We facilitate a variety of programmes that have been proven to help young people develop new skills, build confidence, discover new pathways, and helped them to feel valued and accepted.
These youth development workshops and programmes where young people learn new skills, discover talents and make new friends include:
Barista
Barista Foundations This programme gives young people practical skills and knowledge and an opportunity to gain confidence in a real café environment
Music
Singing & Song Writing You can learn what is involved in composing music and writing lyrics
Vault
The VAULT is a rap writing workshop which will help to focus those thoughts and learn techniques to help develop a song
Radio
The Radio Factory will give young people the platform to express themselves, have a voice and share their message with friends, whanau their community
Film
This workshop gives youth an insight into the film and online streaming industries in a hands-on setting using the latest drone, gimbal and camera technology
PC Building
The PC Building programme will help young people to build their OWN PC that they get to take home.
We focus on the delivery of services, programmes and activities that build on the strengths and skills of young people, with youth voice and participation at the centre.
We believe that it is essential for young people to have opportunities and support with the development of competencies and skills.
Our work comes from a youth-focused and strength-based position, underpinned by the principles of Mana Taiohi (NZ Youth Development Strategy).
Therefore, problem solving, negotiation, decision making and self-management skills; and strengthening resilience and self-esteem are core to our programme delivery.
We pride ourselves on delivering high quality services and programmes, which are evidence based, and based on best practice.
Creative Youth Development
Research focusing on young people identifies the benefits of creative youth development programmes including the development of attitudes (e.g. self-discipline, self-efficacy) and behaviours (e.g. more frequent school attendance, reduced dropout rates) that improve school performance; development of life-skills (e.g. understanding the consequences of one’s behaviour, working in teams); and development of pro-social attitudes and behaviours among ‘at risk’ youth (e.g. building social bonds, improving self-image).
Studies have identified self-confidence as the main benefit leading to an increase in creative ability as well as improved social interactions. A sense of self-worth increases particularly for young people from disadvantaged communities, allowing them to discover hidden strengths and talents. Participation in the arts also provides for an increase in social skills, including those needed for teamwork; social awareness leading to a desire to include and respect others; and facilitates the creation of positive role models for young people. Participation in arts projects also gives young people the opportunity to socialise and meet new people and develop peer relationships.
The Rotorua Youth Centre uses creative youth development activity to grow young people in a number of ways;
- Interaction with peers and developing a sense of belonging.
- Ability to explore various roles and identities, promoting self-determination.
- Developing interpersonal skills, including communication, decision-making, assertiveness, and peer refusal skills, and have the ability to create healthy relationships.
- Developing significant positive relationships with mentors, positive role models, and other nurturing adults.
- Demonstrating the ability to set goals and develop a plan.
- Developing individual strengths.
- Encouraging the development of self-determination and self-advocacy skills.
- Practicing self-management and responsible decision-making that reflects healthy choices.