Michael started Year 11 struggling with attendance, external pressures, and anxiety. His disengagement led to poor behaviour and ungraded mock exam results.
Michael's Journey
Michael’s initial need for support came to the school’s attention when he was found drinking alcohol on school grounds. Meeting his mentor Stacey, provided the consistent, non judgemental relationship he lacked. Stacey helped Michael address his anxiety and focus on his self worth and potential. This stability immediately impacted his engagement: his attendance increased, and his attitude towards his health, school and his future started to shift and become more positive.
By the end of the year, Michael’s focus had vastly improved and his motivation had shifted to achieving for himself. He became more focused, showed better resilience and was able to embrace the support offered by Stacey. Michael successfully progressed to a positive initial destination.
Teacher Feedback: “His English Teacher noted that Michael had made progress, his attitude to his learning improved over the last part of Year 11 and he was putting in more effort during lessons”
Stacey, Michael's Mentor
Stacey provided the stability and belief Michael needed meeting him weekly for mentoring. She focused on helping him “look at all the qualities that he had to really instil in him the belief and knowledge that not only was he an amazing young man but also that he is worthy of support”.
Stacey’s commitment demonstrated the mentor’s role as a source of consistent access to stability and professional networks that addressed the obstacles faced by young people, fulfilling the core mission of MCR Pathways.
We are deeply committed to protecting the identities of the young people MCR Pathways supports through the power of mentoring. That’s why we have changed names and used imagery that does not feature the individuals who shared their stories.