Paving new paths: Yanchep Institute’s role in re-engaging disengaged youth
When young people are disengaged from school and their community, they are more likely to engage in antisocial behaviour. Expanding opportunities in education and training are vital for engaging disengaged youth and reducing antisocial behaviour in Yanchep.
Why do young people become disengaged?
Disengaged youth are adolescents who have disengaged from school and work while also experiencing detachment from their families and communities. This disengagement can be attributed to various factors, including poverty, limited educational and job opportunities, and exposure to violence and trauma. These circumstances can leave them feeling despondent and powerless, often pushing young people towards criminal activities.
How does expanding education and training opportunities re-engaged disconnected youth?
Addressing the disengagement issue among young people in Yanchep goes beyond law enforcement. To re-engage youth positively, educational and training programs must align with their interests and aspirations. For example, creating opportunities for practical skill development, leadership and mentorship can instil a sense of purpose in young individuals. It’s vital to communicate the benefits of these opportunities to gain their attention and commitment.
Re-engaging youth requires not only the involvement of education and training providers, but also the involvement of the individual’s family and community. Along with expanded opportunities for training, issues of poverty must be addressed and a safe, supportive environment must be created.
Yanchep Institute’s commitment
At Yanchep Institute, we are committed to expanding educational and training opportunities for disengaged youth and those at risk of disengagement. Our efforts include programs like the Certificate II in Construction Pathways course, which we offered to students at Yanchep Secondary College in 2021 and 2022, with two cohorts of students participating.
Currently, we are seeking qualified Construction Trainers with their Certificate IV in Training and Assessment (TAE), to enable us to continue offering this valuable qualification.
Certificate II in Construction Pathways – The Students
The course is primarily delivered to disengaged and disadvantaged youth. Yanchep Institutes prides itself in providing a considerate and supportive relationship with our students. It is vital that all our learners feel safe, respected and supported during their training. Our trainer must have an empathetic nature and be able to form connections with Yanchep Institute’s learners.
Jayden’s Story:
When Jayden* first started his Certificate II in Construction Pathways course at Yanchep Institute, he seemed quiet and reserved. For the first few months, he seemed disinterested and almost sullen; no matter what the instructor did to try and engage him, she couldn’t bring a smile to his face.
Then, one day, we began a new project. The wind kept blowing sand into the workspace, and so we decided to lay some pavers. We needed to begin by levelling the sand. The students were a bit unsure about how to get started, but then Jayden – seemingly out of nowhere – stepped up. Jayden began levelling the area like a pro – it was clear he knew what he was doing. The other students began watching him, asking questions, and Jayden didn’t shy away. He showed the students how to get the pavers level, how to space them, and how to lay them. When the instructor asked him how he knew all this, he simply said, “I work with my Dad sometimes.”
That day, something changed. Jayden started talking a bit more, it was as though a light had turned on behind his eyes. He began laughing, engaging with the instructor and his classmates. By the time graduation rolled around, the change was clear – this young student, once so sullen, was now right in there with the rest of his peers, smiling, sharing a joke and full of confidence. He passed with flying colours. We’re not sure exactly where Jayden ended up after graduation, but with the skills and the newfound confidence he had, it’s a good bet he’s out there building something great.
Building futures: Yanchep Institute hope to relaunch CPC20220 Certificate II in Construction Pathways in 2024
Education and training represent more than just career pathways; they offer individuals confidence, empowerment, and community involvement. At Yanchep Institute, we aim to broaden educational and vocational training opportunities, empowering young people to redirect their focus towards a constructive and fulfilling future. Vocational training equips them with practical, job-ready skills, making it a more engaging and relevant option for many. In Yanchep, expanding these opportunities means opening doors to careers vital for our community’s growth and sustainability.
Looking to the future: engaged youth and a bright future for Yanchep
As we expand education and training in Yanchep, we invest not only in individual futures but also in building a community centered on growth, engagement, and support. Our vision is to create a future where every young person in Yanchep has the chance to thrive and make a positive contribution to our community.
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