Organisation

Youth Search & Rescue

Purpose

YSAR is a youth development organisation dedicated to fostering the next generation of community volunteers within the Search and Rescue (SAR) and Emergency Management (EM) sectors.

Description

YSAR deliver a three-year training programme to secondary school aged students through a blended learning programme of Wednesday evening classroom sessions throughout the first three school terms, reinforced by six practical weekend exercises throughout the year, culminating in a five-day end of year exercise.

Volunteers deliver sessions:

• in the classroom

• on site with sector partners

• in the outdoors

YSAR's Dunedin branch is looking for volunteer instructors to help with the delivery of the 2025 programme (and beyond!). They're open to hearing from people with skills and experience in one or more of the following areas:

• education

• leadership

• outdoor education

• emergency response experience (such as FENZ, Police, Emergency Management, St. Johns, Emergency Radio, Surf Lifesaving, Coastguard)

There is flexibility within the programme to suit your skills and availability –

• teach some ad hoc sessions in your particular area of expertise OR

• become a regular instructor for the duration of the programme

What YSAR provide:

• Initial training and induction (can be completed as per your availability)

• Opportunity to observe end of year exercise in Dec 2024

• Training resources and lesson plans available through their Learning Management System, Canvas.

• Opportunities for professional development delivered by sector partners such as Land Search and Rescue and Coastguard

• Support of Lead Instructor in Dunedin branch

Whether you are able to commit to a few sessions or a weekly commitment, your contribution will help shape the future of search and rescue and emergency management through working alongside and influencing incredible young people to make a lasting impact and create a safer, more resilient future for all.

Requirements

• Experience in outdoor education, emergency management or search and rescue.

• Ability to engage with and inspire young people.

• Familiarity with online environments like Microsoft Teams would be an advantage (or a willingness to learn)

• Full Drivers licence

• Clean Police Vet

Time commitment

For regular instructors:

• Wednesday nights - 1.5 hours during first 3 school terms

• 6 weekend training exercises throughout the year (approx one per month Mar - Sep) and end of year exercise in December

However, if you have a particular skill set that you are interested in teaching on a more casual basis - please get in touch!

Background Check

Police check - required as in the role you will be working with children

How to apply

Please contact Kelly Hoskin at kelly.hoskin@ysar.nz

Please copy (cc) volunteer@otago.ac.nz into your application email