THE RITE JOURNEY
TRANSFORMING TODAY’S TEENS
What We Do
For over 20 years The Rite Journey has been providing unique educational programs in schools and organisations designed to support the development of self-aware, responsible, respectful, resilient, resourceful and reflective adults.
Our suite of programs aim to deepen student experience, through connection, collaboration, consciousness and conversation. We aim to support the growth of thriving citizens, equipped for their own unique journey, armed with the skills and dispositions needed to not just flourish in school, but in life.
WHY WE DO IT
Our mission as an organisation is to support the development of global citizens ready and prepared for the world that awaits them.
We aim to make a positive difference in society through nurturing and supporting children to understand their unique gifts and talents. Through understanding strengths and connecting to a curriculum embedded in lifelong skills and dispositions, we hope to support schools and families nurture the children in their care, and prepare them for the world of adulthood.
HOW WE DO IT
Andrew and the team have decades of teaching experience in schools across Australia and around the world. The wealth of experience the team brings has aided to develop programs which involve children and teens in reflection, discussion and developing strategies on their journey to adulthood.
Through our suite of programs, from the Flagship program “Rite Journey”, to “Heoric Habits”, “Anchored” and many more, teachers in school settings can utilise programs to craft meaningful curriculum connections to meet the needs of students in each unique school context.
OUR FLAGSHIP THE RITE JOURNEY - RITE OF PASSAGE IS A YEAR LONG PROGRAM DESIGNED TO:
- acknowledge & celebrate each student’s shift into adulthood
- offer conversations & experiences to guide this transition
- foster connections with positive adult role models
- educate & include parents/carers in the process
- connect students with their strengths & build self-awareness
- transform school culture by developing responsibility
FOUR THEMES THROUGHOUT THE YEAR
WHO AM I REALLY?
Students gain an understanding of themselves by exploring self-identity and the expectations placed on them by society. Topics include self- awareness, gender identity and body image.
HOW DO I GET ALONG WITH OTHERS?
This theme assists students in exploring their role in relationships. Conversations include emotional literacy, listening, non-violence, anger management and healthy sexuality.
IS THERE SOMETHING MORE?
Throughout this unit students reflect on some of the deeper aspects of life including stillness, mindfulness, values, sadness, happiness, mortality and wisdom.
WHAT DO I HAVE TO GIVE?
The final theme prompts students to consider their future, what they have to offer the world and calls them to responsibility. Topics include leadership, intentions, kindness and gratitude.
A CONTEMPORARY RITE OF PASSAGE
In 1909 anthropologist Arnold Van Gennep recognised that most cultures transitioned individuals from one social role to another by way of what he termed ‘rites of passage’. He recognised three distinct elements throughout different cultures: separation, transformation and reincorporation.
The Rite Journey acknowledges the lack of this process in western culture and reinvents this transition into adulthood using a Hero’s Journey. It expands the 3 elements into seven stages.
SEVEN STAGES OF THE RITE JOURNEY - RITE OF PASSAGE
1. The Calling
At a significant local landmark the students show gratitude for their childhood and are called on their journey to adulthood.
2. The Departure
Parents, carers and mentors join the students for an opportunity to learn, reflect and look forward.
3. The Following
The students are guided throughout the year by a number of supportive adults including teachers, parents/carers and mentors.
4. The Challenges
Resilience is built by giving students challenges and helping them acquire the skills, resources and mindset necessary to overcome them.
5. The Abyss
The biggest challenge of the year takes students out of their comfort zone to help them learn more about themselves.
6. The Return
Students reflect on what they have learned and experienced over the year and the gifts and skills they will carry into adulthood.
7. The Homecoming
Students are celebrated and honoured at a gratitude ceremony involving teachers, parents/carers and mentors.
In 2022 The Rite Journey is being taught in more than 140 schools on 4 continents to 11000 students.
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A CONTEMPORARY RITE OF PASSAGE
In 1909 anthropologist Arnold Van Gennep recognised that most cultures transitioned individuals from one social role to another by way of what he termed ‘rites of passage’. He recognised three distinct elements throughout different cultures: separation, transformation and reincorporation.
The Rite Journey acknowledges the lack of this process in western culture and reinvents this transition into adulthood using a Hero’s Journey. It expands the 3 elements into seven stages.
