The role of alternate and individualized education in the reduction of juvenile recidivism

The phenomenon of juvenile incarceration continues to rise across Australia. The amount of young people going to jail on multiple occasions also continues to rise, damaging the individual, their families, and their communities. A focussed approach based on research and best practice is required to tackle this growing issue. Fellowships such as this one allow for practitioners to share ideas, create communities of best practice, and support each other in their work. The role of individualised and alternative education in reducing the level of juvenile recidivism has not received the research focus that is deserves. This fellowship document brings together a review of practices in the USA and links it with current practices in Australia. A list of recommendations crossing several domains is provided, allowing those in the field to come away with a blueprint to assist their own battles using education to reduce juvenile recidivism.