The vision of BCM’s Youth Team is to serve, support and enrich the young people of Birmingham, regardless of their gender, religion or cultural background. We aim to provide engaging, interactive and thought-provoking experiences for young people. Our ethos is driven by our Christian faith but all of our provision is open and relevant to all.
Our work in schools
We offer a free service to all schools in Birmingham and the wider area for Years 7 to 13 and currently work in nearly 30 secondary schools. We offer:
Acts of Collective Worship (Assemblies)
‘…wholly or mainly of a Christian character but which are appropriate to the family backgrounds, ages and aptitudes of the pupils.’ Education Reform Act 1988
We can deliver assemblies on a regular basis, including the major Christian festivals of Harvest, Christmas and Easter. We can also offer other topics at the request of the school.
This short clip is from a Birmingham City Council film which exemplifies ‘good practice’ when delivering Acts of Collective Worship. Three of the presenters shown are BCM staff delivering assemblies in both primary and secondary schools.
Lessons (OCR, AQA & Edexcel Curriculum)
- RE, adhering to ‘Faith Makes a Difference’, Birmingham Agreed RE Syllabus
- Citizenship and PSHE stand-alone lessons
- Stimulating and practical off-timetable or themed days
- Q&A or ‘Grill a Christian’ sessions
Extra-Curricular Activities and Clubs
- Lunchtime and after-school clubs looking at Christian values from the Bible
- Charitable giving options: We collect tins and packets of food for our food bank all year round, but especially at Harvest, and toys for our Christmas project during November and December, all for families in need.
GSUS Live
This is an interactive high-tech learning experience designed to explore relevant issues from different perspectives through the stories of three teenagers. Visit www.gsuslive.co.uk to find out more.
Our work outside schools
Youth Camp
Open to Years 7 to 11, this is a week-long summer residential trip to an outdoor pursuits centre in Wales.
Fulfil Youth Event
This takes place each term in the city, bringing together young people for a fun evening of live entertainment, games and exploring faith.
Signposting
to other organisations, professionals and resources.
The Youth Team
John Platt completed a BA (Hons) in Theology before training as a primary school teacher (PGCE) and working at an independent school in Worcestershire. He was a Youth & Schools Worker with Youth For Christ in South Staffordshire for three years and joined BCM in 2009 as Youth Co-ordinator. John has 10 years’ experience of youth & schools work and is married.
Matthew Loader completed a BA (Hons) in Youth & Community Work with Applied Theology. This training includes a JNC in Youth & Community Work. He also has experience in training and presenting with a National Level 3 (NVQ equivalent) in Training Skills. He joined BCM in 2014. Matthew has 9 years’ experience of working with young people and young adults, schools & community work. He is married with a young son.
Laura Williams completed a BEd (Hons) KS2/3 Science before working as a science teacher in an inner city secondary school for 4 years. She then spent 2 years as a supply teacher in and around the Birmingham area before joining BCM in 2013. Laura has 30 years’ experience of working with children, youth and vulnerable adults. She is married and has three grown-up boys.
Get in touch
For more information or to make a booking, email:
johnplatt@birminghamcitymission.co.uk
mattloader@birminghamcitymission.co.uk
laurawilliams@birminghamcitymission.co.uk
or call 0121 766 6603
