The Academy has been named as a National Citizen Service (NCS) Champion School. NCS is a nationwide programme for 16 and 17 year olds which lets the teenagers live independently for two to four weeks with other young people. The experience, which takes place in school holidays, helps young people to develop new skills whilst learning more about their communities and how they can make a difference through social action projects.
Champion school status has been given to schools who have excelled in promoting the programme and recruiting young people to take part over the last academic year. Last year The Academy at Shotton Hall recruited over 50 students to the NCS programme and so far there are 36 students on board for 2017.
For young people, NCS provides a host of practical and emotional benefits. Nearly three quarters of those who have taken part in NCS feel more confident about getting a job, and nine in ten feel that it has helped them develop useful skills for the future. They also demonstrate high levels of confidence and resilience, and report lower levels of anxiety than their peers.
NCS is a unique programme focused around fun and discovery, plus 30 hours committed to a community project that benefits both young people and society. On this government backed programme, participants build skills for work and life, while taking on new challenges and adventures, making new friends, and contributing to their community.
Kerry Siddle, Year 7 learning manager, who headed up the NCS partnership at the Academy last year said: “The programme is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for our students that offers them the chance to build valuable life skills and make new friendships. We are really proud to take part in the NCS programme and very honoured to have been recognised for our ongoing enthusiasm and participation.”
Kimberley Cummings Recruitment Team Leader for NCS, said: “The Academy at Shotton hall is a fantastic school and very welcoming of our engagement to ensure that the students are given the best opportunities over their Summer holiday.
“Due to overwhelming interest, places are already limited for this summer’s NCS. I’d encourage students to sign up and change their summer.”
Education Secretary Justine Greening said: “It’s really fantastic to see that so many pupils have already benefitted from the wide range of programmes provided by National Citizen Service (NCS).
“I want to congratulate all the ‘champion schools’ and thank them for their hard work and commitment helping young people gain vital skills that will help them get on in life and fulfil their potential.”
The next NCS programme runs over the summer holidays, with 16 and 17 year olds eligible to take part. Government backing means places cost just £50 or less; young people in receipt of free school meals are eligible for a bursary.
The NCS summer experience includes a week of adventure at an outdoor centre in the Lake District, Yorkshire Dales or Scottish borders where teens will meet new people and enjoy adventure, fun and freedom. Teens will then spend another week developing life skills like confidence, leadership and communication while staying in a uni-style environment.
They’ll then work with their NCS team to deliver their own community project - making a lasting impact on the local area.
To express an interest or to sign up, students or parents should call 0191 247 4020 or visit NCSNORTHEAST.co.uk.