There are many indicators which might signal that a student is experiencing academic or personal difficulties. You should be particularly concerned if
- the student has directly divulged a problem to you
- the student’s attendance has noticeably declined, or the student has consistently poor attendance
- the student’s academic performance has significantly declined
- you have noticed recent changes in the student’s behaviour
- you have noticed significant changes in the student’s mood and/or appearance (e.g. changes in weight, personal hygiene, appearing withdrawn or hyperactive)
- you have smelt alcohol or cannabis on the student on a regular basis
- other staff or students have raised concerns with you
You should not ignore any concerns you have about a student’s well-being. You should arrange to meet with your tutee so that you can address the situation and provide interventions as appropriate. You need to act sensitively in the way that you raise your concerns with the student. Begin by engaging them in general conversation and ask them how things are going. Give them sufficient space to talk and listen to their responses. If necessary, gently use your questioning skills to probe a little further. If you believe that the student is experiencing difficulties then you will need to identify appropriate interventions that could be made. If the difficulties are not of an academic nature, or fall outside the boundaries of your experience, you will need to discuss referral to other support services with the student.