Photography Aids Teenagers Experiencing Anxiety in Re-engaging with Education

Adolescents who have been absent from mainstream schooling due to anxiety and mental health challenges are utilizing photography to reconnect with learning. Amelie, 16, has received her education at home since the Covid-lockdowns began. She participated in a 16-week program, which forms part of the Friends and Networks project administered by Suffolk County Council. She stated: “I’ve really changed, it was amazing. I came out really happy and kind of a new person, more sociable and happy to learn.” The Department for Education has provided funding for this initiative, which targets children and young individuals aged 8-16 experiencing emotional based school avoidance (EBSA) or possessing special education needs and disabilities (SEND), and whose school attendance levels are at or below 60%. This is a ‘test and learn’ program, designed to identify the most effective methods for assisting young people. Maria Hough, Deputy Headteacher for Specialist Education Services, commented: “We work with schools and families to re-engage children in activities to raise their confidence and help them to reframe. “So far we have worked with over 250 children and young people and seen some lovely outcomes such as the wonderful work in this project.” The project offers courses in various creative arts and practical skills, with young participants convening once a week in small groups alongside a professional practitioner. Gillian Allard conducted photography sessions, which included field trips to sites such as Sutton Hoo, located near Woodbridge, and Christchurch Park in Ipswich. Participants also employed digital editing and graphics tools to create images that have been exhibited at Woodbridge library and Ipswich County library. Ms Allard remarked: “Having a visual voice is very different to having a spoken voice. “The kind of silent thought that goes on within, can come out through the camera. “It really does give the participants, and everyone that comes to see the exhibition, an insight into who they are.” Charlotte’s 15-year-old daughter, Phoebe, has been out of school for a year. Speaking to BBC Radio Suffolk, Charlotte shared: “She was struggling to leave the house, just isolated herself due to anxieties.”It took a lot of prep and encouragement to get her to do it [the photography course] but once she did, it’s just been so rewarding.”For her to see this portfolio at home, we’ve been able to show family members.”It just reaffirms that you can do things, you can achieve things, even if you are anxious. “There’s a big wide world out there and there will be a path waiting for you.” The Friends and Networks exhibition is currently on display at Ipswich County Library on Northgate St, and will run until 12 December.