Small Steps, Big Wins: From Disengaged to Thriving

What were the goals?

To begin to enjoy education and appreciate learning as a fun activity.

To be able to develop his social skills, allowing him to engage in his education and with his peers and adults.

What were the challenges the student was experiencing before the BrightTeach Tutor’s support?

This young person was being supported in a secure facility, in this environment he was struggling to interact with his peers. He was also experiencing challenges engaging in work and to manage this he would seek to take frequent breaks and then either not attend the session or miss large chunks of the learning.

What did the tutor do?

Given these challenges the tutor identified how important it was to really get to know the student and work with him to see how their support might make a positive difference to his life. By building a personal relationship and investing the time getting to know him, the tutor could learn what approaches and support would have the most impact. The tutor focused on the young person’s individual strengths and interests as well as their needs. In turn this helped to build trust between the student and the tutor. With this trust established, a safe and secure learning routine could be put in place. Realistic daily targets were then set, based on the tutors knowledge and expectations of the student. Targets were frequently reviewed, monitored and adapted so the student experienced success regularly. Each small step of success would be praised.

An example of this effective engagement was an approach that allowed the young person to choose a particular topic to investigate. He chose the Goldrush of 1849, in California, and how many miners moved half way around the world in their quest for gold. The student was fascinated and wanted to know what happened after the rush had ended and where the miners went, leading the work to follow them around the world to other gold fields.

What was the impact of the BrightTeach Tutor’s support?

Following this personalised engagement this young person made great steps, engaging in learning and being interested in building relationships with peers and adults again. He successfully transitioned to a specialist school placement and has continued to experience success in this new environment.