Representatives from the National Citizen Service will be visiting us tomorrow (Tuesday 4th October) and will set up a stall in the café area at lunchtime……we have been asked to pass on the following information to parents/carers:-
“I am delighted to let you know that this term your son/daughter will be given the opportunity to sign up to NCS, a government-funded programme for 15-17 year olds. Working through physical, personal and creative challenges, this once-in-a-lifetime experience empowers young people to build skills and confidence to get ahead in work and life, whilst engaging with their local area.
The Challenge, the country’s largest provider of NCS, is delivering only 480 places in Berkshire and Buckinghamshire in autumn 2016. It is a part-residential programme taking place over 11 days over the October half term, with breaks. The first section is residential at an outdoor activity centre, with all meals, kit and accommodation provided.
Teams develop their leadership and teamwork skills by working with some of the best outdoor instructors in the UK, enabling them to create friendships and build confidence. After a short break, young people return for part two and gain new skills in music, drama, media, sport, enterprise or photography with a professional practitioner. Finally, teams have the opportunity to design, pitch and deliver their own social action project. Once completed, participants graduate and receive a signed certificate signed by the Prime Minister.
Delivering the programme costs hundreds of pounds per head, but The Challenge only ask for a contribution of a maximum of £50. They also offer early applicants a discounted price of £35 if the payment is made online before Friday 7th October, and financial support is available when needed. The application fee covers all accommodation, food, transport, and specialist kit for the residential parts of the programme.
Representatives from NCS are speaking to year 12 the week commencing 26th September during which your son/daughter will have the opportunity to express their interest in the programme. For more information and to book a place visit www.ncsthechallenge.org , or contact Peter Greenlaw the local NCS Coordinator at peter.greenlaw@the-challenge.org or on 07794 484698.
We highly recommend this unique and valuable opportunity and hope you will encourage your child to take part.
– National Citizen Service