Throughout the year, we have worked closely with pupils in Perth Grammar School’s ‘Facing the Future’ group which helps young people with a range of support needs to prepare for the transition from secondary school. Our Recovery and Development Officer for Young People spent time getting to know the group and building positive relationships. The group visited the Walled Garden on several occasions and engaged in therapeutic activities including creative arts, baking, and gardening.
Following the time spent with the group, two young people were referred to our service as part of their School Leaver’s Plan. Both had been struggling with their anxiety and social skills and there were concerns about how they would manage without the routine and structure of the school environment.
Nicola has been engaging with creative arts activities and has settled in well. She is already talking enthusiastically about her time with the service and has started to build positive relationships while developing social skills. Her confidence is growing and she is showing signs of increasing independence.
John has been involved in gardening activities and there is a visible improvement in his social and group work skills. He has been developing relationships with positive role models and is gaining valuable experience in preparation for beginning a college course in horticulture in September.
The young peoples’ parents have talked enthusiastically about the positive impact the service is having on the young people and the benefit the structured and supportive environment plays in easing the transition from secondary to higher education.
