Sienna's Story

Like many 14 year olds, Sienna* loves the more creative subjects at school, including studying dance and cooking. She loves animals and hopes to study to be a vet once she finishes High School. Learning from home was not new to Sienna. Living with social anxiety and other mental health issues meant she had been learning remotely for the past two years.  

 But as one of five siblings, the isolation brought about by the coronavirus pandemic meant that studying at home suddenly became much more crowded and challenging.  

 A change in circumstances at home also meant that Sienna no longer had access to the computer and study aids that she relied on. As a single income family relying on government assistance, Sienna’s mum didn’t have the capacity to replace the essential items she needed to continue to learn from home. 

 With the family experiencing increased social isolation due to COVID-19, Sienna was missing out on the chance to keep up with her studies and stay connected to her teacher and school friends.   

 Thanks to Variety’s Tech 4 Schools grant, Sienna received a laptop package that means she can continue her year 10 studies.

 Sienna’s mum says that she is able to focus on her studies now she has the education technology she needs to learn from home. 

 “Sienna previously had to share access to a computer to access her distance education. Now that she has her own laptop, it’s much easier for her to do her work and organise her studies. She can now stay focused. Thank you very much for the support and making the girls lives and futures brighter.” 

 *Name changed for confidentiality