18 March 2024
I'm delighted to be here today and very much appreciate being invited to open the curriculum launch. It is a wonderful opportunity for me to meet you all and learn about the important work that you do for our young people.
I am also very proud and privileged to have been given Ministerial responsibility for Young People Services by our Minister, Connétable Vibert. I am already impressed with the breadth of services provided by dedicated teams across the Island and look forward to learning more, and meeting more of the team, over the coming months.
I would like to welcome you today, to celebrate the launch of the new Jersey Youth Service curriculum which will contribute to shaping the lives of our young people and extend their learning beyond formal education settings.
It is important to emphasize the value of the curriculum in supporting the growth and development of our young people. The curriculum is not just a set of guidelines; it serves as the blueprint for shaping the character, values, and skills of our young people. A well-designed curriculum provides diverse learning opportunities, equipping young people with the knowledge and tools necessary for personal and professional success. It should be dynamic, reflective of the ever-changing world, and inclusive of various perspectives to nurture critical thinking.
However, the significance of the curriculum is magnified when considered in the context of local needs. Each community has unique challenges, strengths, and cultural nuances. The JYS and CYPES must consider the local context to tailor educational programmes that address specific community needs. By doing so, we not only ensure relevance but also empower our youth to become active contributors to the development of their communities.
The continuum of young people's learning outside of formal education is another critical aspect. Education does not end when the school bell rings; it extends into our communities, homes, and the experiences young people encounter. Therefore, JYS and CYPES should actively support initiatives that promote lifelong learning, such as voice and community engagement.
This ensures that our young people are well-prepared for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead, fostering a culture of continuous growth.
Youth projects play a pivotal role in this process. By actively involving young people in projects that address local issues, we empower them to become change agents within their communities. These initiatives not only provide practical experiences but also instil a sense of civic responsibility and social awareness.
In conclusion, the Curriculum and the position of Youth Projects in the community are cornerstones for the holistic development of our young people. Let us recognize the importance of a well-designed curriculum, the need to address local contexts, and the significance of extending learning beyond formal education. By actively supporting youth projects, we pave the way for a generation that is not only educated but also empowered to shape a better future for themselves and their communities.
However, we recognise that although this is an amazing curriculum and development, that without the skilled, knowledgeable and enthusiastic youth workers we have here today, it won't come alive.
I am grateful for the significant amount of work that goes on behind the scenes and on the frontline by all of you. The work you are doing daily with our young people is extraordinary and I thank you all of you for your efforts. I think it is fair to say we have a Youth Service that would be the envy of many countries around the world and long may that continue.
You are all a credit to the Jersey Youth Service.
Thank you.
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