Alys Shows Up

SOHK is my motivation for being good in school - I want to stay so I can come in and tell you I’ve had a good week!

Alys* has been part of the School of Hard Knocks (SOHK) programme since Year 7. Two years on, she looks back and sees just how far she’s come - in confidence, behaviour, and belief in herself. 

Alys lives with her dad and step-mum, and speaks warmly about both. Her early life was marked by significant challenges: she and her siblings were removed from their mother’s care as young children due to her mother’s struggles. Alys was placed with her dad, while her siblings went to live in different homes. Though she no longer has contact with her mum, she describes a close and supportive relationship with her dad and step-mum.  

When Alys joined SOHK, she was part of a big friendship group that “messed around a lot” and often got into trouble. She admits she liked to make people laugh - sometimes at the expense of following the rules. Her relationships with teachers were sometimes strained, and her confidence and self-esteem were low. 

But through weekly sessions with SOHK, things began to change. Alys says her behaviour at school has improved massively, and part of that much of this is down to wanting to share good news of her progress with the SOHK team.  

“I almost got taken off the programme because I was doing so well,” she says with a grin, “but I said, SOHK is my motivation for being good in school - I want to stay so I can come in and tell you I’ve had a good week!” 

Her self-confidence has grown steadily, as has her sense of purpose. Alys has developed a real love for rugby and now plays for her school team. She’s also taken part in multiple SOHK festivals and has developed great relationships with the staff, who she says she knows she can lean on for support, if and when she needs it.  

Looking ahead, Alys has clear goals. She wants to work with children and is choosing GCSE to help her on that path. She’s excited about going to college and becoming independent. 

From the SOHK delivery team: 

Alys is an absolute star. She brings energy and positivity every week, and it’s been incredible to see her mature into someone who lifts others up too. She’s honest, driven, and has a huge heart — we’re so proud of how far she’s come.

*Name and image have been changed to protect the identity of our beneficiary.