YOUNGSTERS in Warrington have a chance to take their imaginations for a wild ride while learning valuable workplace skills at an upcoming programme taking place at Gulliver’s World.
The theme park has, once again, joined forces with the National Citizen Service (NCS) and Warrington Youth Club to create a challenge for 24 young people between 16 and 17 years which will see them design a new attraction, ride or show to develop the park.
Over the three hours, participants will learn about the park and consider cost, location, theme and promotion of the new attraction and present it back to the management team at Gulliver’s World in true Dragon’s Den style.
Phil McNicholl, National Citizen Service Delivery Manager, said: “This is a brilliant opportunity to get real experience of pitching and presenting ideas to business managers while working with your mates in a professional and safe environment.
“These young people have probably been to Gulliver’s World as kids but won’t know the intricacies or what it takes to run something like it. Those involved will come away with the opportunity to develop their employability skills, confidence and learn how the world works. In the week following this, they will spend time planning and designing their own social action volunteering project.”
Mel Burrows-Carr, resort manager of Gulliver’s World, said: “We’re thrilled to be supporting the local community through this National Citizen Service activity, which is focused on helping young people build their confidence and garner work experience.
“If we can give back and offer groups an insight into how we work, why we do what we do and help them learn valuable skills that will assist with their future, these sessions will be a fabulous success. We can’t wait to find out more about their ideas for Gulliver’s World and see what sparks their imagination!
“A number of previous participants in the scheme stood out and gained employment with us for the summer periods as they continued their studies.”
Gulliver’s World have been working with the NCS programme since 2017 and has already seen some truly innovative ideas pitched from participants, says Phil.
“We’ve had some brilliant ideas, with one design being an underground roller coaster. It was around the time of Disability Awareness Day so it was all about not being able to see where you were going, and helping people understand the vulnerability of what it might be like to be blind. Another was a ‘make your own food stall’ so that kids could make healthy food creations.”
The dates for the National Citizen Scheme at Gulliver’s World are 15th July, 29th July, 12th August, 19th August – with all sessions running from 9.30am to 1pm.
Phil adds: “Some of our young people and referrals come from mental health services and youth clubs, but anyone can take part in the age range, they just need to sign up through our website. We already have over 200 people taking part over the four dates.”
To find out more visit https://www.gulliversworldresort.co.uk or https://wearencs.com to sign up
