OPERATION Newstart Eastern, run by Victoria Police, Berengarra School and the Department of Education and Early Childhood Development, kicked off last Tuesday.

Students aged 13-17 who were having problems at school and considered 'at-risk' will take part in the program for one term.

They will attend their school on Mondays and the rest of the week take part in activities such as fitness programs, a three-day bushwalk camp, educational sessions and certificate I in vocational preparation at Holmesglen TAFE. They will also keep a diary about their thoughts and experiences.

Berengarra outdoor education teacher Steve Magdis said students joined the program for reasons such as disengagement at school, a lack of

understanding about why they were at school, low self-esteem, bullying and issues with teachers and authority figures.

Police facilitator, Leading Senior Constable Sandy McIver, hoped students would be challenged, with many realising they couldn't continue down the same track.

"During the interview stage, many of them understood that if they don't make a change they could end up expelled from school or kicked out of home."

Eastern suburbs resident Patrick was excited to try something new and get out of school, where he

had been bullied and had trouble reading and writing. He hoped Newstart would boost his confidence, literacy skills and give him a new outlook.

Holmesglen TAFE senior educator Ben Jones said the program could provide opportunities for students to regain self-belief, remain engaged in education and develop a higher sense of self-esteem.