Police help young offenders to gain skills

Young repeat offenders are reaching their potential through skill-based activity, education and mentoring with the Broome Police and Community Youth Centre Learning Facility.

Since the facility was opened on May 3 this year, a full term has passed and attendance rates at schools have quadrupled.

The youth are guided by PCYC police officer Constable John Allanson into programs that promote healthier lifestyle choices and positive attitudes.

More than surpassing the PCYC’s initial aim to create a positive alternative to mainstream education, the youth are encouraged to develop skills that will help them in their future vocations.

Attendance rates at schools have soared, from an average of 20 per cent in 2010 to 80 per cent this year.

Aiming at developing skills for vocations in trades, tourism, land and sea, culture and environment, teachers Andrew Smyth and Arnold Bin Bakar are helping to mentor the youths on how to be good, honest people.

“Andy Smyth is driven, passionate and the right man for the job and Arnold has great knowledge of the local community that he imparts,” Const. Allanson said. “It’s working. The results speak for themselves.

“We teach driver education, maths, bricklaying, drug and alcohol awareness and harm minimisation, leadership skills.

“A couple are going for their skipper’s licence. It makes more sense to encourage vocational pursuits so that these kids feel they have a future.”

Mr Smyth said he had come from Geraldton to be involved.

“The trick is to reward good behaviour, rather than reinforce negative behaviour,” he said.

“The crime rate in these kids is now non-existent. They were under strong peer group pressure and many had no motivation and no reward to go to school.

“Its hard work, but to see these young guys out of suspension, none having reoffended, but attending the activities, it’s worth it.”

Mr Smyth said more teachers were needed for the all-consuming job.

A demountable classroom big enough for 15 students was constructed on the PCYC grounds, with critical support from the WA Department of Education and Woodside.

The team thanked Juvenile Justice, Deb Stibbe, WA education department, Woodside, Burdekin Youth in Action, Alive and Kicking Goals, The Office of Crime Prevention, Broome Senior High School, St Mary’s College and the West Kimberley Football Academy for their fantastic support.