Kellie's Story

My time at Youthreach has been one of the best experiences of my life overall for me. I first came to Youthreach when I was 15 after leaving school. I did my Junior Cert but I never really felt settled or happy in school. Some of my relatives had been in Youthreach and told me about it so I decided to give it a try. As soon as I came to Youthreach NGGST I felt really welcomed and supported by all the staff, and I think this helped me to settle in very quickly. I would recommend Youthreach to anyone that’s thinking of joining, it has so done so much for me and helped me in so many ways.

For me personally it was one of the best decisions I have ever made, as Youthreach NGGST helped me both for with my education and also socially.

My time in the centre has made me lot more confident and really helped me to believe in myself more regarding my learning. This was something I always lacked confidence in when I was in school. I personally think that secondary school just isn’t for everyone which is okay; it wasn’t for me and didn’t suit me but Youthreach does. All the QQI Modules are interesting but my favourite was Health Related Fitness. I think one of the best things about Youthreach NGGST is no matter what career or job you want in the future they will go above and beyond for you in any way they can to try and make it possible. The staff and the Youthreach Advocate will go through every option that is available to you so you can find a way to get where you want to be. I think is amazing as I think that’s something you might worry about when leaving or have left school, well I did anyway. It is great to have people helping you take the next step like a PLC course or an apprenticeship.

So overall I think Youthreach is a great opportunity for young people – it gives people a second chance at education and it’s also a great way to make friends. I have made some amazing friends and have so many great memories of Youthreach NGGST which I will aways be grateful for. In September I will be attending Liberties College to study Social Care at QQI Level 5 which I’m really excited about. I am very grateful to Youthreach NGGST as I don’t think I would have got there without their support and encouragement over the past couple of years.