In the summer, we want our young people to have a break from more formal education, and enjoy their holidays while making happy memories. There is still a lot to learn and experience, but we try to make sure it can be fun and based on young people’s interests and talents.

Here St Christopher’s UK and Isle of Man our Learning Support leads Beverley Michaels and Tracey Walker share their reflections on their summer activities programme.

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Over the summer St Christopher’s young people and our UK Team tried out a raft of new experiences and activities. Young people enjoyed visits to the Sea Life Centre, the Imperial War Museum, Tate Modern and the National Portrait Gallery. They also took a tour around Chinatown and expanded their cooking skills learning to cook some new dishes such as Nigerian fried rice, chicken and rice, scones, and cookies. Alongside learning about sea life and pollution, the holocaust and contemporary African photography, young people shared their personal reflections and views and gained confidence exploring museums and galleries that were new to them.  We were proud of the young people who put themselves out there to try new things. Many took up the opportunity to formally recognise their learning, achieving AQA unit awards.

Recent studies have found that frequent visits to museums can reduce stress, combat isolation and feel rewarding. All worthwhile reasons to provide such trips to our young people, who due to circumstances outside of their control, may have missed out on such opportunities. And importantly all benefits for their well-being and growth, which we are committed to and passionate about supporting.

Across the way, young people and our Isle of Man education team took full advantage of the island’s outdoor opportunities, there was swimming, snorkelling and surfing in the sea. Enjoying the water is worthwhile on a number of levels. Not only does it provide the chance to create happy memories, but the simple act of being in water has a soothing and calming effect on the body and can be a healthy escape for young minds.

On land activities included mountain biking, roller blading, horse riding and even metal detecting. Tracey explained “We always encourage ‘trying something new’ and inspiring young people to find a passion. If we can’t help with this, we will find someone who can! We have previously brought in specialised tutors to support all kinds of interests with our favourite being a member of the ‘Magic Circle.‘”

John Dewey wrote that interest operates by a process of “catch” and “hold” – first the individual’s interest must be captured, and then it must be maintained. The approach required to catch a person’s interest is different from the one that’s necessary to hold a person’s interest: catching is all about seizing the attention and stimulating the imagination.

The team also provides 25 hours a week of education and engaging activities for young people in our secure care home, including functional, life and employability skills and provide the opportunity to work towards qualifications in maths and English. Online courses and AQA’s are also a focus for young people, as the ongoing recognition helps drive determination to do more, and to create and motivate their own brighter futures.

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At St Christopher’s we continue to support our young people in pursuing their passions and working toward the achievements that suit them, as well as creating happy memories.