Pathfinders Youth Homelessness Support Service does more than provide accommodation – it helps young people build the skills and confidence they need to take control of their future. Through our education and life skills programs, we support young people in re-engaging with school, finding employment, and working towards independence.

This year, thanks to the dedication of our Coordinator, Karina Wight and our team, we have partnered with Armidale Community College to launch a new 19-week Life Skills Program. Karina worked closely with the College to develop the program, while our staff played a crucial role in supporting the young people, ensuring they got to class each week, stayed engaged, and navigated any challenges along the way.

The program provided hands-on experience in cooking, health, numeracy, literacy, computer studies, and vocational pathways. It also focused on resume writing, job applications, and interview preparation, helping participants feel more confident about stepping into the workforce or further education.

Thanks to the incredible support from Community College staff Brendon Collits, Sue Collins, and Jane Leake – every student successfully completed the program last week. Their hard work and dedication have made a real impact, with one young person returning to high school and several others now looking to continue studying at the College.

Given the program’s success, Armidale Community College will be running it again at the end of February 2025.

If you would like more information on this new program, please contact Karina at the Armidale Youth Refuge or the Armidale Community College directly.