Check and Connect is a student support programme used in Ramsgrange Community School to strengthen students’ engagement with school and learning. It is based on the powerful idea that every young person benefits from having “one good adult” who notices them, listens to them, and offers steady support.
In RCS, all teachers and SNA's are trained and delivering the programme. The approach has four key parts: an adult mentor, regular checking-in, individualised support, and stronger home-school communication.
The “check” part involves noticing how a student is getting on: their attendance, participation, mood, organisation, relationships, and general connection with school. The “connect” part is the response: a trusted adult builds a positive relationship with the student, helps them talk through difficulties, encourages them, and links them with the right supports when needed.
At its heart, Check and Connect is not about judging students or focusing only on problems. It is about connection, belonging and early support. A teacher or mentor may have a short conversation with a student, help them set a goal, encourage better routines, celebrate progress, or simply be a calm, reliable person they can turn to.
The programme reflects the values of Ramsgrange Community School by helping students feel seen, valued and supported. It recognises that when a young person has a positive relationship with an adult in school, they are more likely to attend, engage, ask for help, and believe in their own potential.
Check and Connect also supports communication between school and home, so that parents and guardians can be part of the support network around the student. Overall, it is a caring and practical programme that helps students stay connected to school, learning and their own success.