Mathias works in one of our most disadvantaged communities. As a Learning for Life Coordinator, he connects disadvantaged students with the ongoing support they need to make the most of their education.
“School teachers refer students to me when they sense something’s up. For example, if a student can’t afford to go on an excursion, or he can’t do his homework because there’s no internet at home, or he’s always going hungry at morning tea time, I get a call,” says Mathias.
Disadvantaged students often start school already behind. Often their parents aren’t able to help them with their homework and they don’t have access to role models who can help them build aspirations. By the time these students reach Years 9 and 10, they may have disengaged with their learning and be at risk of dropping out early.
Our online mentoring program iTrack is for students in Years 9 to 11. Students are matched with a supportive adult mentor who gives them valuable guidance about study, workplace and career opportunities. Mathias sees first-hand how this can transform a student’s attitude towards their education.
“Recently we had our first iTrack. One student said, ‘I got into iTrack because I wanted to get out of class,’” said Mathias.
“[Afterwards] he actually said, ‘I really didn't want to do iTrack, but after having done it for so many weeks I really enjoyed it and I've learnt a lot from my mentor.’”
