Case Study

Sabine is a 13-year-old girl who is regularly truant from school. Her mother has explained that although she tries every day to make Sabine attend school, there is nothing she can do to ensure that she does; even if she drives her to the school gates, Sabine will often not be present at her form’s registration. The situation at home has recently been difficult for Sabine, her mother also said. Her 18-year-old sister has recently given birth to a son, and the baby’s crying aggravates Sabine and often wakes her up in the night. It is only recently, within the last year or so, that Sabine has lost interest in her education. In primary school she was often described as a very bright girl, and she enjoyed drama and excelled at maths. Her father was the figure of authority in the house, but recently the two parents have become estranged and he has been living and working away. He has always been very supportive and interested in his daughter’s education. Sabine’s mother has said that if he could be involved and informed then he could be a great help in motivating Sabine to go to school, but the situation between them is strained and she seems reluctant to contact him herself.

1. What would you do in this situation?

It is rare that there is just one way to respond to a scenario or situation, so do not consider that the responses you have to the above scenario will be judged as right or wrong. Share your scenario with a work colleague or friend and ask them to tell you whether they think you have responded appropriately. Ask them to challenge your response if necessary. You do not need to submit this task for assessment unless asked to do so by your assessor.