Youth Volunteer Programme Extended at Boom Studios
A new round of recruitment is open now! Apply below..
Some of our pilot programme volunteers get stuck in to metalsmithing training
This year, we were delighted to receive lottery funding from Arts Council of Northern Ireland and Ards & North Down Borough Council to design a Youth Volunteering programme in line with our Art for the Heart programme.
WHY VOLUNTEER?
Recruiting 16-18 year olds, this programme was created in line with feedback from the age group about how they would like to engage with Boom Studios, and how we could best serve their needs.
New volunteers cited their main challenges as accessing essential hours of experience to qualify for jobs, needing extra-curricular experience for further education applications, and how lack of confidence and anxiety could be a barrier to stepping into those new environments. With this initiative, we aim to address all of those challenges.
Not to mention, having fun and learning new creative skills in a friendly, welcoming group!
ABOUT THE PROGRAMME
“Art for the Heart” is our ACNI Lottery Funded creative programme for 12-15 year olds, running jewellery and art journaling sessions in term time, and a summer camp last month. The pilot volunteer programme has been designed in line with these sessions, with the older volunteers going into the classes to assist the younger group with their work, and also foster an atmosphere of friendship and confidence among the class.
Some of the volunteers are aged-out participants now returning to pass on their knowledge and skills, we are excited to introduce brand-new recruits to the studio and learn from their experiences too.
Training
All volunteers receive an in-house induction by Boom Studios, including a run-through of our policies and volunteer handbook. Each role also has a comprehensive description and there is a building tour and chance to ask any questions they may have. In addition, the class facilitators provide technical training to volunteers, introducing them to tools & techniques, safety issues etc. We aim for volunteers to feel welcome, comfortable and confident before they arrive to take up their duties.
We have met some wonderful young people through the programme so far, and look forward to meeting even more next term!