In Association with National Citizen Service
So summer term has just started and it’s an important one. Many teens are busy revising for their exams. Danny is in Year 10 and will be sitting his first GCSE exams next month while older kids in Year 11 will be completing theirs. It’s the perfect time to make plans for the summer holidays so the teens have something to look forward to, keeping them motivated during this intense time. Now to be fair, Danny is looking forward to having lay-ins and more time dedicated to playing games on his console but this isn’t the most productive of ways to spend all his free time during the school holidays (sorry Danny) so I’m looking for more positive ways to keep him busy while having fun too. If you’re in the same predicament, in England there is a government backed National Citizen Service (NCS) scheme that ticks all the boxes.
What is the National Citizen Service (NCS)?
NCS is a government backed programme established in 2011 to help build a more cohesive, mobile and engaged society. By bringing together young people from different backgrounds for a unique shared experience, NCS helps them to become better individuals, and in turn better citizens.
NCS is open to 16 and 17 year-olds across England and Northern Ireland. The two to four week programme, which takes place in school holidays, includes outdoor team-building exercises, a residential for participants to learn ‘life skills’, a community-based social action project and an end of programme celebration event.
At a time of huge political uncertainty, where division is more evident than togetherness, NCS is a powerful tool to ensure the next generation see more in their similarities than differences.
It sounds great, doesn’t it? NCS is amazing value for money too. The whole experience including food, accommodation and travel costs just £50 and bursaries are available on a case by case basis. Support is also provided for young people with additional needs which is reassuring.
NCS- How Does It Work?
The NCS Experience is made up of four phases:
Phase 1 – Adventure
A five-day, four-night residential based away from home with fun activities such as canoeing, rock climbing and abseiling, depending where in the country you are based, plus the chance to meet new people and enjoy some adventure, fun and freedom!
Phase 2 – Discovery
A further 5 days and four nights in a university style environment where your teen will develop life skills like confidence, leadership and communication to boost their CV or UCAS personal statement.
Phase 3 – Action
Working in teams, your teens put their new skills into practice by delivering a community project of their choice. Plan, fundraise, make a difference!
Phase 4 – Celebration
Celebrate their achievements with an end of programme celebration event, complete with certificate signed by the Prime Minister.
The good news is that it’s not too late to book – there are still places available for this summer. If you already have commitments during the holidays, don’t worry NCS will try their best to get each teen a spot on a programme at a time that suits them.
Who Can Take Part?
NCS is open to Year 11 pupils in England and Northern Ireland who will be 16 or 17 on 31st August.
There are still places available for Year 11s to take part in this once in a lifetime opportunity this summer. To sign up now, go to the NCS website.
Have you heard of NCS before? Will your teen be taking part this year? I know Danny would love it!
