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Seasons for Growth Companion Training

What it is:
Training for adults to become Companions—facilitators who support small groups through change, loss, and grief using structured activities and discussions.

Who it’s for:
Teachers, school staff, pastoral care workers, social workers, counsellors, youth workers, volunteers, and community leaders.

What you’ll learn:
• How to deliver Seasons for Growth safely and effectively
• Skills to support emotional wellbeing and resilience
• Creating safe spaces for reflection and growth

How to become a Companion:
1. Attend a training workshop (online or in-person)
2. Deliver your first program within 12 months
3. Gain accreditation through feedback and reflection

Cost:
Training fees vary by programme and include ongoing support. See details below.

Why train?
• Build capacity in your school or community
• Support those facing change
• Join a network of trained Companions across Wellington and Aotearoa

Children and Young People Companion Training

If you’re interested in becoming a Companion and bringing the program to your community, register for this year’s training using the relevant links below:

COST: $300+GST + $25 Subvention Fee (for new companions only) + participant resource pack (between $115 – $202+GST depending on age targeting).

Join the Stormbirds Programme Surge Training List

Are you passionate about supporting children and young people through difficult times? By joining our Stormbirds Surge Training List, you will receive “Just In Time” training, equipping you to step into schools and facilitate the programme when it’s needed most.

Completing our quick application form below ensures we can connect with you in the event of a natural disaster where trained companions are urgently required. Together, we can help young people navigate change, loss, and recovery and build emotional resilience.

Parent Companion Training 2025

If you’re interested in becoming a Companion and bringing the Parent Programme to your community, register your interests for training in 2026.

COST: $180+GST + participant resource pack ($119+GST)

LINK TO BE PROVIDED

Adult Companion Training 2025

If you’re interested in becoming a Companion and bringing the Adult Program to your community, register for this year’s training using the relevant link below.

Downloadable Registration Forms for Companion Training

If you prefer to complete documents on paper, please download the relevant PDF or Word document below and email it to seasons@cadw.nz

Application for Children and Young Persons’ Companion Training

Application for Adult Program Companion Training

Catholic Social Services Referral Form

To refer your client to Catholic Social Services

Catholic Social Services menu

Services

Our team

Carmel McKee

Director

c.mckee@wn.catholic.org.nz

Vivien Chiu

Administrator

V.Chiu@wn-catholicsocialservices.org.nz

Ian Gault

Senior Social Worker

i.gault@wn-catholicsocialservices.org.nz

Angela Chapman

Clergy Healthcare Coordinator

a.chapman@wn.catholic.org.nz

Deirdre Meskill

EJP and CSS Community Facilitator

d.meskill@wn.catholic.org.nz

Jess Ferroni

Seasons for Growth Trainer and Coordinator

seasons@wn.catholic.org.nz

Falefou Sio

Rimutaka and Arohata Prison Chaplain

Kate Sanders

Wellington Hospital Chaplain

04 385 5999

Marie Paurini

Wellington Hospital Chaplain ((based at Kenepuru Hospital))

04 385 5999

TBC

Refugee Resettlement Coordinator

refugees@wn-catholicsocialservices.org.nz

Kathryn van Woerkom

Hutt Hospital Chaplain

04 566 6999

Contact Catholic Social Services

Phone:

027 4055 469 (Cell or Txt) / 04-385-8642

Physical Address:

Compassion Centre Soup Kitchen, 192 Tory St, Wellington

Postal Address:

PO Box 1937, Wellington 6140