15 December 2015
Chaplain Dale trained to empower young people
Posted in Training
Meet Dale Lawrence, Gladstone Chaplain and current Youth Work student with Scripture Union Queensland (RTO 30548).
Dale loves being that person in a child’s life they can talk to and receive a little hope from.
“I had one student I hung out with him for one lesson down at the bike racks at school and he was able to talk about his home life, friends at school, and why he was quite upset. Two days later the deputy principal asked me if I could sit in on a police investigation with this student. So I was there to support him. As the interview was closing the police officer asked, “if you were in an unsafe situation, name five safe adults you could trust to go and talk to, and the first answer off the bat was Chappy.”
Dale is thankful that he has been equipped to be that safe adult and wants to share his experience.
“The Diploma of Youth Work (CHC50413) has been so practical. The theory models we learn and practice can be put to good use when working with young people in any context. The course content is current, well recognised across Australia, and the nature of the course is flexible so I can complete it while juggling other aspects of my life.
“Young people need encouragement and guidance in a variety of ways. Now that I have undertaken this course, I feel equipped to support in a professional yet caring way, keeping the young person as the primary client and empowering them to make decisions that will direct them toward their preferred future.
“The qualification has helped in my role as a school chaplain by providing a better understanding of communication and listening skills, making assessments, mental health issues and how to support young people best.
“Training is a great option if you’re wanting to take up youth work of any sort. Even though I’m studying externally, the online community has been very supportive and the intensive weeks are a great chance to build networks with like-minded people. The trainers are passionate, adaptable and understanding, and have a wealth of experience to draw from. I feel this is what makes Scripture Union Queensland stand out,” Dale says.
Chaplain Dale is using his training to be an ongoing mentor.
“There are a lot of young fellas who don’t really have a positive role model to look up to. It’s an awesome role where you’re not judging anyone for what has happened to them, you are able to speak life into their situation, letting them know that what’s happening does not define them, that they are valuable as a person. You know that can be enough to get a kid through,” Dale says.
Along with his training, Chaplain Dale is supported by his Local Chaplaincy Committee (who he has asked us to say is without a doubt the best in Queensland).
Dale has been undertaking his youth work training with Scripture Union Queensland – RTO 30548
Scripture Union Queensland passionately equips students with skills and experience to work with young people.
Apply now to start your qualification in Youth Work.
Certificate IV in Youth Work CHC40413
Diploma of Youth Work CHC50413
Visit training.suqld.org.au for more information.
