Four detainees have become the first group of girls to graduate from the award-winning Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES) Youth in Emergency Services (YES) Program, run at Banksia Hill Detention Centre in collaboration with the Department of Justice.
Corrective Services staff, DFES personnel, family and friends gathered to celebrate the graduation of the young people.
“It’s great to see the girls getting to participate in programs like this that provide them with vital skills,” said Caatia, A/Coordinator of Youth Custodial Re-Entry Programs and Services.
“Not only do they learn about first aid and firefighting, but they also develop communication and teamwork skills which are just as important for their growth and rehabilitative journey.”
The YES Program is just one of the education and training opportunities available to young people in custody.
In addition to traditional school education – including numeracy and literacy – run by highly regarded teachers, detainees also have access music lessons, football and other sport activities and can even participate in the Army Cadets.
They can also earn work-ready qualifications including a Construction White Card or commercial barista training.
Dedicated staff, including Recreation and Vocational Support Officers support the young people access programs and training that will help them explore new pathways.
