Youth Boot Camp – Alice Springs

Supporting youth with an alternative to detention with QCM

Pathfinders is delivering its first contracted service in the Northern Territory through the Youth Boot Camp program, in partnership with Quality Construction & Maintenance (QCM). The program supports young people engaged with the Youth Justice system across Alice Springs, Darwin and Tennant Creek, providing a structured, culturally responsive alternative to detention.

Youth Boot Camps are designed for young people aged 10–17 years and focus on building practical life skills, accountability, emotional regulation, and pathways to long-term change. Participants may be on bail, referred through Youth Diversion, or completing a Ministerial Approved Program.

The Pathfinders Youth Boot Camp offers a safe, trauma-informed environment where young people are supported to develop confidence, teamwork, and real-world skills. Delivered in collaboration with QCM, the program combines hands-on construction activities with therapeutic and wellbeing supports to strengthen work readiness and personal development.

The Youth Boot Camp is offered in both 3-day and 5-day program options, allowing referring agencies to select the most appropriate level of support based on the young person’s individual needs and circumstances. Flexible delivery ensures the program can be tailored to meet the requirements of both participants and referring services.

Construction & Skills Program

Pathfinders delivers the Construction & Skills Program in Alice Springs, providing young people with meaningful, practical experience in a supported setting. Activities include hands-on trade tasks, practical projects, and structured skill-building designed to introduce pathways into training and employment.

Alongside practical learning, the program incorporates emotional regulation strategies, teamwork development, and strengths-based engagement to support behavioural change and resilience.