Nicole's Story

Background

Nicole is 14 and previously looked after. Nicole lives with her mum and dad and has two other sisters who have recently left the house. One has been taken into care, and the other has moved out. Despite living in the family home, Nicole also had a lot of duties involving caring for her Grampa and staying at his house throughout the week. Nicole's attendance at school was impacted as a result. She often would find it difficult to make and maintain friendships, making school a place where she did not feel the most welcome or valued.

Intervention

Karina began working with Nicole in December of 2024. This occurred through making connections with Miss Hamilton, the Academy's Care Experience lead and one of Nicole's favourite teachers, with whom she already had a trusting relationship with. Nicole will often go to Miss Hamilton to chat and will spend time in her classroom during breaktimes and lunchtimes. Karina and Miss Hamilton would also often take part in the Champions Board lunchtime drop in to spend time with the care experienced pupils who chose to partake, thus building a positive association with Karina as a new face.

Activities & Participation

Karina got to know Nicole by spending quality time with her, both in and out of school. It was clear to Karina that Nicole craved a stable, caring adult in her life. Someone with whom she could rely on. Karina would put in place experiences that Nicole may not have gotten to take part in in a normal school setting, such as baking goods that Nicole had always wanted to, but did not have access to. Karina supported Nicole to attended multiple residentials at Dolphin House and Inverclyde Sports Centre.

Impact

The impact of the Supportive School Structure on Nicole has been very positive. Nicole has felt supported throughout the project and has a new outlook towards school and education. She is able to take ownership of her achievements and continues to grow confident and independent as she makes choices that will impact her future. She has been experiencing success in school by showing keen interests in her newly chosen S3 subjects and trying her very best.

Reflection

Even though Karina has stepped into a new role, Nicole continues to rely on her within her school and will frequently spend lunches and break in Karina's room and will pop in between classes. The legacy of the project has created this relationship, where Nicole feels supported and empowered.