AN IPSWICH CAMPUS STUDENT STORY
Imogen (Immy), a student at The BUSY School Ipswich Campus, has faced more challenges in her young life than many can imagine. Yet, her story is one of hope, transformation, and the profound impact that a supportive environment can have on a young person’s life.
Growing up, Immy’s home life was far from ideal. “I have a really bad background,” she confided. “I am very sweet, but I can get very angry very easily.” Her parents struggled with addiction, leading to neglect that left Immy and her siblings without basic necessities like lunch and uniforms for school.
Her life took another heartbreaking turn five months ago when her beloved granddad passed away just days before her birthday. Despite this loss, Immy’s strength and resilience began to shine through.
School had always been a battleground for Immy. Her grades suffered, and bullying was an inescapable part of her day-to-day existence. “Honestly, school life was horrible,” she recalled. “Teachers wouldn’t help me, I was in class with 32 other students, I would try to do my work, but I would get told it was wrong. I never felt like I got the help I really needed.”
Immy recently found solace at The BUSY School’s Ipswich Campus. Initially, she was apprehensive. “At first, I didn’t want to be here, I didn’t want to show up because I didn’t know what it was going to be like. But halfway through day one, I realised people were nice and not grouping you out and talking about you behind your back or bullying you for how you look. Everyone seemed happy, and since that first day I’ve turned my frown upside down.”
The BUSY School’s approach was a revelation for Immy. “School isn’t scary anymore here at The BUSY School,” she said. “People aren’t in groups. Teachers are playing pool with you and sitting down to talk with you. You feel like it’s a home and everyone is family. Everyone is so nice. Your teachers don’t walk away from you. They help you in class more than anyone else would.”
In just six days, Immy felt a profound change. “I love this school. I’ve been here for six days and I already feel like I belong,” she exclaimed. “This school is so much better for me.”
Immy’s transformation is nothing short of inspiring. From a girl who would stay up all night and cry, she has blossomed into someone who looks forward to each day. “I was crying and sleeping – I felt lazy and had no point in life but then I came to The BUSY School and everyone makes me feel special and loved – everyone here has got a different story, people have backgrounds of their own and might also have bad things going on at home. We all have things going on I guess.”
She has also discovered her passions and future aspirations. “I definitely know what I want to work towards now! Childcare and hospitality – I adore kids and I love cooking,” she shared.
Immy’s message to other struggling students is clear and powerful: “Everyone deserves a second chance – the point is coming in, getting a job, and growing up to be who you want to be, maybe a good parent or someone with a job making money. Even if you’ve done something bad, everyone deserves to be able to come back in and restart their life. All you need to do is show up, show your respect, wear your shirt, and do the work. Don’t just sit around waiting for someone to give you a second chance. Don’t wait for it to come to you.”
The BUSY School has not only provided Immy with a safe and supportive environment but has also given her the tools to rebuild her life. “I don’t think I was a very good person but as soon as I came here, I have changed. I happily come to school and have a smile on my face. At my other school, I didn’t do the work. Here, I do every last bit of work because it’s fun.”
Immy’s story is a testament to the power of a nurturing educational environment and the changes that can occur when students are given the support and respect they deserve. Her journey may inspire hope for others, showing that with the right support, anyone can transform their life and find their path to happiness and success.
Since starting at The BUSY School, Immy has reconnected with her education and is now enjoying school.
