Studio microphone for recording podcasts on a white background.

BSix College
Podcasting Workshops

Podcasting is not just a medium for entertainment;
it's a powerful tool for education, empowerment, and community building.

Starting April 17th 

Podcasting workshops tailored for young people 16+ offer an exciting and educational journey into the world of digital storytelling. These workshops provide a creative platform for participants to explore their voices and share their unique perspectives. Through hands-on activities, young podcasters learn the basics of storytelling, scriptwriting, and audio editing in a fun and engaging environment.

The workshops cover fundamental podcasting skills, including microphone techniques, voice modulation, and sound editing. Participants also gain insights into the art of interviewing, allowing them to conduct conversations and share compelling narratives. Emphasis is placed on digital citizenship, promoting responsible and ethical podcasting practices.

In addition to technical skills, these workshops foster critical thinking as young podcasters explore diverse topics and learn to express their thoughts and opinions effectively. Collaborative activities encourage teamwork and communication, enhancing both creativity and interpersonal skills.

Week 1: Introduction to Podcasting

  • Overview of podcasting: history, impact, and popular genres
  • Discussion on the importance of storytelling in podcasts
  • Introduction to different podcast formats (interviews, storytelling, panel discussions)
  • Assignment: Choose a podcast format and brainstorm ideas for a podcast episode

Week 2: Recording Techniques and Equipment

  • Basics of audio recording equipment (microphones, recording software)
  • Hands-on practice with microphone techniques and voice modulation
  • Introduction to background noise reduction and audio quality enhancement
  • Assignment: Record a short practice segment using provided equipment

Week 3: Editing and Post-Production

  • Introduction to audio editing software
  • Hands-on practice with cutting, splicing, and enhancing audio
  • Tips for seamless transitions and adding music/effects
  • Assignment: Edit the recorded practice segment and enhance audio quality

Week 4: Branding and Promotion

  • Importance of branding and creating a podcast identity
  • Strategies for writing compelling descriptions and creating cover art
  • Introduction to podcast promotion techniques and social media marketing
  • Assignment: Create cover art and write a podcast description for the planned episode

Week 5: Legal and Ethical Considerations

  • Discussion on copyright issues, permissions, and fair use
  • Understanding privacy considerations and obtaining necessary permissions
  • Introduction to music licensing and avoiding copyright infringement
  • Assignment: Research and prepare a brief on legal and ethical considerations for podcasting

Week 6: Distribution and Launch

  • Introduction to podcast hosting platforms and RSS feeds
  • Step-by-step guide to uploading and distributing podcast episodes
  • Strategies for maximising reach through popular podcast directories
  • Finalisation of podcast episode and launch plan
  • Assignment: Upload and distribute the finalised podcast episode

Throughout the workshop series:

  • Collaborative activities and discussions on various podcasting topics
  • Encouragement of teamwork and communication skills through group projects
  • Continuous feedback and support from facilitators and peers
  • Q&A sessions to address any questions or challenges faced during the workshop

By the end of the six-week workshop series, participants should feel confident in their ability to plan, record, edit, and promote their own podcast episodes. They will have practical skills and a deeper understanding of podcasting, ready to embark on their journey as young podcasters.

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Racing to School
collaborating with Youth Unity #horseracing

Racing to School is pleased to be collaborating with Youth Unity to engage young people in hard-to-reach communities, offering our free interactive and healthy outdoor Schools’ Education Programme to those pupils and their schools that might otherwise face financial barriers to accessing outdoor learning opportunities. Using racing’s venues to provide this unique learning experience, our fully inclusive and accessible activity days support the learning of a diverse young people through access to the assets and opportunities of horseracing.

Through this collaboration we aspire to make a lasting impact on the lives of young people across Great Britain; sparking a lightbulb moment and what we hope will be a lifelong interest in the sport. 

Racing to School is an education charity that aims to inspire young minds through the provision of free, interactive, and healthy outdoor educational events for schools, staged at a variety of racing venues. They achieved another record year in 2023, delivering 410 events across the country and engaging a diverse group of over 16,200 young people.

The charity works with young people with special educational needs and over one third of their output is targeted to engage those from inner city, rural and deprived areas. The staff have a range of industry backgrounds including former jockeys who have retrained to develop their second careers, and their experience is invaluable as the charity introduces horseracing as an accessible sport to young people.

Jumping children in jeans near color wall

Gratitude to the Jack Petchey Foundation: Empowering Young Lives in Limes Farm, Epping

A special acknowledgment to the Jack Petchey Foundation for their invaluable support, which has significantly enriched the experiences of young people in our Limes Farm project.

Their generous funding has played a role in enhancing our capabilities, allowing us to acquire essential equipment that amplifies the impact of our sessions.

The Jack Petchey Foundation’s commitment to empowering youth aligns seamlessly with our mission. With their support, we’ve been able to create an environment where young individuals not only discover their potential but are also equipped with the resources they need to thrive. The acquisition of new equipment has not only bolstered our sessions but has also provided a tangible representation of the Foundation’s dedication to investing in the future of our community.

Together, we stride towards a future where every young person in Limes Farm can realise their full potential and become leaders of positive change.

The Jack Petchey Foundation was set up to inspire and motivate young people across London and Essex by providing exciting projects and programmes for them to get involved in. We also recognise the outstanding achievements of today’s young people by awarding them for their hard work and positive impact in their community.

Awards to date

Recognition Award which enabled us to purchase more equipment, also help to cover the costs of food and refreshments at each session.

Leader Award, which was given to Simeon Dennis in recognition of his passion for helping the young people every week.

Our Young Person Award which was given to Tilly Austin, who decided to use the money to have a Halloween party and also to purchase more games.

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Stories Like Ours
films that can reach young people

These films act as more than just stories; they are powerful tools that speak directly to the hearts of young individuals, providing a visual backdrop to the empowering words shared

We are thrilled to announce that we now have access to three compelling intervention short films, aptly titled “Stories Like Ours.” These stories where given to us by Tom Watt, and the full endorsement goes to The ACED Project CIC.

These films serve as a powerful tool in our mission to connect with and inspire the young minds we engage with, particularly during our detached youth work sessions.

In these sessions, we focus on reaching out to hard-to-reach young individuals within our communities. “Stories Like Ours” aims to reignite a sense of connection and understanding among these youth, providing a platform for them to see reflections of their own experiences and challenges.

Moreover, these remarkable short films have been curated to play a crucial role in our efforts to educate young people about making informed life choices. The snippets you find here are just a glimpse into the impactful narratives that await.

If you’re intrigued and wish to delve deeper into the stories, we invite you to reach out. Consider this an open invitation to connect, and perhaps we can arrange a workshop to explore these films in a more immersive and engaging setting.

Let’s embark on a journey of storytelling, empathy, and positive change together. 🌟

teamwork makes the dream work on blackboard

Insights from Our Team at Youth Unity

At Youth Unity, we take immense pride in the collaborative efforts of our dedicated team members. Recognising the importance of their perspectives and experiences, we recently conducted an in-house confidential survey to directly inquire about their feelings and sentiments towards working with us.

The responses we received have been overwhelmingly positive, reflecting a strong sense of camaraderie, shared commitment, and mutual respect within our team. It is heartening to see that our collective efforts are not only making a positive impact on the community but are also fostering a supportive and thriving work environment for our team members.

These survey results reinforce our belief in the strength of unity and collaboration, and we remain committed to nurturing and celebrating the valuable contributions of each team member at Youth Unity.

Meet the team here

How strongly do you agree or disagree with the following statements around career opportunities?

Overall, how satisfied are you with working for Youth Unity?

My organisation is dedicated to my professional development.

There are opportunities for me to apply my talent and expertise.

There are opportunities for professional growth.

My organisation offers job-related training.

Please provide your feedback on company leadership.

I have confidence in this company’s senior leadership.

The senior leadership team has communicated a vision for the future that motivates me.

I hear enough communication from the senior leadership team about what is happening within the organisation

How strongly do you agree or disagree with the following statements?

I am paid fairly for the work I do.

I feel respected

I feel my concerns, when raised are heard

I feel my pay is fair compared with people in similar roles in other organisations.

We offer enough training

Please provide your feedback on communication within the organisation.

There is open and honest two-way communication within the organisation

I feel I'm able to communicate freely, even when the news is not good.

I receive regular communication about what is happening in Youth Unity

Any other feedback you want to provide? good or bad!

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The British Racing School Induction Week Nov 2023

The British Racing School
Introduction to Racing Residential Course

The British Racing School

An Introduction to Racing, Residential Course

In collaboration with The British Racing School and the Gerald Leigh Charitable Trust, we are thrilled to share the remarkable impact of this most recent project. A week-long induction to the school provided a unique opportunity for a group of young individuals.

The response from our network was truly heartening, with over 85 applicants vying for a placement. Despite the overwhelming interest, only 6 participants could be accommodated due to limited availability. In navigating this challenge, we strategically selected young people by working closely BSix College.

This immersive experience, made possible through the generous support of the Gerald Leigh Charitable Trust, brought together individuals from diverse parts of London, representing varied socioeconomic backgrounds but bound by a shared passion for horses. We believe in the power of this transformative experience to significantly contribute to the long-term self-confidence and personal growth of these young individuals.

At the heart of this project is the spirit of collaboration and partnership, demonstrating that together, we can make a lasting impact on the lives of young people. As we continue to build on these meaningful partnerships, we are excited about the positive ripple effect that our collective efforts will have on the future of these aspiring individuals.

Forging Paths to Employment: Empowering Futures

Beyond the enriching induction week, this project is dedicated to opening pathways to meaningful employment for the participants. During this transformative week, individuals are introduced to various elements crucial for their personal and professional development. The journey doesn’t end here; it extends into courses ranging from 6 to 18 weeks, each offering not just education but tangible opportunities with guaranteed work placements.

The commitment is to provide more than just a glimpse into the possibilities; it’s about equipping these young individuals with the skills and experiences that pave the way for a successful and fulfilling career. The diverse courses on offer ensure that participants can choose a path that aligns with their interests and aspirations, setting them on a trajectory toward long-term success.

By combining education with hands-on work placements, we aim to bridge the gap between learning and practical application, preparing participants for the challenges and opportunities they’ll encounter in the professional world. This project is more than an introduction—it’s a comprehensive program designed to empower individuals with the tools they need to thrive in the workforce.

As we continue this journey together, we are excited about the impact our collective efforts will have on the lives of those we serve. Youth Unity works to create a future where every individual has the opportunity to not only dream but also to turn those dreams into tangible, sustainable careers.

The course attendees who are from inner city London

“Horse riding is very expensive; I’ve always loved horses but due to expenses have never been able to do lessons. I also love animals in general and knowing how to care for them in my opinion should be a standard for all humans”. Jehan aged 17

“I have always wanted to become a jockey” 

“I volunteered at a city farm for around 4 years in which I was an assistant to a riding instructor for horse riding lessons for children with disabilities and special needs. As well as this I partook in riding lessons of my own and would care for the horses such as feeding and mucking out.”

“I would never be able to get this opportunity to ride horses and I really do desire to ride a horse as they are one of my favourite animals”.

“I spent a lot of time with horses when I was in Ukraine, but now I lack that experience. I love spending time with horses by riding and taking care of them. It has been my passion since I was very little”.

“I like animals and would love to learn to ride a horse, but never had the chance”.

This immersive journey aims to not only broaden their horizons but to provide them with a comprehensive understanding of the equine world.

With a visit to the National Stud Farm, the young minds were treated to a detailed guided tour, unraveling the intricate tapestry of horse breeding and care. The experience wasn’t just a visit; it was a hands-on exploration of the behind-the-scenes efforts that contribute to the well-being and development of these magnificent creatures.

The expedition continued at the British Horse Racing Museum, where the group was immersed in a wealth of knowledge. A meticulous guide led them through not only the museum’s exhibits but also illuminated the intricacies of how horses are meticulously cared for in the stables. From the history of horse racing to the day-to-day life of these majestic animals, every facet was unveiled with precision and passion.

Youth Unity Horse Racing

The British Racing School: An introduction into the world of horse racing

The British Racing School
Introduction to Racing Residential Course

The British Racing School

An Introduction to Racing, Residential Course

The British Racing School is a Charitable Foundation and the provision of the Introduction to Racing Weeks are kindly supported by the Gerald Leigh Charitable Trust.

For more information on the British Racing School, please visit: www.brs.org.uk

In 2022, Shirley Jackson, Managing Director of Youth Unity, had the privilege of visiting the British School of Racing during the Racing Media Academy.

The visit left a lasting impression as Shirley was captivated by the exceptional facilities and the array of opportunities available for young people.

Building upon the continued partnership working with BRS, it was through this connection that Youth Unity was presented with an incredible opportunity.

BRS shared with us a proposition to invite young people aged 15 to 18 to participate in a life-changing five-day residential program focused on equine industry.

This transformative experience is made possible through the generous support and partnership of the Gerald Leigh Charitable Trust.

We received an overwhelming response from our partnership network, with over 30 applicants applying for a placement.. However, due to limited availability, only 10 participants could be accommodated.

The group comprised of individuals from diverse parts of London and varied social economic backgrounds. Several of the young people faced challenges related to SEN such as Autism, ADHD and anxiety.

We have high hopes that this immersive experience will contribute to their long-term self-confidence and personal growth.

The course attendees who are from all parts of London, Essex & Kent

“I would like the experience of working on a yard with a completely different atmosphere and hopefully learning something new from it” Sophie aged 17

Sophie, who began riding horses at the tender age of 4, actively participates in the sport of show jumping. Although she displays a keen interest in pursuing a foundation course related to riding, she has decided to prioritize her academic studies and complete her A’levels before fully committing to it.

“I would love to be a trainer, and i love to be around horses and learn more about them” 

Roxanne is a vibrant and promising young lady, but her journey has been accompanied by challenges, particularly with anxiety.

Nevertheless, I strongly believe that if given another opportunity and with a better understanding of her unique challenges, she would be able to make the most of the opportunities presented to her. With proper support and guidance, Roxanne has the potential to shine and overcome her obstacles.

“I would like to take part to gain a better understanding of the horse racing industry as well as learning how to care for horses. Having the chance to learn how to ride a horse would be incredible and working in a team is also a great opportunity to make new friends. I’ve had an interest in horses when I was younger but I wasn’t able to afford lessons”. 

Jessica’s journey began with a sense of nervousness as she had never ridden a horse before. However, as the days unfolded, her true personality started to shine through, and her remarkable smile lit up the surroundings when she was given the chance to ride for the first time. It was truly heartwarming to witness her confidence grow with each moment she spent with the horses.

Incredibly, we believe Jessica has already completed the ground work application, which is a testament to her dedication and passion for learning about horses. Her willingness to take on new challenges and her evident enthusiasm for the equestrian world make her a bright prospect for the future. We have no doubt that Jessica’s journey in horse riding will continue to flourish, and she will achieve great things in this wonderful pursuit.

“I have been involved with horses for around 5 years. I have been working and learning how to ride with competition horse’s at a working yard. Throughout this time I’ve learnt the basics and am really keen to further my knowledge as I would like to potentially have a career with horses.  My dad and I regularly go horse racing and really enjoy being around the parade ring and I would really like to be involved a lot more!  My great grandad also used to train horses in Newmarket so this experience would be extra special.”  

Despite being one of the younger participants in the group, Lois seamlessly integrated herself and formed strong bonds with her peers. Her deep love and passion for horse riding were evident in the way she wholeheartedly embraced and excelled at all the tasks and responsibilities assigned to her during the program. Lois’s dedication and enthusiasm were truly remarkable, and it was clear to everyone around her that she genuinely enjoyed every aspect of the experience. Her passion and skills in horse riding are undoubtedly a promising foundation for her future endeavors in the equestrian world.

“It’s been my dream since 7 years old to ride and care for a horse.” 

Safkat is a reserved yet remarkably passionate young lady who wholeheartedly embraces challenges and faces them head-on. Not only does she adapt well to her surroundings, but she also forms strong bonds with her peers. While Safkat nurtures the dream of studying law, I sincerely hope she considers giving the horse racing industry a chance as well, as her passion and dedication could lead to great success in that field too. Whatever path she chooses, I have no doubt that Safkat will excel and make a positive impact.

“I would like the opportunity to experience a different side of the horse industry in a professional capacity that I’ve never had the chance to encounter before.  I would also welcome the chance to meet and work with other like minded people who love horses.  It would be a great opportunity for me to practice and improve my stable management skills with the hope to also do some riding.  It would be a fantastic opportunity to help build my self esteem and work on building my confidence”

Robyn’s calm and composed demeanour made her an absolute delight to work with, and she effortlessly got along with everyone in the group, earning her popularity among her peers. Her genuine affection for animals was evident in the way she interacted with the horses, displaying a natural understanding and care for these majestic creatures. Even during the early mornings, she never once complained, showcasing her dedication and passion for the experience.

Moreover, Robyn’s kindness extended beyond her love for animals, as she proved to be a great source of support for one of the girls in the group who faced challenges with anxiety. Her empathetic nature and willingness to be there for others made a significant difference in creating a positive and inclusive atmosphere for everyone.

“I have SEN needs and this would help with my wellbeing and getting out of my house, I really love animals”. 

Chahera proved to be an exceptional young lady who wholeheartedly immersed herself in every aspect of the experience. As an organisation we work to be inclusive and engage young people with SEND, Chahera demonstrated how it can be successful through her active participation. Despite facing some challenges along the way, Chahera tackled them with confidence and determination, ultimately enjoying the entire week. Her resilience and positive attitude are truly commendable, and she undoubtedly left a lasting impression on everyone around her.  We have signposted her to the organisation Autism in Horse Racing and truly hope she pursues this further.

“I love animals and I struggle with my wellbeing, I have always wanted to learn to horse ride as I believe it would be therapeutic for myself”

Upon setting foot inside the British Racing School, Queen’s excitement was palpable, and her enthusiasm was truly remarkable. Despite never having been on a horse before, it was a long-held dream of hers, and she approached it with a natural ability to confidently connect with the animals. Witnessing her passion and potential, we sincerely hope that Queen decides to continue her journey by pursuing the groundwork course. With her innate talent and dedication, she has the potential to thrive and make significant strides in the equestrian world.

 

Even though Ruby wasn’t initially part of our group, she quickly integrated herself and became an integral member of the team. Her vibrant and lively nature brought a refreshing energy to the group, and her deep passion for horse racing was palpable. Ruby’s enthusiasm was infectious, and her genuine love for the sport was evident in every conversation and interaction she had.

We are delighted to hear that Ruby is all set to start the Foundation Course later this year. With her boundless enthusiasm and dedication, we have no doubt that she will excel in her pursuits and make the most of the opportunities ahead. We eagerly await to hear about her progress and have no doubt that she will achieve great things in the horse racing industry. Ruby’s infectious spirit and passion for the sport will undoubtedly leave a positive impact on those around her.

Feedback Survey

A man in a futuristic hooded jacket stands on top of a skyscrape

Future Ready Mentoring Project

The Mayor of London’s Sport team, in collaboration with the Violence Reduction Unit, has launched a sport and mentoring intervention program to support young people who are at risk of exclusion or those affected by violence during their transition from primary to secondary education. This initiative is part of the Mayor’s London Recovery missions, which prioritises Building Strong Communities and New Deal for Young People initiatives.

Youth Unity will be providing an after-school sports and mentoring program the Thamesmead area of London for children in years 5 and 6 who are experiencing difficulties or have been excluded from school. The program aims to boost the children’s self-esteem, self-confidence, and engagement with education.

The program will continue when the child transfers to secondary school, with the same trusted adult and activity to help them adjust to their new environment. Community sport coaches will receive training and support from the Mayor’s office, including mentoring, mental health, trauma-informed training, and support for young people with diverse needs. The Skills Builder Partnership platform will play a fundamental role in the success of this program. It aims to develop essential skills in young people to support their educational and career aspirations and positively impact their lives. The program will reflect essential skill development through its practices and utilise the Skills Builder Partnership platform to demonstrate individual progression.

Our experience mentor will be delivering Basketball and sports sessions every Thursday as part of the delivery for this project

Thamesmead Wed and Thurs Square social media

Peabody
Thamesmead Detached Youth Work

Youth Unity will be offering Sports, Music and Support Services to Young People in Thamesmead Moorings area every Wednesday and Thursday evening from 3.30pm

Youth Unity, in partnership with Peabody, is excited to announce a new initiative to provide young people in Thamesmead Moorings with opportunities to engage in sports, music, and receive support services. The initiative aims to promote physical activity, creativity, and well-being among young people in the area.

The initiative will provide young people with the opportunity to engage in sports and music activities. Every Thursday, Youth Unity will bring a van to Thamesmead Moorings where young people can participate in football games or just hang out with the team. Additionally, we will at times bring our van that is equipped with music equipment for those who are passionate about music to learn how to make beats.

To promote well-being and provide additional resources, Youth Unity will also offer a signposting service for both parents and young people in the local area. The service will signpost to support services such as mental health services, housing advice, and employment opportunities.

To ensure the program’s success, Youth Unity has partnered with Peabody, a local community housing association. The partnership is working to provide the necessary resources and support to make the initiative well-supported and sustainable.

If you are a young person in Thamesmead Moorings, come and join us every Thursday to engage in sports, music, and receive support services. Parents and members of the community are also welcomed to come and learn more about the program and receive signposting services.

Moorings Social Club

The Cage at Wolverine Court

Young host streaming his live podcast using professional microphone at small broadcast studio

MEN TELL ALL – PODCAST

Podcasting can create and promote important discussions in a safe and comfortable environment. Podcasting can also be a valuable tool in the therapeutic process and has been proven to aid several confidence issues. 

Our aim for this project Men Tell All is to create an atmosphere for predominantly men of all ages and backgrounds to feel comfortable communicating their challenges, experiences, and emotions.  A platform to communicate their thoughts and experiences on a broad spectrum of topics relating to relationships, mental health, and personal growth in a safe environment. 

Podcasts with male presenters or guests that honestly express their struggles with mental health or emotional difficulties can help reduce stigma and encourage other guys to seek the support they need, as well as for the listeners who just might feel alone and need to talk. Podcasting can foster a sense of community and support.

Although podcasting may not be enough to eliminate all the challenges that prevent men from addressing their mental wellbeing, we can however offer a safe space to come together and a place to offer signposting to the right resources to seek guidance and help.  We will over the course of the project be inviting professionals people 

All the sessions will be led by Paul McKenzie who is a podcaster and public speaker with a wide range of expertise in helping people to communicate more effectively. 

Paul McKenzie has also made an award-winning short film addressing mental health, SICK the Movie

Our aim to coach other people to lead on the podcasting to ensure we can continue the journey long after the project end.

This project has been funded by MIND in West Essex

More information about the amazing men that have taken part

BSix College
Podcasting Workshops

Podcasting is not just a medium for entertainment; it’s a powerful tool for education, empowerment, and community building. Starting April 17th  Podcasting workshops tailored for young people 16+ offer...