Plan-it Youth - Fact Sheet - The Smith Family
Creating better outcomes for disadvantaged Australians
In May 2006, about 30% of school leavers were not in full time education or work.* Lack of employment is still the single greatest predictor that an individual will be in the poorest 20% of Australia's population.**
Too many young people disengage from school, especially during the middle years of schooling. Disengagement and early school leaving quite often lead to lifelong socio economic disadvantage.
The Smith Family believes in providing mentoring opportunities to help all young people (especially those aged 12-16) stay engaged in education and learning.
What is Plan-it Youth?
Plan-it Youth is a school based mentoring initiative that supports young people as they begin to consider their transition from school to work, particularly those at risk of leaving school early. High school students are paired with a mentor, and over a 15 week period they receive guidance in exploring possible avenues for their post-school careers. This offers young people the opportunity to plan for their future careers and find a positive pathway into employment, as well as increasing their sense of responsibility and commitment by developing and maintaining a relationship with a caring adult outside the teacher/parent framework.
This program is currently being implemented in Perth in partnership with The Beacon Foundation.
How does Plan-it Youth work?
The program is offered to students who may be considering leaving school before completing their HSC, and mentors are sought from the community. Mentoring pairs meet during school/work hours once a week for 15 weeks and endeavour to formulate some education and career goals for the student as well as some processes by which they can move closer to achieving them. Workplace visits and excursions to TAFEs/universities are also often incorporated into the program.
Feedback
"Before Plan-it Youth I was confused about what my options were. The program helped me to choose what I wanted to do when I finish school."
"It was fun and worthwhile, and we covered just about everything I needed to know!"
Get involved
Community members are invited to apply for a mentoring role. Training is provided. Currently available only in Perth through The Smith Family or through NSW's Department of Education and Training Schools Equity and Access Program.
If you would like to find out more about mentoring in your area, please contact the National Volunteer Coordination Unit on 1300 397 730 or email your enquiry to volunteer@thesmithfamily.com.au
*Sources: MCEETYA, National Report on Schooling 2007. DSF, How Young People are Faring 2006
**Source: BCA (2007) Employing Our Potential.
