Personal development
YourSelf & Heritage
The YourSelf & Heritage programme works with young people of all cultures and backgrounds to help them examine and understand their heritage, culture and personal identity. Living in such a culturally diverse capital city raises questions about how different cultures can live alongside each other and what community means. Through small interactive groups with young people aged 5-16 we aim to demonstrate how Self and Heritage can be maintained at the same time as contributing to community spirit.
Through our work with the young people we aim to positively affect the schools the young people attend, bringing new ideas on Self and Heritage to pupils, teachers, support staff and, in particular, parents and guardians. In doing so, we hope to contribute to the sustainability of culturally diverse schools.
Positive attitudes to Self and Heritage are developed through enabling the young people to explore attitudes, innermost feelings, thoughts and experiences in a non-judgemental environment. We use a variety of techniques and stimulus, including one-to-one interactions with peers and adults, self-reflection, and everyday objects such as mirrors and newspapers, all of which help to explore relevant issues. Music is also used to encourage self-expression and communication.
The young people and parents and guardians are consulted on the progress and direction of the programme, with the young people given the opportunity to direct the short-term aims of the programme and the long-term path. Each project is managed by one co-ordinator and delivered by two specialist trainers, experienced in working with disadvantaged, young and diverse client groups.