News Archive

Kerry Arbuckle
Connections editorial intern

A program connecting Avondale College students with those from a local high school is not only benefiting the mentored but the mentors as well.

B Somebody 2 Someone, developed by chaplain Dr Wayne French four years ago, connects theology students at Avondale with students from Avondale School. It gives the theology students experience in building relationships with teenagers, "which is a vital part of their future ministry," says Wayne.

James London, a first-year Bachelor of Theology/Bachelor of Ministry student, says B Somebody 2 Someone is about "letting the high school students know they're not going through things alone and that we can learn something from them as well." The latter is important, says James. "The high school students live for the day and that is something we as college students need to remember to do. With all of our studies, it is sometimes hard to do."

Peter Lindsay, head of secondary at Avondale School, notes the positive change in the high school students who participate in the program: they are more motivated, particularly in class. "This past year, a number of students stayed in touch with their mentor because they found the experience beneficial." He also notes how "significantly enthusiastic" the college students are.

The response of participating high school students is overwhelmingly positive. In one case, where a college student and a high student did not connect, the high school student still spoke highly of the experience and recommended the program to others. According to Peter, almost all answers to the question, "Did the program run long enough?" are, "No."

The teachers at Avondale School are supportive of the program and recommend students who might be struggling emotionally or lacking motivation or who show leadership potential.-with Kirsten Bolinger