Odyssey College
Recovery from drug and alcohol dependence is about more than addressing the underlying issues and habits that drive substance dependence. Research shows that having a career path after rehabilitation increases long-term recovery prospects.
Odyssey College is a one-of-a-kind free education service for all residents at our residential centres. During your stay, you will attend curriculum-based classes, access vocational training and gain job-readiness skills to help you secure work and navigate life after treatment.
Curriculum breakdown
Our college curriculum is designed to help you embrace your skills and realise your potential. We cater to all learning styles and our teachers are available to help you choose a study plan that supports your future goals.
Essential skills
We align with the NSW Education Standards Authority (NESA) curriculum, offering a balanced mix of subjects, including:
- English
- Industrial technology
- Visual arts
- Computing
- Mathematics
- Personal Development, Health, and Physical Education (PDHPE)
Vocational training
Vocational education is a significant focus for job-readiness. That’s why we offer course pathways including:
- Forklift licenses
- Traffic control
- White card
The college
Odyssey College has dedicated facilities across our Eagle Vale and Ingleburn residential centres.
Facilities include:
Air-conditioned classrooms with smartboards
Timber workshop
Art studio
Basketball court
Beach volleyball court
Gymnasium
Meet the principal
Cath Macgonigal (Executive Director and Principal, Odyssey College)
Cath has expertise and experience as an educator and school leader in Australia and overseas. She began her career as a primary school teacher, spent seven years as Head of School in London, before returning to Australia where she took up the role of Odyssey College Principal.
Cath has a strong focus on welfare, which together with her diverse skills and desire to help others, ensures those staying in our recovery centres are nurtured throughout their journey.
What students say
Annual reports
Our annual reports provide an overview of Odyssey College’s impact during each 12-month period (Jan – Dec).
Governance and compliance
Odyssey College is governed by the Odyssey House NSW Board, a not-for-profit registered Australian public company limited by guarantee. The principal reports to the School Advisory Committee which is a sub-committee of the Odyssey House NSW (OHNSW) Board and accountable under Corporations Law. The Chair of the School Advisory Committee is a member of the OHNSW Board which ensures responsible financial management and governance.
Odyssey College operates as a school and has significant policies in place to support the safety and learning of teachers and residents. See full policies here.
FAQs
Odyssey College is a free service offered as part of your residential stay. If you choose to enrol in certificate or diploma courses, government subsidies may be available to make these courses more affordable and this is arranged through the college.
Our goal is to make the transition back to community and work as smooth as possible post treatment. Having a career pathway and plan is crucial for routine and stability when leaving Odyssey. That’s why all residents must attend Odyssey College.
Unlike regular schooling, we tailor learning to your strengths and interests – making the experience fun and rewarding.
We provide a baseline curriculum that all residents attend in the first three months. Our teachers will meet with you to choose extracurricular activities and vocational training that supports your future goals.
Contact Odyssey College
If you have a question about Odyssey College get in touch with our team via [email protected]
We are available Monday – Friday 8.30am-4.30pm (AEST), excluding public holidays.
