TOY - Trainers Online for Youth
This is a reference for Sue Dudill
AIM
The aim was to increase the capacity of organisations in both EU and non EU countries working in the field of migration employability using a combination of language learning and the exploration of this hot topic.
OBJECTIVES
we helped to increase the capacity and potential of organisations and individuals by dismantling and removing barriers to communication, thereby helping them to realise their developmental goals
we thoroughly explore the topic, interlaced with language learning, using the latest non-formal methods to be found at the finger tips of the multi-skilled training team, embracing the theme with great relevance
we provided the participants with the opportunity to access and utilise the valuable skills and expertise of a team who are crucially not only highly trained European trainers, but equally qualified to a highest level in teaching English as a foreign language/ESOL. The team comprised trainers both native and non-native speakers thus giving expertise from many angles to respond to the many needs of the participants
we gave clarity to the topic of immigration and employment in a European context using learner-centred methodology, thereby avoiding ambiguity and misconceptions based on cultural and language differences which the training team have the ability to recognise in every way
we consistently supported the participants enabling them to maximise the potential of the learning that has taken place in both the topic content and the language elements
we provided the opportunity for participants, from a wide range of languages and cultures, with a unique peer learning moment in time
we scaffolded a quality learning process which strengthened the confidence and resolve of the participants to work on a European level in their chosen topic, creating new and improved projects; a tangible measurable outcome for all stakeholders
we provided a safe space for the learning to take place and yet ensured that it also challenged the individual to be the best that they could be, leaving them with the 'can do' feeling at the end of the training course
we provided a programme that was rich in content, not only in terms of topic, but also the quality of the integrated language, one that was highly interactive incorporating all learning styles - audio, visual and kinesthetic and the 8 multiple intelligences (spatial, linguistic, logical mathematical, bodily-kinesthetic, musical, interpersonal, intrapersonal and naturalistic) wherever possible.
we created a relevant learning journey that had a logical thread running through it with a clear and transparent map for the participants to follow
we cultivated an atmosphere with the participants that was entirely professional and yet allowed us to be authentically who we are as people, as well as European trainers
we delivered a refreshing and energising training course with integrity and transparency
we empowered the participants to go out into their communities and make a real difference in their own lives and in the lives of others.
We trained youth workers from the UK, Bulgaria, Poland, Spain, Romania, Armenia, Italy, Macedonia, Serbia, Kosovo and Moldova. Additionally because of the migrant aspect of the training it meant that we also had people from Kenya, Somalia and other parts of the world.
During the week we had a cornucopia of different methods to inspire and motivate the participants coupled with a delivery style from out team which enabled them to reach out immediately to even the most reticent of participants and support them on their learning journey. The innovative and relevant energisers kicked off every session and they were always linked to the next activity. The team was complemented on this and also on the flow of the team and how well we worked together with no ‘joins’ visible. We prefer to call it ‘thinking on our feet!’ Russian Roulette, Open Space. our Migrant Mission task in the city where participants had the opportunity to speak to the community at large and New Moscow Express were some of the kinds of activities that took place.
Each of the 26 participants took home a 'toolkit' of ideas, inspiration and new methods to work with. The written evaluations are testimony to the success of the week. You can see the blog on our website here:
http://wildcherry.org.uk/lick-capacity-building-working-migration-employability-3-1-day-1-york-uk/
I was trainer, facilitator and host.