At Compass Community School Victoria Park, outreach is an important part of the support learners receiveāone that helps them stay connected, build confidence and feel part of their community.
Over the summer, the Therapeutic Pastoral Lead (TPL) met with a number of learners who benefit from additional support. These outreach sessions gave them opportunities to navigate public spaces, interact with shop assistants, manage money and try new activities. Each learner took on the challenge with maturity and curiosity. Many asked for these experiences to continue during term time.
Now back in school, that positive energy carried through into the regular TPL-led sessions. Using a resilience framework, learners reflected on their strengths and areas for growthāshowing real insight when identifying what they wanted to work on.
A recent group activity invited learners to share a personal hobby or talent with others and explain why it mattered to them. For some, speaking in front of a group took courageābut every learner took part. Their classmates offered support, listened closely and celebrated each otherās efforts.
Victoria Parkās outreach work, although exemplary, is not unique within the Compass group of schools. Many of Compassā larger schools run clubs in the holidays, which are very popular among parents and learners. In addition to this, therapists and TPL’s routinely stay in touch with pupils to therapeutically support them during the holidays. Depending on the individualās need, this may take the form of a phone call, a postcard/letter, or an in-person visit.
This outreach and ongoing support sessions serve as a clear reminder that therapeutic support doesnāt stop at the classroom door or wait for term to begin. Outreach builds trust and provides a sense of continuity that many learners rely on. By continuing to prioritise this across the school year, Compass Community Schools show their commitment to creating safe, encouraging spaces where learners can grow in confidence and resilienceāevery single day.
