Marc's Story

Reflecting on this work, Marc says:

"I have enjoyed my time with the supportive school structure. The role has opened opportunities for me to understand the school community as a whole and experience the power of collaboration. Being around and working with a different set of colleagues has allowed me to learn and shape my practice. Thanks to the opportunity to take part in national and local activity around The Promise, I'm now in a much better place to connect and navigate people across our school community.

I have learned that a fast pace doesn't always ensure more productivity, and that moving at the pace of the young person allows a more authentic relationship to grow. I have been forced at points to bring my whole self to the role and really be present for young people. While this has at times taken a leap of faith for me, it has allowed my confidence to grow and has taught me many things about myself.

I am now kinder to myself and have a greater awareness of what I can and can't control. For example, I often can't control the outcome, but I can control my response, my pace, and my commitment to the role. This knowledge has allowed me to become more comfortable in myself, to question with curiosity, and to build my self-belief.

The increase in my confidence as a practitioner has not only improved my insight but also my practice. I am much more prepared, proactive, and far less inhibited by hierarchy. I have now been accepted onto a Social Work degree, and this role has been the catalyst for me to apply and embrace the changes this will bring."