Case Study | Building Confidence and Connection Through Mentoring

A young person was referred to Positive Futures after experiencing ongoing challenges in forming and maintaining positive peer relationships since starting senior school. Despite past experiences of bullying—both as a victim and, at times, a perpetrator—the young person showed a strong desire to grow, connect, and better understand their emotions.

With support from the school’s ELSA Lead and a clear commitment to change, the young person demonstrated resilience, self-awareness, and a willingness to engage in support that could help them thrive socially and emotionally.

Strengths-Based Goals and Support Plan

Together with the young person, we co-developed a support plan focused on:

• Building positive relationships through trust and consistency.
• Developing confidence by recognising and celebrating strengths.
• Improving communication skills to support peer interaction and emotional expression.

Mentoring Support Delivered

Over 11 hours of one-to-one mentoring, the young person explored a range of topics designed to build emotional intelligence, self-awareness, and social confidence:

• Understanding the effects and consequences of decision-making
• Exploring respectful behaviours and managing peer pressure
• Reflecting on identity, self-confidence, and future aspirations
• Learning strategies to manage school-related stress and bullying
• Strengthening skills in goal setting, relationship building, and self-regulation

Outcomes and Growth

The young person’s MindStar score improved from 29 to 31, with a notable increase in the “school, training and work” domain—indicating greater engagement and reduced truancy. School staff also reported improved attendance and a more positive attitude toward learning.

Impact Reflections

Teacher Feedback:

“I feel our student has learnt a lot of skills to help him manage any issues he has ongoing in school time and feel he knows how to put them practices in place rather than the situation escalating.”

Young Person Feedback:

“Thanks for everything Lee. I’m going to miss these sessions every week, but I know what I need to do to improve.”
“I really enjoyed my time with Lee and if the opportunity ever came around again I would love to have more sessions.”

To celebrate the young person’s progress and reinforce their achievements, a final reward session at McDonald’s was held—recognising their commitment and growth, and encouraging continued positive engagement.

This case highlights how consistent, strengths-based mentoring can empower young people to build confidence, improve relationships, and take ownership of their emotional wellbeing and future.