Last week in Toowoomba, Horizon2 RTO Manager Dave Bradford and Senior Indigenous Trainer Pete Thornley participated in the graduation of the Next Gear Program at Civic Assist.

The Next Gear Program is designed to re-engage young people experiencing challenges with school participation. These challenges may include suspension or expulsion, involvement with the justice system, or unsafe and unstable living situations.

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young people received their Certificate I in Developing Independence, with a further two young people now in the final stages of the course.

Next Gear Program graduation in Toowoomba
Students, trainers and community members celebrating the Next Gear Graduation in Toowoomba.

A program built around connection and independence

Next Gear is a co-designed program aimed at activity-based engagement and the development of independence. The program supports young people to build confidence, resilience and a stronger sense of personal agency through meaningful challenges and positive connection.

The program results in a Certificate I in Developing Independence. The qualification was designed by the Brotherhood of St Laurence and is delivered under licence by Horizon2.

Through the program, young people developed:

  • Personal resilience and confidence
  • Independence and life skills
  • Teamwork and communication skills
  • Creative self-expression
  • Positive connections with pro-social adults
Horizon2 and Civic Assist Next Gear graduation celebration
The graduation recognised the effort, growth and achievements of the young people involved.

Learning through life skills, teamwork and music

Throughout the program, the young people learned practical life skills, developed team skills and explored creative ways to express themselves through music.

One young person created an original rap song, which was played during the graduation proceedings. It was a powerful example of confidence, creativity and personal growth.

The most common feedback from the young people was simple and memorable: “Can we do the course again?”

A special performance from Pete Thornley

As part of the graduation celebration, Pete Thornley, Senior Indigenous Trainer with Horizon2, performed the didgeridoo for those in attendance.

Pete Thornley, Senior Indigenous Trainer with Horizon2, performs the didgeridoo at the Next Gear Graduation in Toowoomba.

Supporting young people through meaningful education

Horizon2 is proud to support programs that create real opportunities for young people to reconnect with learning, build confidence and develop practical skills for the future.

Congratulations to the graduates and to everyone involved in supporting the success of the Next Gear Program in Toowoomba.

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