From 0% attendance at school, to winning a star award from his teacher. This is a story of how our HOPE Youth Justice Services can make a huge difference in young peoples lives.
Ryan* is an 11-year-old male who was referred to Hope Youth Justice Services in September 2024. When we first met him he was associated with a number of negative peers, engaging in antisocial behaviour, not attending school, damaging property and getting into fights.
The goal for Ryan’s Youth Support Mentor was to help support him with transportation, encouragement to attend school and recreational activities and to work through his emotional management issues.
Since beginning the mentoring program Ryan’s school attendance has doubled this term from last term and his teacher is astounded by his progress.
“Oh my goodness, this kid is AMAZINGGGG!” says his teacher.
“Honestly, he has shone during dance practice, so much so that he’s in the second line. He has won most successful award in the upper primary challenge period, and he will be winning my Friday superstar award. He has genuinely followed all instructions, attempted all tasks, come to school daily and been an absolute legend!!!.
When Ryan needs support to attend school or school holiday programs, he reaches out to his Youth Support Mentor. Ryan attended a 2-day basketball program where he thrived – listening to all instructions and attempting all drills to his best ability. He has also developed skills to be able to acknowledge when he is struggling and can remove himself from a situation to calm himself down.
“He has called me every day this week so far to come pick him up and he has been ready and keen to come to school.” says Ryan’s HOPE Youth Support Mentor.
What now?
HOPE will continue to engage Ryan through the holidays with appropriate programs and will hopefully be able to keep his school attendance up next year.
Our HOPE Youth Justice Services Manager Midwest had this to say of Ryan’s progress:
“Amazing news!! This is the stuff we dream of for our young people isn’t it, and he is totally out doing all expectations.”
If you would like to learn more about HOPE’s Youth Justice Program, click here.
*Names have been changed.