How does the YMCA work to achieve this?
Greenhill plans its programmes with clear aims in mind. The programmes are devised as responses to identified needs within each visiting group. Working alongside the young people and their leaders, we seek to build up their personal assets[2] such as social skills, self-confidence, personal goals and positive values.
The main method of achieving this is through Instructor, young person relationships. Young people like most of us learn more through relationships than any other method, therefore the YMCA focuses on building constructive relationships with volunteers, staff and young people.
Our activities seek to bring challenge and increased self-knowledge through experiential learning. The interactive voluntary nature of our programmes encourages young people to participate, take leadership in a manner that supports our vision. Participants and staff are encouraged to review after activities to ensure effectiveness.
What is the guiding philosophy that underpins Greenhill’s programmes?
Mia Kellmer-Pringle defines the developmental needs of young people as;
- The need for love and security
- The need for praise and recognition
- The need for new experiences
- The need for responsibility
We design our activities and interactions to support development around these defined needs with strong support for healthy interaction and reflective learning.
To meet these needs our aim is to create a learning process that exploits the opportunity for creative development through four areas;
- Relationship building
- Conversation & Dialogue
- Participation
- Experiential learning
The prerequisites for any learning being created through Greenhill are contained in developing a culture within the Centre which establishes five pillars before activities start
- A Safe Space
- Invitational leadership
- Supportive feedback
- Effective communication modelled
- Context awareness
The primary purpose of Greenhill is not the creation of excellence in outdoor activities e.g. climbing or canoeing but in using these as tools for greater personal development, self-confidence and group trust. The communication skills of the staff member, their ability to actively show care and their demonstration of belief in the individual together in a shared learning experience is the most important aspect of the work.
To achieve these goals staff must develop the following skills:
- Observation
- Creation
- Communication
- Anticipation
- Reflection
- & intervention
The timely and balanced use of these skills is of vital importance in supporting the visiting groups to achieve their goals.