Life before the implant
Before receiving a cochlear implant in 2023, Charlton faced daily challenges in mainstream school, at the Pebbles Project After-School Club, and at home. He had severe challenges in the classroom where he would act out in aggression towards his peers and educator. He did not respond to all instructions that were given to him and often needed to be reprimanded for doing the wrong thing during activities. His academic progress reports were poor as he achieved low marks and showed no interest in learning and participating.
Life after the implant
Since receiving his cochlear implant at the age of 7, Charlton has gone from strength to strength. He was transferred to a mainstream public school where staff are specifically trained to facilitate learning to children with hearing impairments. He receives support from his family members as well as from the staff at Pebbles Project. His attitude towards schooling is very positive and he looks forward to attending school. He is not receiving any assessment concessions and functioning alongside his peers in the classroom. His behavior at school is described as well-mannered and adaptable. His academic progress reports now reveal codes of 6’s and 7’s (highest achievements). He also does not present with any indications of anxiety, fear or emotional disturbances and he is currently thriving in his environments.