Pride of Guernsey: Helena Pearson

Helena spent seven years as a learning mentor, supporting young people who were struggling in lessons. She then joined the Youth Commission at the end of 2021, becoming the head of education and wellbeing, where she has continued her work to support young people going through challenging times.

During her time as a learning mentor, she particularly connected with one person.

‘I had the most awful experience in school,’ said her nominator, Derry McLaren.

‘I rarely attended towards the end. But this learning support teacher helped me to get where I am today by making other learning arrangements and making extra support available for me every minute when I was in school.

‘Unfortunately I still left with no GCSEs that I could use, but I left knowing I was cared for, and that one staff member really cared about me on a personal level.

‘She always told me I was capable of anything I wanted.

‘I am now working in one of the largest financial companies in the world.

‘Thank you, Miss Pearson.’