Phillip Clarke works with some members of the community, of whom many would shy away from. Ironically, he works in a location which the community flock to see. Phillip is a Youth Training Coordinator, training at-risk youth to restore heritage boats on Sydney Harbour – including projects like the restoration of a Viking Longboat.Phillip Clarke runs and coordinates a youth training program in conjunction with InnerSkill. It’s designed by Phillip, in order to give young people trade skills, confidence and the ability to apply for work in the trades industry with a successful program behind them.
Phillip initially got the idea for the program when he was young and looking for work in the Maritime Industry after spending some time in the building industry. However, he had trouble gaining experience, and no one would give him a go.
“If I was I that situation [not being able to get work], being quite experienced, there must be other young people in a worse situation.”
The program works is schools, but also has a focus on youth at risk or disadvantage. Typicallyt it may include those dropping out of school, unemployed, disabled youth or people in rehabilitation from drug and alcohol problems.
“There’s a lot of ignorance with the young people in the drug and alcohol rehabilitation program. They’re just normal kids – they could be your son or daughter. They’re from all socio-economic backgrounds.”
Phillip says he’d like to keep the kids interested, by working on unique projects. One such project is restoring a Viking long ship, which will, when it’s complete, be for community use – such as teaching sailing.
“The program is structured holistically, so we don’t give them notes, as they’re straight in the bin. We work on the project, teaching them OH and S, the use of power tools, and we progress as they build up their skills.”
“I’ve seen some TAFE-run courses, which can’t engage young people. But we’re practically based. So we’ll do 2 hours work, and then go sailing.”
Currently, the program awards participants with certificates showing they have the skills to enter the workforce and possess basic skills and knowledge in occupational health and safety, power tools, and hand tools. On completion many receive a certificate and a personal reference.
“Often these guys have no resumes, so we often work with them at TAFE Outreach to work on their resumes. So these guys can say, ‘Yeah, I’ve been in trouble, but I’ve been working for a community organisation, and here’s
my resume with the skills I’ve got’.” Phillip says it breaks the cycle for young people who cannot get work and then get in trouble with the law.
“Working on this project, [restoring the Viking ship,] which will be for the community when it’s completed, gives the young people I work with a sense of belonging, and a part of the community.”
Phillip’s teaching philosophy includes not taking, but giving back to young people. “It isn’t about getting free labour, but skilling the young people. It’s helping the disadvantaged, helping the community, and, investing in the future. It’s about giving back –and you’d be surprised with what you get.”
“This project is bigger than I am, bigger than one person. Youth training is a big issue.”
The challenges
You need to address issues like literacy and numeracy. You incorporate teamwork, and numeracy – like in measuring out timber, and teach basic communication. It just gives them the opportunity to learn things from a different perspective, from a hands-on basis.
The best part
I learn from the young people all the time. There is always something new. The greatest satisfaction is in giving them a chance, letting these guys have a go. And the program is on the waterfront. You can’t get a better work environment!
What’s in the program
The basic skills learnt by the students cover marine craft construction, carpentry, joinery, painting, engineering, and maritime related industries – including working with marine diesel engines, being a deckhand and safe boating.
The program runs in conjunction with several volunteer-run organisations, including InnerSkill, The Pyrmont Heritage Boating Club, and The Sydney heritage Fleet. As a volunteer-run organisation, they have no permanent workshop, tools, or paid staff. They are currently seeking funding to support the program.
For more information about this youth training scheme, Phillip Clarke can be contacted on 040148385, or through Dennis O'Sullivan at InnerSkill.
