What an incredibly rewarding week it was! 18 enthusiastic educators, psychologists, counsellors and youth workers spent a week absorbing themselves into the world of YAM.
From the 2nd to the 6th of December 2019, 18 individuals from across New South Wales (NSW) and the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) undertook the Youth Aware of Mental Health training at the Black Dog Institute, Randwick (facilitated by 6 highly engaging Trainers with years of experience between them). The week was filled with hilarious moments of role playing as 15-year olds to gain a deeper insight into the world and mindset of our youth, followed by rich discussions about the real-life struggles they encounter. Each new Instructor offered their perspectives and experiences around the welfare of our youth and together, as a newly formed force to activate awareness of mental health, they united in their passion for positive change.
The week began with an overview of the pedagogical underpinning of the program. Towards the middle and end of the week the participants were provided with opportunities to put all their new theoretical knowledge into practice by presenting the first opening session slides and role plays. They gained quality feedback from the Trainers and fellow new Instructors.
All participants were successful in completing the course and are eager to begin their YAM journey as part of a wonderfully supportive and enthusiastic team.
Post by Taylor Davies, YAM Instructor (and Course Participant)