Teeangers from Northamptonshire sign up for National Citizen Service during summer holidays

NCS, which began on July 20th 2015, is a government-backed initiative that gives 16-17 year olds the opportunity to build vital skills likes teamwork, leadership and confidence while taking on new challenges, meeting new people and contributing to their local community.

Phil Everett, communications manager for NCS in Lincolnshire, Rutland, Leicestershire and Northamptonshire, known as NCS EM1, said: “We’re halfway through our summer programme and everyone is having an amazing time!

“The teens have just completed their adventure weeks and taste of student life, which focuses on developing vital skills and taking part in CV building workshops. The next two weeks will give them the opportunity to plan and implement a social action project that will benefit their hometowns.”

Kerris Cronin-Harrold, 16 from Northampton, who is currently taking part in NCS, said: “It’s been really fun so far. I’ve met so many new people and joined in activities like orienteering and rock climbing, but I’m looking forward to experiencing what university will be like and knowing that my experience on NCS will help me in the future.”

“I’ve had such an amazing time on NCS! My favourite part has definitely been that I could experience new things that I wouldn’t have otherwise! Plus, everyone has been so friendly and welcoming and I’ve made some great new friends!”

“Taking part in NCS has encouraged me to come out of my shell and really pushed me to take on challenges I never thought I could! I now feel much more confident in my skills and abilities heading into applying for university.”

The summer programme includes a week of team-building activities such as archery and rock climbing, an away-from-home residential featuring skill-building workshops and a social action project that offers participants a chance to give back to their local communities.

Kerris continued: “If I hadn’t taken part in NCS, I would’ve been sat at home, lazing about this summer. Instead, I feel like I’ve done something productive by helping other people. If I hadn’t joined the programme, I wouldn’t have made so many new friends or built up my confidence.”

“I’d recommend NCS to anyone thinking about joining! If I hadn’t signed up, I would’ve just been bored at home playing on my Xbox, but instead I’ve made loads of new friends and got to take part in amazing activities, all of which will really help me to prepare for my future.”

Phil added: “For anyone who was unable to join in this summer, don’t worry! We’ve started to take sign ups for our Autumn programme, which takes place during the October half term. All you need to do to register your interest is visit, www.ncsem1.org.uk.”

For more information or to sign up, please contact Phil Everett on 01522 574152 or [email protected] or visit www.facebook.com/NCSEM1 and www.ncsem1.org.uk.