These students are called ‘young carers’, and school is only one part of their very busy and often stressful day.

What makes a Young Carer

At home, they’re playing a key role in managing the household – cooking dinner, bathing and dressing their siblings, giving medication and paying bills.

These Young Carers are aged between 5 and 25-years-old, and they have to take on these significant caregiving roles because they have a parent or family member who has a disability or illness, is ageing, has a mental health issue or has substance misuse problems. Alongside their education, many also hold down part-time jobs to support their family financially.

How it impacts them

These responsibilities can have a significant impact on a young carer’s ability to engage with school. Many face ongoing disruptions to their learning and struggle to balance a normal school life with their caring role.

Making it even more challenging is that many young carers don’t recognise themselves as young carers – they know no other way. As a result they often carry their responsibilities silently, believing they have no choice and nowhere to turn for support.

Knowing the signs

If you know there’s a young carer in your classroom, you’ll be able to provide them with the additional support they need and refer them to specialist services like Young Carers SA. While every young person is different, here are some common signs:

  • Low attendance – the student might be frequently absent or arrive late without a clear explanation.
  • Fatigue or distraction – they often appear tired, unfocused or may even fall asleep in class.
  • Falling behind in schoolwork – their homework or assignments are incomplete, inconsistent or always late.
  • Socially withdrawn – they rarely join extracurricular activities, don’t seem to have many friends in the schoolyard, or they avoid social events with peers.
  • Maturity beyond their years – they might display an uncommon level of responsibility or adult-like behaviour compared to their classmates. 

What you can do

When young carers are seen, heard and supported, they can achieve and participate more at school and in their community. It can only take one teacher noticing and reaching out to make a difference. 

By understanding and offering to connect students with the support we offer, teachers can ensure every young carer has the chance to succeed. Simply tell them to visit our website at www.youngcarerssa.com.au or follow us on Facebook and Instagram to find out more.