About the Program
Level Up is a place-based initiative focused on improving school engagement and strengthening career development pathways for young people across the Great South Coast region.
Led by Beyond the Bell, the program uses a Collective Impact approach to bring together schools, local employers, community organisations, and youth services. Level Up was created in response to increasing education disengagement, especially among students facing complex personal and social challenges.
Through practical and tailored support, the program connects education engagement to real-world career aspirations. Level Up helps build student motivation, confidence, and self-efficacy by equipping young people with the tools, relationships, and experiences they need to stay engaged with school and plan for their futures.
What We Do
Career Planning and Goal Setting
Level Up delivers in-school workshops and tailored career planning sessions to help young people set goals, explore their interests, and understand a range of education and career pathways including, TAFE, university, apprenticeships, and local employment opportunities.
Youth Mentoring and Wraparound Support
Students receive individual or small-group mentoring that builds self-belief, emotional regulation, and motivation. This personalised support encourages young people to re-engage with school and confidently plan for their futures.
Industry and Community Engagement
In partnership with local service providers and employers, students participate in workplace tours, career expos, project-based learning, and hands-on industry experiences, building real-world insight and connections to local career pathways.
Inclusive Practice and Cultural Safety
Level Up is committed to inclusive education, offering targeted support for First Nations students and those in alternative education. This ensures that all activities are strengths-based, culturally safe, and flexible to meet diverse student needs.
Collective Impact Coordination
The program Level Up uses a Collective Impact approach to align planning and evaluation across six local government areas (LGAs). This coordination strengthens partnerships, reduces duplication, and maximises impact for young people.
Our Impact
Level Up is making a difference by:
- Strengthening school engagement and students’ connection to learning
- Supporting smoother transitions from school to further education, training, or employment
- Increasing student motivation, confidence, and self-efficacy
- Expanding access to career aspirations and local industry insight
- Reducing barriers for young people facing disadvantage or vulnerability
We’re seeing:
- Improved student engagement, behaviour, and future planning outcomes
- Stronger awareness of education and career pathways
- Greater confidence and clarity about life after school
- More meaningful connections between schools and local industries
