Youth work training programme

SUBMITTED

Golden Bay’s youth sector is to receive a boast, with a training programme designed to help youth workers and youth volunteers attain an entry level qualification in Youth Work.

The Fundamentals of Youth Work Programme provides participants with support as they work towards a NZQA Level 3, 44 credit Certificate in Youth Work. The qualification is targeted at new or potential entrants into the youthwork sector, including those currently working (paid or voluntary) with youth.

Participants will develop skills and competencies to enable them to support young people in a culturally and ethically safe way.

The qualification provides a pathway for entry into careers in the youth-development sector, and gives access to subjects that may not have been offered in the school curriculum.

The interactive training program will be delivered by a team of experienced youth and community workers, who are affiliated to the Nelson Tasman Youth Workers Collective. The main part of the training will be delivered in Kotinga Hall during the Easter school holidays, 17-21 April. Class times are 9am5pm.

After the training week, participants will have four months to evidence putting their learning into practice in their workplace, or where they volunteer. Ongoing mentoring and support will be provided along with opportunities to participate in shared learning initiatives.

Nelson Tasman Youth Workers Collective co- ordinator Paul McConachie is excited to be bringing the programme to Golden Bay for the first time.

“There are some amazing youth development programmes already in place in Golden Bay, that are making such a positive difference to the lives of young people and the community as a whole, “ says Paul. “A greater pool of locally based youth workers and young leaders who have the skills, knowledge and competencies to support rangatahi will ensure these programmes continue to meet the needs of our community.”

Participation in the training programme is free, thanks to funding received from the Department of Internal Affairs, Rata Foundation, Tasman District Council, Network Tasman Trust and support from Golden Bay Workcentre Trust. Spaces are limited, so interested people are encouraged to register their interest with Tullia Wilson, at the Youth Habitat (see advertisement on this page). An information session about the training and respective qualification is being held on Wednesday 23 February, 5-6pm, at the Golden Bay Workcentre Trust, 84 Commercial Street. All interested participants (and parents) are encouraged to attend.