‘Check & Connect’ Programme

Check and Connect – NBSS

ALL Teachers are currently trained and delivering this programme in RCS.

Check and Connect is an intervention designed to enhance a student’s engagement at school and with learning. NBSS team members work with partner schools on the implementation of this intervention which consists of four key elements:

  1. An adult mentor who keeps education relevant for students.
  2. Systematic monitoring (the “check” component).
  3. Timely and individualised intervention (the “connect” component).
  4. Enhancing home-school communication and home support for learning.

In NBSS partner schools teachers volunteer to become mentors. The mentors:

  • Work to create positive relationships with a young person, his/her family and school.
  • Promote regular school participation in academic, social and emotional learning.
  • Keep school progress a relevant issue for the student and parents.

Each mentor links with one student, checking in regularly with that student to discuss how they are doing and offering support in a number of ways. For example:

  • Providing ongoing, consistent and timely monitoring of a student’s behaviour for signs of withdrawal and disengagement: lates, absences, skipped classes, failing tests, falling behind with homework, conduct sheets, detentions, suspensions, etc.
  • Implementing timely interventions/supports to ensure student achievement and well being, when appropriate.
  • Working with other teachers, management and other support staff to help the student be successful.
  • Problem solving with the student when difficulties arise

NBSS team members work with partner schools on the planning, implementation and mentor training for the Check and Connect intervention.