Posted on: Thursday 29 June 2023
More than 500 young people have taken part in a fun-filled week of activities, as part of National Youth Work Week.
The young people got to embark on a mountain biking trail around Pontypool Park, honed their culinary skills at Ashley House, in Cwmbran, and tried out chalk art at Cold Barn Farm Youth Club.
Year six pupils from at least 20 primary schools took part in the John Muir Transition programme, which supports young people to experience the outdoors and build new friendships before moving to high school.
While Torfaen Young Parents Group got creative making sensory glitter bottles and preparing pasta for their little ones.
Over 40 young people from Croesyceiliog School also undertook their bronze Duke of Edinburg Award, led by Torfaen Youth Service.
The award helps young people along the path to a productive and prosperous future through developing skills and confidence.
Youth Work Week aims to acknowledge and celebrate the profound impact youth work has on the lives of young people.
During the week, Torfaen Youth Service gave a presentation about best practice in youth work at the National Youth Work Week event held at the Wales Millennium Centre in Cardiff.
The event shone a light on youth work from all across Wales and was visited by the Chief Executive of the WLGA and senior government officials.
Thirteen year old Morgan, from Cwmbran, shared their experience, saying: "We got to make a stir fry and I loved it! We get to try new things, learn new things, and I get to hang out with my mates.”
“The youth workers are really supportive and kind. They really listen to us, and I always feel respected."
In collaboration with the National Academy for Education Leadership, Torfaen Youth Service also co-hosted a webinar to recognise leadership within youth work.
It targeted professionals from Education across Wales to share learning and views on leadership, with over 45 leaders from across Wales attending.
Torfaen Youth Service Manager, David Williams, said: "Celebrating Youth Work Week is a fantastic opportunity to showcase the excellent work that happens right across Wales.
“Our team of youth workers here in Torfaen work so hard alongside young people to build programmes and services in a consultative and inclusive way that is reflective of the young people's needs and their communities. It's an absolute joy to work with such a tremendous group of people."
To stay up to date with Torfaen Youth Service's initiatives and events this summer, follow their social media pages on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter @torfaenyouth.
Alternatively, check out Torfaen’s Summer Fun Fest on the Connect Torfaen website: connecttorfaen.org.uk