Entering the adult world can be a daunting experience at the best of times, but Central Coast Council is hoping to ease the transition for the region’s youth with an innovative expo at Erina next month.

The inaugural Skills 4 Life expo aimed at 15 to 24-year-olds will be full of workshops, presentations, demonstrations and activities with an emphasis on teaching life skills that can’t be taught at school.

Some of the topics explored include how to manage your money, what is superannuation, maintaining your car, basic healthy cooking skills, job hunting and how to prepare, what to do in a medical emergency, moving out of home, being healthy and navigating technology.

Director of Connected Communities Julie Vaughan said the expo is an example of Council’s commitment to young people.

“This project is about the empowerment of young people across the Central Coast and better equipping them for their life beyond school,” Ms Vaughan said.

“Our aim for the program is to assist adolescent transitions by building skills that are essential components of healthy development and skills that define a resilient young person.

“The research suggests that having basic life skills can improve the mental state of young people and help them become socially adjusted and happy adults.” 

Mayor Lisa Matthews said Council is committed to creating a community where young people feel valued, safe and supported to stay on the Central Coast to live, work, study and play.

“This expo is a fantastic opportunity to learn skills that aren’t part of the school curriculum but are essential for navigating through the adult world,” Mayor Matthews said.

“I would encourage young people interested in learning skills for life to attend this important expo.”

The Skills 4 Life event is presented by the Youth Action Team (Y4Y), with support from Council’s Youth Services team.

2019 Skills 4 Life:

When: Wednesday 20 November
Time: 9.30am - 2.30pm
Where: The Erina Centre and the Hub Erina Youth Entertainment Venue, North South Rd, Erina Fair.

For more information visit centralcoast.nsw.gov.au/skills4life

When: Wednesday 20 November
Time: 9.30am - 2.30pm
Where: The Erina Centre and the Hub Erina Youth Entertainment Venue, North South Rd, Erina Fair.