YOTS provides remedial education and skills training to 15–21-year-old teenagers and young adults. The 48 youngsters currently enrolled are assisted in their general development and given hope.

This programme, although only a year old, has had a significant impact on the lives of many participants. With a ratio of 6:1 boys:girls, many have turned from criminal activities as they master basic reading, writing and maths and acquire an employable skill. While the programme is designed for older students, a few under 15 are enrolled and are encouraged to enrol in regular schools after mastering basic academics. Older students are prepared for qualifying entrance tests to HEART and other skill-training programmes.

Behavioural and emotional problems are common with a majority of students. Therefore, intervention into the lives of hopeless, disillusioned children and young adults are an integral component of our curriculum.

In addition to remedial reading and mathematics, life skills and spiritual enrichment programmes are offered. An evangelist converted to Christianity after serving prison sentences for serious crimes conducts weekly devotional services. As one familiar with activities many of these students are involved with, he is able to reach out to them and has been instrumental in helping a few of them to turn their lives around by leading them to the Lord.

Skills Taught:

The following skills training workshops are also included in the curriculum which is designed to help participants become productive members of society.

Leather-craft: Ten teenage boys have demonstrated a keen interest in learning this skill which is taught every Tuesday morning by Pastor Harry Walcott. They currently are producing leather wallets. Samples of these and other items, including passport holders, have been sent to the Sandals Group, which has requested these with a commitment to placing substantial orders. In addition to students in the YOTS programme, residents from the wider community will also be involved in the training and production of leather craft items to meet the anticipated orders.

Silk-screening is another eagerly sought after skill and students have been imprinting their Polo Shirts with the school’s name and logo. A volunteer, Terrence Gibson, conducts training classes every Wednesday morning. Items to be produced include T-shirts; leather craft; drapes and other household items.

Both leather-craft and silk-screened items are being produced to fill the anticipated demand for these items when tourists visit the area. A small craft store is being constructed outside the school to display and sell these items. Part proceeds from the sale of these items will be paid to participants in the programme and also used to ensure the sustainability of the programme.

Hairdressing is extremely popular among the girls and residents from the wider community. A volunteer, Yvonne Neita, conducts training twice weekly.

Dressmaking is another popular skill both with students and the wider community. A volunteer, Valerie Ellison, teaches this skill on Friday mornings and students have made uniform skirts as well as household items.

and Welding