Pupils from Oldham’s’ schools have responded to a challenge by Connexions to become Connexions Champions and help to create an effective link between their fellow students and Personal Advisors as they progress through school.
Around 60 pupils from Years 9,10 and 11 from various secondary schools have received accredited training in this ground breaking initiative which included working with Personal Advisors to find out more about their role, and developing an individual action plan on how to promote Connexions within their schools.
This year’s champions will work at developing and defining the Champion’s roles for the future, and will also involve a hands on role in developing the 2008 Your Choice exhibition. Steve Murphy, Director of Education Services at Positive Steps Oldham said ‘We are committed to the idea that young people should have say in the services they are offered and this is an ideal way to really involve them in the delivery and development of Connexions services’.
‘It also helps P.A’s to establish links with students in their schools, and gives students some additional information about who Connexions are and what we can help you with.’
A couple of comments from students highlighted the importance of the day, showing that the students gained a greater understand of the Connexions service
’I now know that they don’t just support you in your careers but that they help you with home, health & life skills.’
‘You don’t have to choose your choices on your own and all types of advice and help you can get off other people.’
The project not only demonstrates how Connexions Oldham uses young people at the centre of everything they do, but also allows young people to get more involved in the service, learn more about it and also spread the word amongst their peers.
