The Alternative Education Awards programme is an initiative to support the development of young people in community based and alternative education settings. The programme provides students with the opportunity to achieve Unit Standards and NCEA Level 1. The programme draws on models of positive youth development (YDSA/Circle of Courage) and NZ Curriculum documents to design meaningful learning and assessment opportunities (including numeracy and literacy). There are 3 parts to the AE Awards programme:

1. Unit standards based professional development for staff
2. Student assessment and the development of an IDP (Individual Development Plan)
3. Student achievement of unit standards based on Awards and Challenges