Education

Getting Evie on track

When Evie*, 13, was referred to Anglicare Victoria’s TEACHaR program, she was over a year behind in both English and mathematics and was experiencing mental health problems that impeded her ability to attend school regularly. She had a history of trauma and found the transition from primary to secondary school particularly challenging. This meant she was only able cope in the classroom for a few hours each day and struggled to keep up with her peers.

The school attempted to assist, but it became clear that Evie required greater flexibility and support than they could offer. As a result, Evie was enrolled in a new school and began working with Nikita*, an Anglicare Victoria’s TEACHaR Education Specialists. Initially, Evie was not very enthusiastic about her lessons, so Nikita, utilized games and brain breaks to motivate her to engage in learning and build her capacity for school work.

Additionally, Nikita provided support as Evie learned how to use public transport to travel to her new school.

After 10 weeks, Evie’s understanding of mathematics and writing has improved.

She is catching up with her peers and with the right support, demonstrating her ability to achieve in the classroom. Evie is attending school full time, and is participating in all her classes. She is making new friends, and loves getting the train to school each morning.

“Meeting Nikita has honestly changed my learning,” said Evie. “She listens and is supportive.”

Thanks to our donors’ generosity, Anglicare Victoria’s Education Specialists are able to support hundreds of young learners to thrive in the classroom.

“I love the fact that I can be proud of my work and achieve my learning goals.” Evie, TEACHaR participant

*Names have been changed to protect privacy.