Every Monday between 9am and 2pm, youth workers Emma Shelton and Tanya Nacarov try to enthuse a small group of Lalor North College students about school life.
The Whittlesea youth workers are hoping their one-on-one time with the year 11 and 12 students will ensure the youngsters pass VCAL and go on to forge successful careers in their chosen field.
The college referred the 17 and 18-year-olds to Whittlesea council’s youth development officers because of fears they were becoming increasingly disengaged with school life, or had bullying or family issues.
Ms Shelton said the students had been asked to organise a series of events for everyone at their year level, with a focus on food. The first event was a sausage sizzle outside a Mill Park supermarket, raising money to prepare and cook pancakes for the year 11 and 12 students today (Tuesday).
“It was their own idea, and it’s going to be a great social event for the whole school,” Ms Shelton said.
One year 12 student, who didn’t want to be named, said working with Emma and Tanya has boosted her self-esteem.
“I feel supported and it’s helped me become more connected to my school,” she said.
“A lot of the students’ teachers have told us about their remarkable turnaround and that they can’t believe how much the students are now engaging with their classmates,” Ms Shelton said.
Whittlesea Youth Services is at: baseline@whittlesea.vic.gov.au
Lexi Cottee
