School refuser to school enthusiast

School refusal is one of the top issues faced within schools today. Here, a school chaplain tells us how they worked with a Grade 6 student over two years to see him go from a school refuser to someone who now enjoys attending school.

"The student, let's call him *Leo, was refusing to come to school and had ongoing noticeable low attendance. Leo and I meet one on one (with his parents consent). Together we built trust and created a coming to school plan with soft starts. Together with a supportive class teacher we made a plan.

I would meet Leo at the front gate three days a week and walk with him to class. There were many difficult days but we kept moving forward. I encouraged him to join in lunchtime activities and through friendships with a new peer group, things began to change. His motivation returned for attending school and he visibly enjoyed life more. He stated his new friends make him feel supported, valued and confident.

Recently, Leo has been selected as one of our school leaders. I was proud of him and he was clearly proud of himself!

This story is a reminder that with joint efforts of the parents, teacher and wellbeing support, Leo is one of many students re-finding connection through positive peer networks, purpose and has the potential to go onto flourish as a young person.

I hope he keeps it up as he begins high school next year."

With your support, we can assist and empower more young people like Leo.