Youth get connected through local wellbeing program

Local teenage boys at risk of leaving school, or dealing with other issues that may impact their ability to learn, are the target of a new wellbeing program.

Get Connected is an eight-week in-school program, delivered to Year 10 students at seven high schools in Canterbury-Bankstown, funded under Council’s Community Grants program, and delivered by a variety of local youth groups, including Mission Australia, Youth Off the Streets, and Chester Hill and Coolaburoo Neighbourhood Centres.

One of the schools involved is Canterbury Boys High. Student Support Officer, Stephanie Goni, said the program has done wonders for participants and helps set them up for the future.

"By the end of the eight weeks, they would have built their employment skills by completing their First Aid and White card certificates, as well as become more aware of the services and resources available to them in the local community," she said.

"We’ve found students feel more confident in social situations; are better equipped when attending employment interviews; happier in their personal lives; are able to better control their emotions; have a greater understanding of the law and their rights; and have a greater understanding around sexual health and consent.

"Overall, it has been a really positive program for us, so much so that we have students asking if they can join the program."

Throughout the eight weeks a variety of workshops are held. Topics covered include: