Posted: 19/04/16
Teens celebrate raising £1,700 for charity at adrenaline-filled graduation
A group of teenagers took part in adrenalin-fuelled games at a graduation with a difference whilst celebrating their achievements in completing a once-in-a-lifetime project.
Kitted out in 'camo' the NCS graduates celebrated their success at Adrenalin Jungle in Sherwood Forest
The group of 16 donned their muddy overalls and took part in combat archery, an army assault course and knife and axe throwing activities at Adrenalin Jungle, in Sherwood Forest, this Sunday (17 April) as well as receiving certificates of achievement completing the National Citizen Service (NCS) programme.
The 16 and 17-year-olds spent their half-term holiday taking part in NCS, which has been designed to support young people in their transition to adulthood through residential projects and community-based fundraising activities, delivered locally by West Nottinghamshire College.
NCS is a government-backed, part-residential initiative which provides activities such as outdoor physical challenges in the Derbyshire Peaks, skills-focussed workshops and volunteering or fundraising for local charities and community groups.
Skills and employability provider Ingeus, who deliver NCS across the region in partnership with West Nottinghamshire College, sent graduate manager Charlee Oldham along to the graduation to present the group with their certificates and congratulate them on their success of beating NCS’ local record for fundraising.
Charlee said: “I’m very impressed with this inspiring group of young people. Not only have they successfully completed NCS, but this amount of money they managed to fundraise for these two well-deserving charities is fantastic.
“They have absolutely earned their graduation today. It’s not like any other graduation I’ve ever been to – but it’s a great way to recognise and celebrate their achievements on NCS.”
The enterprising teenagers organised a karaoke and quiz night as well as an eight-hour sponsored fancy dress walk to raise cash for Rethink – a group which provides expert help to people affected by mental illness.
They also donated some of the money to second charity –Thornberry – an animal sanctuary based in Sheffield, where one of the participants works. Almost £1,700 was raised for the two charities.
West Nottinghamshire College’s NCS manager Nigel Oldham said: “This group worked very hard and so very well together.
“I’ve been astounded at their organisational skills in raising such a great amount for their chosen charities. This is the largest amount of money raised through an NCS social action project in this area and they should justifiably be very proud.
“This weekend’s graduation with a difference was a very fitting and fun way to congratulate everyone together and say thank you for their time, energy and their willingness to try new things.”
