from the Jane-Finch community who are disengaged from the education system and/or involved with the justice system and require intensive supports to obtain or recover credits.

A TDSB teacher works with youth aged 12-17 to participate in life skills, arts-based, culinary, academic and leadership activities to recover incomplete credits. A partnership with Oolagen community organization enables additional support from a network of individuals, chosen by students, to assist in their success at PEACH. 

Students work at their own pace, giving them a sense of accomplishment and ultimately building their confidence in learning abilities. The initiative is an example of educational institutions working with community organizations in support of student success.

Since the completion of their youth space and receipt of YCF funding, PEACH has supported 43 youth to recover credits over four school terms. An ongoing partnership with York University enables PEACH to evaluate their work and remain committed to their vision.

As a partner in the YCF Legacy Education Attainment West initiative, PEACH continues to contribute to strengthening community capacity to provide educational supports for disengaged youth.