Learn about our Youth Worker, Eleanor Morrison, for Thrive Wisbech & Thomas Clarkson Academy
What is the main focus of your job?
The main focus of my job is to identify and serve the faith needs of young people in Wisbech by building the relationship between Thomas Clarkson Academy and the Church. At the moment, with Thrive Youth Work, I am delivering one to one mentoring, this will develop into a wider mentoring programme, and other youth work, offered under the ‘Thrive’ banner
What do you most enjoy about your work?
Every day is different. It’s a real privilege to build trusted relationships with young people, knowing that I make a real difference in how they see themselves or their situation. From a personal perspective, my role enables me to put God at the centre of my life. I know that I am working in service to the community and bringing the love of God to young people. It’s one of the most rewarding things I have ever done.
What do you find challenging about your role?
There are lots of challenging aspects to the role. Working one to one with teenagers in vulnerable and complex situations needs patience, emotional intelligence and compassion. Thomas Clarkson is secular and is statistically one of the most challenging schools in the country. It has over 1200 students and I have new referrals for my support every day. Making best use of my time and managing expectations of the different stakeholders in my role can be challenging. I work with the local church, the school, the Diocese on the Changing Market Towns project and with Thrive. I am employed 3 days a week, so I have to stay focussed.
How does your role work fit into Ely2025/CMT Strategy?
My work is primarily connected to the lever; SERVE the community.
I am in service to the school on behalf of the church by; being a positive and visible presence among staff and students, being a listening and reflective ear for all I come into contact with. As well as mentoring and general pastoral care I am also looking towards supporting the faith needs of young people and others surrounding the school. A key part of the role is navigating this sensitively, over time and in a secular context.
What brought you to the Diocese of Ely?
The Changing Market Towns project has offered me an opportunity to work locally, but with wider mission support. It is exciting to be part of a programme of large-scale change and to see the work of the church developing. This role gives me the opportunity to combine my skills as a coach with my faith. I was born in Ely and confirmed there, so I have a personal connection too.
I couldn’t do my job without …
The support of all the staff at Thomas Clarkson, who have welcomed me wholeheartedly and treat me as part of the school community. The students who choose to come and spend time with me. Natasha Clark at the Diocesan office for her guidance and inspiration. Rev. Matthew Bradbury and the team at Wisbech, for trusting, praying with and supporting me. Kristy who volunteers as my supervisor mentor and is amazing. The support from my husband is also invaluable.
What do you do to relax or have fun?
I love to read and usually have around several books on the go! I enjoy running and last set up a community running group in my village. I am passionate about volunteering, and am involved with my local branch of the National Childbirth Trust. When I get some time to myself I book a spa or horse ride to relax. Spending time with my family is a real priority for me and I enjoy days out at the seaside, using our National Trust passes or going swimming. I also spend a lot of time supporting daughter’s hockey commitments which involves; training, matches, standing in the rain and cheering, driving, washing and paying for stuff!
How do people get in touch with you?
Contact me by email thrivewisbech@gmail.com or by phone 07851510134. (Monday-Wednesday)