Patrick’s story
Growing up in Belfast, Patrick faced significant challenges at home and in school, and his attendance began to slip. At age 12, he joined the Pathways Project, an alternative education programme for young people at risk of exclusion. With support from his mentor, Glen, he enrolled in The King’s Trust Achieve programme and quickly began to rebuild his confidence.
“The King’s Trust Achieve programme changed my life. It kept me engaged and focused enough to continue my education; despite the challenges I faced.”
Patrick went on to achieve 100% attendance, completing GCSEs in History, Maths and English, plus a King’s Trust qualification equivalent to four GCSEs. He also gained an Irish qualification through a partner school. These achievements enabled him to progress to A Levels and later to university.
Now 20, Patrick is studying Politics and International Studies and is passionate about supporting young people who are struggling in education.
“If you’d told me in my teens that I could achieve this, I wouldn’t have believed you! I’m still involved with the Pathways Project, now as a part time tutor on the Achieve programme.”