The basics in a nut shell...
Each Personal Leadership Program is facilitated by two accredited Youth Opportunities' Trainers who work with a group of approx 18 Year 10 students, for one day per week over a 10 week period. On any given day the program delivery will include a combination of facilitated group discussion, one-on-one coaching, animated DVD and bookwork. The content of each session varies with trainers addressing a range of topics such as bullying, peer pressure, confidence, self-belief, improving communication, developing relationship skills, and motivation. At the end of the 10 weeks, students participate in a graduation ceremony where they share their experiences from the program and the changes they have made. For two years after they graduate, students also receive follow-up support from Youth Opportunities which consists of annual seminars, individual phone calls and further support where needed. This follow-up provides students with guidance during a critical time in their schooling by reinforcing the concepts they learnt during the Personal Leadership Program.
The reality outside of the nut shell...
We might have specific topics and follow a structure but the PLP isn't like teaching someone maths, history or science. We are teaching people about the impact their decisions have on their lives and how they can better understand their world. This notion is often scary and confronting for young people so it is important for us to create a safe and secure environment in which our students can learn. Our trainers play a significant role in creating this environment by developing relationships that enable them to better understand the individual needs of the student. Our trainers are then able to determine how best to help them.
But unfortunately no matter what we do in our training rooms sometimes we can’t ignore the harsh realities of the world they live in. For some students an environment where they are not judged, bullied or even abused doesn’t exist outside the training room. Therefore in order to create sustainable change we have learnt that our training can’t just remain in the classroom. So we help and encourage our students to positively change their environment by setting weekly challenges that enable students to start practicing what they have learnt in real situations. These challenges not only help students to develop productive habits but they also help them to influence those around them by role modelling positive behaviours and choices. This creates a flow on effect bringing about cultural change within their school and the community.
If you are interested in finding out more about the PLP and our partnerships with schools please contact Joanna Thomas our Programs Manager P: 8240 3133 E:joanna.thomas@youthopportunities.asn.au
Or if you would like to see firsthand the positive impact the program is having on young people come along to a graduation, the details are all here.
