LAUNCHING IN SPRING 2025
Developed by Youthscape, a national youth charity, Compass is a bold intervention programme that seeks out those most at-risk and works to change their life trajectory. This six-session series works with those in Year 9, at a decisive time before their GCSE’s begin, giving them practical tools to break destructive patterns, a safe space in which to be listened to, and an empowering boost to their self-esteem.
1. Young people have few, if any, adults ready to listen to them. Creating a safe space for young people to talk about their experiences, their feelings and their fears is crucial and can be transformative.
2. Young people often want to break the cycle of their own behaviour - they just don’t know how or where to start and frequently feel trapped: they need practical steps.
3. Young people’s self-esteem is fundamental to how they engage with others - their peers and their teachers – and how motivated they are to learn. Positive change here is crucial.
Compass has been carefully developed using research, insights from behavioural psychologists, and the experience and skills of our team of youth workers, ex-teachers and social workers.
It’s built around three core beliefs:
We believe Compass can be a significant opportunity for young people to change the trajectory of their lives are a crucial point where it can make a huge difference. Young people participating in the programme will do better at GCSE’s – giving them greater options for the future.
They will be less likely to become NEET and more likely to go into post-16 education or training. Of course, there are lots of factors at play in their lives – some positive and others negative. Compass is not the only influence, but it can create new options and opportunities for young people who feel stuck in how they engage with school. Compass can help point them to a brighter future.
WHO WILL BENEFIT FROM THE COMPASS PROGRAMME?
Students in Year 9 who are:
Disengaged from learning
Have low aspirations
Exhibit challenging behaviour
Withdrawn and non-compliant
Truant or have poor attendance
HOW DOES A STUDENT JOIN COMPASS?
Schools identify young people who will benefit from the programme.
Schools complete a referral form.
Our team will make contact with the school to discuss the referral and confirm a place.
Parent/carer permission is obtained.
A member of our team meets the student. The purpose is to confirm they meet our eligibility requirements, learn more about them and their experiences and, most importantly, engage the student positively with the idea of participating in Compass.
The school and Blank Canvas work together to make arrangements for transport to and from Compass venues.
Programmes commence normally in the first weeks of each academic term.
MEET ABI - COMPASS Programme Lead
Abi oversees the Compass Programme, working with schools and young people. If you wish to refer a young person or discuss Compass further, please get in touch with Abi below
“Before I started Compass, I didn't listen and ignored other people, now I'm listening and respecting other people's ideas.”
Omar, 15, Compass Student