TEXT:

ROCK symbolises strength, maintaining your ground.
Water symbolises the skills of flexibility, using reason and open communication.

These thoughts are part of the Rock and Water programme developed in Holland in the mid-80s by Freerk Ykema, a physical education and remedial teacher and counselor. He now trains teachers in countries around the world to deliver his course to young people.

Samaritans Youth Services Central Coast is currently running a Rock and Water programme at the Tuggerah Lakes College campus at Berkeley Vale. The programme started with Year 7 boys in 2003. A full evaluation at the end of that year showed significant changes in attitudes and values.

Many issues are covered by Rock and Water, including walking away from a fight without "losing face", and whether girls should be judged solely on the basis of their looks.
Nici Quiring from Samaritans says that one of the important aspects of the programme is that it teaches alternatives to violence. Boys beginning their teenage years have burgeoning testosterone levels. Their bodies are bursting with energy, and some find it a struggle to contain this when necessary.
Research shows that while boys are more often than not the perpetrators of violence, they are also most likely to be the victims of violence.

Based on martial arts, Rock and Water encompasses the disciplines of self control, respect and physical self defence.
The programme also teaches the taking of responsibility for your own words and actions, and treating others with respect. It builds self esteem and shows students, with very tangible imagery, the power of Rock and Water.
At Berkeley Vale campus, a whole-school approach is used. When every boy in the school knows the principles and techniques of the programme, they will be better able to support each other. This will result in the reduction of bullying and school yard violence. Teachers support the programme in the classroom and the playground by using the language of Rock and Water.

A smaller Rock and Water programme is also being conducted at The Entrance campus.
The Samaritans provide a range of services for young people on the Central Coast; like a crisis accommodation service for young people who are homeless, an outreach team focussing on young people who are homeless or are at risk of becoming homeless; the JPET scheme, that provides job placement and training for vulnerable young people; "The Cottage" at Bateau Bay, running a range of activities; and an Early Intervention team which currently runs programmes in all Tuggerah Lakes Campuses, including groups for girls.
For more information call 4332 1141.
- Words and picture by
Anni Taylor