TEENAGERS in Warrington are queuing up to take part in a new programme designed to bring together young people from different backgrounds to “make a difference” in their community.
More than a third of the places available for the O2 Think Big National Citizen Service (NCS) programme have already been filled.
Participants will be able tolearn new skills, make new friends and improve their CVs
A pilot for a flagship Government initiative, the programme focuses on personal and social development and includes challenging activities, from away-from-home residential experiences to a self-designed social action project.
It is being delivered by Participation Through Sport in partnership with O2 Think Big and the National Youth Agency. It encourages young people to “start small” with an idea to benefit their local community, and then offers money, training and support to help them to “Think Big” to make the most of their idea.
To qualify, youngsters have to either live in Warrington or attend school in the town and be leaving Year 11 this year.
Jameel Hadi, development co-ordinator at Participation Through Sport, said: “It’s great to see youngsters signing up to what will be an amazing experience this summer. Not only will they get the chance to take on exciting new challenges, but they’ll also get to learn new skills that will equip them for the future.”
For four weeks between June and August, participants will get to take part in a range of activities. They will attend a massive residential experience at an outdoor education centre in South Yorkshire, where they’ll be put through their paces by qualified instructors. They will also take part in a social action festival, and will hear from inspirational young people who have already changed their communities for the better through O2 Think Big.
On their return home, participants will be making a real impact in the local community by organising their very own social action project, inspired by other young people who started small and who are now “Thinking Big”.
The youngsters will also get the chance to meet prospective employers and local colleges, and find out about training and volunteering opportunities.
For the whole experience, including the residential accommodation, food, transport and certificate for programme completion, the organisers ask for a £35 voluntary contribution with bursaries available on request.
For more information, contact Participation Through Sport on 01925 595007 or email [email protected]
Pictured: Youngsters taking on a challenge.
