A fresh START for Spencer
Spencer comes from a large, unstable family and this was seriously affecting his studies. When he wasn't skipping school altogether, he was often late, confrontational and unfocused. Worried that he might fail all his GCSEs, Spencer's school referred him to the START programme at the Lyric Theatre, Hammersmith.
Upon arrival, Spencer's new tutors discovered that he could barely read, so they started him on small, achievable challenges that would slowly enable him to gain the basic skills he lacked. This approach, combined with START's non-traditional format, worked well. Spencer leapt at the chance to show off his performing talents and the programme gave him a much-needed safe space away from his own family. His confidence gradually increased and he began to take responsibility for his learning.
As a result, Spencer's attendance and punctuality improved dramatically. He finished START with a recognised literacy and numeracy qualification (equivalent to a good GCSE) massive progress in just six weeks. He then completed a work experience placement that START helped to arrange before starting at sixth form college. He also works as an usher at the theatre and has been elected to its youth advisory panel.
Click here to find out more about how the Lyric Theatre is giving students like Spencer a fresh start at school.
