Development Tutor (Indoors)

Germaine Bowen-Smith | Development Tutor, Fairbridge West Midlands

‘DTs’ are the Fairbridge frontline, they design, develop and deliver courses to young people as outlined in personal development plans.

Fairbridge runs a huge variety of great courses ranging from rock climging and caving to music production, IT workshops and digital film making. No day is ever the same for our DTs.

What is your name and what do you do?

My name is Germaine Bowen-Smith and I’m a Development Tutor. I work in the West Midlands team in Birmingham and I have worked for fairbridge for three and a half years. (Wow)

What does a Development Tutor do?

As a development tutor my role is to support all young people in the centre to achieve their identified goals. I also support other staff and volunteers

What is the best thing about your job?

The best thing about my role is I get to support and be apart of someone’s development - so its also like my own development, as they achieve so I do I. Plus at times I get the chance to act like a kid and do fun stuff. Out doors, but mainly sports...

How was your Access?

My first Access was an exchange programme with a group from America and we went to Wales and London. We did a few days in Wales and did gorge walking, rock climbing and a high ropes course.

Best moment at Fairbridge?

My best moment at fairbridge has to be... there are so many to choose from but I reckon when we had to jump into a plunge pool… I was about to jump in when I saw how cold and deep it looked so I turned around and walked away. Why was that funny? Because the other young people jumped in because I told them I would if they went first.

So what’s it like working with young people?

Working with young people has to be one of the most rewarding jobs in the world. It takes time and patience but once the young person accepts your support you get to see their potential and can set goals.

What have you learned from young people?

I’ve learned that all young people are different no matter what situation, background and direction. That young people want support, help and advice but also want to be heard and understood.

What advice would you give to someone who is working for Fairbridge?

I would first say it's not you ordinary job and no two days are the same. It's packed with fun, enjoyment, and challenges. But it's rewarding and fun.