Our schools operate in three vulnerable urban slum communities in Phnom Penh. Each school is run by a school manager who is responsible for the quality of educational and recreational programming and for ensuring that the school is responsive to the individual needs of the community.
Aziza Thmey School
Our first school, Aziza, opened in 2006 in the historic White Building. Following the closing of the school in 2017 due to the demolition of the White Building, we opened Aziza Thmey (New Aziza) in a large slum community where new migrants settle. Some of the original Aziza students were able to continue studying at Aziza Thmey. Additionally, we have welcomed new students from the community.
Lakeside School
Seeing the opportunity to replicate the EYC model, staff from Aziza started Lakeside School, in 2008. The school’s name was chosen because of the fact that the community was once located next to a lake that provided people with sustenance and jobs. The lake has since been filled and built upon. Those living around Lakeside are among the last remaining groups following evictions of 3,500 families in 2008.
Youth School
Student volunteers from Lakeside School started Youth School in 2009 to share their experiences and talent and give back to the community. Originally located in a slum shantytown along the former railroad tracks, Youth School was relocated in December 2022 after EYC was forcibly evicted following the decision to expand infrastructure in the neighborhood. Students from communities near the former Impact School and Youth School are both welcomed to the new location, which also hosts the EYC Main Office.