An interview with Tamara, IDEA Parent
Starting Out
My daughter Mya began her schooling in a traditional classroom. By Year 4, things became really difficult. She was highly anxious, often refusing school, and her attendance dropped. As her mum and as someone who has faced my own share of challenges, I knew I could not just watch her education slip away. So I made the leap into homeschooling.
It was not easy. As a solo parent it meant sacrificing career and financial stability to give her what she needed. But I have always believed that raising whole, resilient young people is more important than making every decision based on economics. If we do not invest in our kids, the future suffers.
Our Homeschool Years
Homeschooling gave us many wonderful years together. I leaned on my background in lecturing and built learning around Mya’s interests, from baking that tied in maths and science to creative projects and experiments. She thrived, and we always received glowing reports from moderators.
But by the time she reached Year 8 and 9, things shifted. She started to disengage, sleeping in, losing motivation, either isolating herself or only wanting to socialise. I could see she needed more structure, something beyond what I could provide at home.
Exploring Options
I searched everywhere: community schools, alternative programs and online options. Some did not feel like the right fit. Others were financially out of reach. But in my research I came across IDEAcademy.
I took in an Info Session, spoke to Nicole (IDEA Director) on the phone, and then met Rebecca (IDEA Director) in person.
“The moment we walked into IDEA, I knew this was the place where Mya would thrive.”
What Stood Out About IDEA
It was not just the facilities, though I loved the co-working feel, quiet booths, and flexible zones. It was the atmosphere. I saw how the students engaged with each other, how the staff were right there alongside them, not tucked away in offices. It felt like a true community, supportive, inclusive, and real.
Rebecca offered Mya a place that very same afternoon. Honestly, it was the best decision we could have made.
The Transition
Transitioning was not without its challenges. As a neurodiverse young person, Mya needed time to adjust. The two “flex days” built into IDEA’s program were key. For the first couple of months, I did not push her to overload those days. That gentle entry made all the difference.
Now she juggles school, a part-time job, and work experience, and she is excelling.
“For me, the biggest change has been her independence. She now gets herself up, catches public transport, and even takes on leadership roles.”
These are things homeschooling could never have given her, no matter how many co-op activities or meet-ups I organised.
Looking Ahead
When we started, Mya was certain she wanted to be a mechanic. Work experience in that field has made her question that path, and that has been just as valuable. Instead of locking into one career too early, IDEA is giving her exposure to different options and helping her discover her strengths.
She is even talking about finishing Year 12 now, something she didn’t really consider with such purpose before. For me, that shift alone speaks volumes about how much confidence and possibility IDEA has opened up for her.
Advice for Other Parents
If you are considering IDEA, my advice is simple:
“Find a way to visit.”
See the environment, meet the people, and watch the students in action. If cost feels like a barrier, explore every option you can, because the value goes beyond academics. IDEA gives our young people a taste of the real world, with the support and flexibility they need at this stage of life.
For Mya and for me IDEA has been more than an education. It has been a fresh start, a place to grow, and a bridge to a future she is now excited about.
