Member Article

North Shields school awarded NCS 'champion status'

Norham High School, North Shields, has been named a ‘champion school’ by the National Citizen Service (NCS)

The school achieved champion status because of its commitment to encouraging and supporting pupils to take part in the programme.

The NCS is a government-backed programme that helps young people gain vital skills and training.

The pupils took part in a range of activities including an adventure-packed outdoor residential and a university-style residential that helped build confidence, leadership and communication skills. They also planned and delivered social action projects that aimed to make a difference in the North Tyneside community.

Projects included the intergenerational and inspirational ‘Humans of North Tyneside’ community project that shared emotional and moving life stories of people living in the area. They also undertook local park revamps and awareness-building into youth homelessness.

At the end of the programme, the pupils were awarded certificates signed by the Prime Minister.

Executive Headteacher at Norham High School, David Baldwin said: “We’re really pleased to support the NCS programme as it offers our pupils some great opportunities to gain new skills as well as give something back to the community.

“NCS has already benefitted many of our pupils, helping them to grow in confidence and character and offering them a positive springboard to success.

“We’re delighted to receive champion school status and will continue to encourage our young people to take part in the NCS programme.“

Chris Byrne, NCS Recruitment Team Leader, said: “The staff and students at Norham High School have shown great support in embracing NCS.

“Places are now open for next summer’s NCS and I’d urge year 11 students to sign up and change their summer.“

The programme, which runs over the summer holidays, is government-backed which 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 the young people get to meet new people and enjoy adventure, fun and freedom. On their return home they spend time developing life skills like confidence, leadership and communication. They’ll then work with their NCS team to deliver their own community project - making a lasting impact on the local area.

As well as helping to boost confidence and develop skills, NCS also helps to boost CVs and is recognised by UCAS, who encourage the scheme to be listed on personal statements.

Places are now open for the summer 2017 NCS programme. Pupils or parents can express an interest at NCSNORTHEAST.co.uk or by calling 0191 247 4020.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by NCS North East .