SocioEducational Animators Academy: The competences of the future

Training Course

1 December 2024 – 21 April 2025 | Italy

The SEA training is a 2-level program: a 40-hour online course on key skills for YW, followed by an advanced offline 1 week training and stage in Italy.

The SEA training program is a comprehensive two-level initiative designed for youth workers (YW) involved in non-formal education and youth work, especially in environments with migrant youth. It equips participants with essential skills to foster social inclusion and support young migrants through innovative learning approaches. The program includes both theoretical and practical components, focusing on communication, conflict management, and group dynamics.

Stage 1: Online Training (40 hours) – Basic Level

This stage is open to 40 participants and covers foundational topics crucial for working with young migrants. It provides theoretical insights and practical tools for creating impactful events and activities. Participants will develop essential skills through 12 focused learning modules:

1. Role of the Socio-Educational Animator: Exploring the mission, ethics, and professional behavior of youth workers.

2. Effective Communication Skills: Developing key skills like active listening, empathy, and non-violent communication.

3. Building Cohesive Temporary Groups: Techniques for fostering group cohesion for various objectives.

4. Developmental Psychology: Adapting youth activities to different age groups and needs.

5. Group Management: Handling challenges, fostering reflection, and creating a positive atmosphere.

6. Conflict Management and Prevention: Understanding group dynamics and preventing conflicts.

7. Risk Management and First Aid Basics: Equipping youth workers with basic safety and risk management skills.

8. Types and Formats of Non-Formal Education (NFE): Exploring diverse methods of NFE.

9. Designing Creative Activities: Techniques for developing cultural and educational activities.

10. Gamification: Incorporating action-based and transformational games into learning.

11. Program Design: Structuring programs, integrating activities, and managing event schedules.

12. Marketing and Digital Product Creation: Promoting youth work projects through digital tools and media.

Participants will apply their knowledge by designing a migrant integration event and creating promotional materials (graphic, audio, or video), ensuring a comprehensive learning experience that combines theory and practice. At the end of the online phase, 12 participants will be selected for the advanced level based on their engagement and project quality.

Stage 2: Offline Training (Italy) – Advanced Level

The second phase of the SEA training is an in-person, advanced-level course that provides in-depth exploration of working with migrant youth. It builds on the online learning by offering hands-on experience and practical applications. The key topics covered include:

1. Challenges of Migration, Adaptation, and Integration: Addressing the complexities of youth migration.

2. Risks of Self-Segregation and Radicalization: Strategies to counter exclusion and radicalization among migrant communities.

3. Successful Integration Strategies: Best practices for supporting successful integration in host societies.

4. Emotional Intelligence and Pluri-Culturalism: Promoting emotional well-being and cultural sensitivity.

5. Youth Workers’ Role in Building Self-Esteem: Helping migrant youth build confidence and self-awareness.

6. Holistic Well-being and Active Citizenship: Encouraging engagement in community life and personal well-being.

7. Practical Application of NFE Techniques: Implementing non-formal education strategies in real-world contexts.

8. Design and Use of Educational Materials: Developing digital and physical learning materials.

9. Event Management: Utilizing technical tools (projectors, microphones, etc.) for youth events.

10. Digital Tools for Communication: Using platforms for streaming, video-making, and other digital tools.

11. Eco-friendly Practices: Incorporating sustainable practices into youth work projects.

This phase provides participants with practical experience, allowing them to test and refine their skills in real-life settings. It emphasizes the importance of designing educational content, managing youth events, and utilizing digital tools effectively. The offline training not only deepens participants’ understanding but also prepares them to facilitate successful integration processes for young migrants.

The SEA training program is ideal for youth workers, educators, and aspiring socio-educational animators seeking to enhance their skills in working with young migrants. Through this comprehensive program, participants will gain the knowledge and practical tools needed to design, implement, and manage impactful youth projects that support the integration of migrant communities.

More information at: SALTO