Alex* was referred to the TEACHaR program with challenging behaviours stemming from his trauma history. These experiences limited his school attendance, and on the days he did attend, he was not engaged with his learning or the school community. Despite repeated attempts to reach out to him, Alex refused to comply with school rules and was frequently suspended. Since graduating from the TEACHaR program, Alex has increased his engagement with learning, repaired relationships with his school, made academic progress in English and maths and cultivated a growth mindset and a belief that he can achieve and reach his potential.
“I have enjoyed the TEACHaR program. Melissa (AV education specialist) has greatly helped me with my education. She always encouraged me and reminded me about important things that were coming up. I got lots of certificates and have achieved so much. In the future, I will try to keep up with my achievements and complete my VCAL (Victorian Certificate of Applied Learning) to get a good job and help to look after my family.” – Alex*, TEACHaR participant
HELPING MORE YOUNG PEOPLE
This year, new funding has allowed the program to support more of AV’s residential care, bushfire recovery and therapeutic care programs.
TEACHAR INDIGENOUS EDUCATION STRATEGY
A first in Victoria, the strategy was developed by AV in consultation with Indigenous organisations. The strategy began as a grassroots initiative by staff seeking to work better with our Indigenous students.
INAUGURAL STEPHEN NEWTON SCHOLARSHIP
Established this year to honour retired AV Chairperson Stephen Newton, the scholarship is awarded to Year 12 students in AV’s Out-of-Home Care, including the TEACHaR program. Students receive access to funding for school support and an education mentor to support their final year at school.
THE LONG SHADOW OF COVID
Since the start of 2022, teachers and students have been happy to be back working face-to-face again, though some schools faced staff shortages due to COVID and flu sickness and were forced to return to remote education. This has further underlined the need for specialised programs such as TEACHaR to help children deal with a disrupted education environment.
The 2022 Annual report can be found on our website.
To request a hard copy of this report, call us on 1800 809 722.
