Jade contacted Sussex Downs College during a stage in her life where she was desperate to make a change. She had been fired from her job, was not attending college, and lacked focus to her daily life; causing her confidence and self-esteem plummeted.

Living in care, with a turbulent relationship with her Mum, Jade is a girl that has been through it all and considers herself fortunate to still be with us today. Her past and present is scarred with issues of self-harm, substance misuse and a handful of attempts upon her own life. But despite the perils of her situation, Jade’s opt-IN tutor claims to have never encountered a student so strong-willed or determined to succeed.

Jade is the first to arrive at college every day, and the first to support others above herself that may be struggling or in need of a friend. She is considered a massive asset to the group in both her leadership and care for others, and the opt-IN tutors say they cannot help but feel inspired by her own selflessness. Jade receives daily calls from Social Services, YOT, Connexions, and CAMHS, along with many others, and everyday she puts a smile on her face and welcomes the work or activity given to her.

Jade has been with opt-IN for little over 5 months and in this time has grown massively as an individual and thrived from the experiences and opportunities given to her. She is driven and determined, recently being accepted on Hairdressing NVQ course after an outstanding performance at interview. Jade has also been awarded two ‘Student of the Week’ certificates for her outstanding effort and achievement within the group.

In addition to her full participation in sessions, Jade often takes work home to finish or continue, doing her best for each assignment. The students recently developed, planned and delivered their own mini-sessions on a subject of their choice. Jade led an excellent session on Drug Abuse which was well planned and delivered.  She was very open about her own experiences and her tutors were impressed by her knowledge, chosen activities and her confidence.  

Jade now sees herself as on track to succeed. Sussex Downs College have said how proud they are of Jade and the accomplishments she has achieved in their time with them. She stayed with opt-IN up until September, enrolling into the summer programme to continue improving in her literacy and numeracy skills. Jade really enjoyed the Vocational Tasters available and the opportunity to wear overalls!

Jade says of her time with opt-IN; “When I started there I was still drinking a lot, but after a while I stopped because I wanted to do my hairdressing and opt-in supported me though everything. Also if I had not started opt-in I could be inside. I used opt-in to help me get a job but got into college doing hairdressing instead. If it not for opt-in I would still be drinking and homeless.”