Education Authority Y Box Doc

REFLECTION, PLANNING AND EVALUATING Reflective practice, session recordings, and evaluation are essential tools for the ongoing development of practice. Reflective practice encourages us to critically think about our actions, decisions, and interactions with young people. By reflecting on what went well and what could be improved, practitioners gain deeper self-awareness, identify gaps in their knowledge or approach, and adapt their methods to better meet the needs of the young people they support. This process fosters continuous learning and professional growth, ensuring that practice remains relevant, ethical, and responsive to changing circumstances and diverse youth experiences. Session recordings and evaluations complement reflective practice by providing concrete evidence and feedback that inform improvement. Recordings allow us to revisit sessions objectively, noticing aspects of communication, group dynamics, and engagement that may not have been clear in the moment. Evaluations—whether through self-assessment, peer review, or feedback from young people—help measure the effectiveness of sessions and programs, highlighting successes and areas for development. Together, these practices create a cycle of learning, accountability, and growth. During the research phase, the Youth Workers were provided off line supervision. Regular critical reflection sessions took place. It is recommended that practitioners avail of this when possible. As part of the initial role out of the Y-Box framework training all participants will be offered support. This will include: Individual support from trainer – reflective practice/Coaching/Mentoring Small group support from trainer– reflective practice/sharing practice Community Peer Support – group led Please use the QR code to contact Y-BOX trainers who may be able to support you with this. The following section provides a number of templates that you may want to use or develop to meet your needs. A4 printable and amendable versions are available via the QR code.

EVALUATION SESSION REFLECTION TEMPLATE The session reflection is an opportunity to critically reflect on the session. This is about more than an account of what happened but how and why. It should be completed by the youth worker but discussed with an off line supervisor. The purpose to unpack the learning from the session and plan for the next session. This also contributes towards the evaluation of the project.

Date and session number : Focus of the session and core component being addressed

Did the session go as planned?

What worked/did not work? Why?

What were the group dynamics like and how did this contribute to engagement?

What did you observe of the young men?

How does this inform your thinking about these young men’s lives?

Based on this learning, what would be useful to include in the next session?

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