Posted: 09/10/15
Youngsters rewarded for project efforts
More than 380 young people stepped up to the stage this week at two glittering events at Center Parcs to celebrate their success in life-changing projects.
Some of the NCS graduates celebrating at Center Parcs
The teenagers have been involved in the National Citizen Service (NCS) scheme, which is designed to support young people in their transition to adulthood through residential projects and community-based fundraising activities.
The NCS is a government-led initiative which provides activities such as residential projects, outdoor physical challenges like orienteering and walking in the Derbyshire Peaks, taking part in sporting games and raising money for charities through group-led activities.
Groups got involved in activities such as abseiling, forestry work and renovating a community garden, a triathlon, a charity fun day at a local pub and volunteering on the Cromford Canal restoration project.
Center Parcs played host to two graduation ceremonies for the 16 and 17-year-olds on Wednesday and Thursday (7 and 8 October) who had taken part in a range of projects via West Nottinghamshire College.
Project leader for NCS at West Nottinghamshire College, Nigel Oldham, said: “Yet again it has been an honour to congratulate another intake of young people through the NCS programme. It’s been a great success and we’ve watched many of these individuals enjoy challenging experiences, bond with new friends and bring great ideas to fruition.
“We’re completely overwhelmed also by the amount of money raised for the various charities chosen through the social action projects. More than £11,000 was raised through some very imaginative schemes for charities including Jigsaw, The Hall, the Sir John Eastwood Hospice, MIND, the Salvation Army and North Notts Deaf Children’s Society.”
