As the school-based officer at Lochside Academy in Aberdeen I am immersed in youth work not only within the school complex but in the wider community.
I work alongside the Community Policing Team at Nigg and I am a member of various working groups in partnership with agencies and organisations who all share the common goal of providing opportunities for youths to thrive and grow into responsible adults.
Collectively we find ways to divert those involved in criminality or on the cusp of going down this path.
Improve community for youngsters
Along with Aberdeen City Council I recently developed a survey for young people to complete seeking their views in relation to what activities and open spaces they would like available within their communities.
I will then feed this data into the local working groups who are setting up new activities, particularly in the Kincorth area.
As a former Royal Marine, I am keen to encourage the children I work with to consider careers within the forces and emergency services.
I enjoy sharing my experiences and encourage the young people to get a better insight of the opportunities available to them and to learn how teamwork and leadership are essential and valuable life skills.
I am currently organising an event to showcase the services and forces to youths throughout Aberdeen city with my colleagues based at Northfield Academy and St Machar Academy.
Putting best foot forward
Working with the Aberdeen Football Community Trust, I assist by identifying pupils who would benefit from the work they do.
Sport is a great way to provide discipline and a much needed escape for youths at times of crisis or difficulty. I have seen first-hand how these type of initiatives have a big impact on the wellbeing of the youths involved and can provide a much needed positive focus and direction.
Football is enjoyed by the vast majority at Lochside Academy. Recently I played in the staff versus pupils match. Of course the staff won convincingly!
‘Not all fun and games’
Of course it’s not all fun and games and often my role involves tackling and educating pupils about serious issues.
With the current Hate Crime campaign I have been delivering lessons at Lochside Academy to make pupils realise the severe impact this type of crime can have and the consequences it can have on the victim, their family and friends.
I believe that giving young people an understanding at an early age will help them make better and more thoughtful decisions in later life. I find pupils really engage in these kinds of lessons and it pulls the whole class together.
Works across primary schools too
As part of my duties I also attend and provide inputs to primary 6 and 7 classes at the primary schools within Cove, Kincorth and Torry.
I feel it is beneficial for the children to meet me in preparation of their transition to the ‘big’ school and I hope provides reassurance that they know they have someone they can approach and trust for advice or guidance.
