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 and resourceful adults.
By raising young people’s consciousness about transitioning from child to adult & having conversations with them about what really matters we can assist in guiding their journey into adulthood.
Our year-long program uses a Rite of Passage framework to deepen the students’ experience of this important life transition.
WHY WE DO IT
We aim to make a positive difference in a society where:
- Boys are under-fathered & the media displays role models making poor choices
- Girls are prematurely sexualised & popular media presents unobtainable role models
- “Bubble-wrapping” prevents the growth that comes through risk and challenge
- Young people average 30 hours a week in front of a screen at the expense of human connection
- Sociologists now suggest that adolescence spans from age 10 to 30
HOW WE DO IT
Andrew has used his two decades of teaching experience to specially develop a program which involves adolescents in reflection, discussion and developing strategies around transitioning into adulthood.
The Rite Journey was created by teachers in the school setting and as such is crafted to specifically meet the needs of schools. It is a year-long program in which teachers receive unique training, not only in how to deliver this comprehensive program to students in their school, but also in the particular middle schooling methodologies which engage students in the process.
THE RITE JOURNEY 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
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.
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In 2021 The Rite Journey is being taught in more than 130 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.
