DW

D is an 18 year old young man who comes from a large single parent family. D recalls his school days as being generally unpleasant and believes that he was generally misunderstood. Whilst at school D faced several exclusions which he claims was mainly down to his witty personality which didn’t ‘go down too well’ with some teachers. D has a great sense of humour however he is not sure how to adapt in different environments and when his behaviour is perceived as negative he tended to respond in a negative many.

D spent a significant period of his Key stage 3 schooling in alternative education provisions and as a result was referred to Leeds Reach for additional support. D’s placement at Leeds Reach was successful and he was re-integrated back into his host school. His schooling thereafter wasn’t the best but he managed to remain on roll but left with little qualifications. Following the end of his compulsory schooling D attended a number of E2E (Entry to Employment) programmes and enrolled onto a short course at college studying construction. Unfortunately his placement was terminated with tutors referring to him as the class clown.

A few months past and D was referred to the Barnardo’s Believe Programme in March 2008 and successfully completed the 12 week programme. D successfully gained employment with a local organisation that works with young people to increase academic abilities via sport and numeracy/literacy activities. D completed his application attended an interview and was called back for a second interview. D was successful in his 2nd interview and currently works 17 hours per week at Playing for success were 12 hours is paid work and 5 hours are voluntary. D has also been researching local long and short term college courses.
D has realised his future goals and would like to work with young people who have been in less fortunate situations (like himself) whose experience of school has been negative.

D also offers his services to the Leeds Reach & Barnardo’s Believe Programme, Engaging in Young People Volunteer workshops and informing other young people on the programme about his journey and the opportunities and benefits within volunteering.

In addition to this he also volunteers for Leeds Reach attending summer projects representing the organisation on young people panels and has accessed a free training course in youth work.