Member Article

Schools help add £1m to North East economy

North East schools contributed to a £1million youth volunteering boost for the region’s economy, says National Citizen Service (NCS) North East, with further growth anticipated in 2017.

Jessica Taplin, CEO of national youth charity V•Inspired, which runs NCS in the region in partnership with National Youth Agency (NYA), said: “Young people in our region gave over 214,000 hours volunteering through NCS last year.

“That’s equivalent to £1million injected into local communities – not to mention the massive investment in equipping thousands of teenagers to build bright futures. Our valued partnerships with schools have been absolutely key to broadening access to NCS and ultimately making this happen.“

As part of NCS, young people create and deliver projects in their community, helping causes they care about. This gives them real world work experience and develops skills that enhance CVs and UCAS statements.

Now the world’s biggest youth movement, NCS is set for further growth as available places on the scheme – each worth around £1,500 – continue to expand in the region. It is also to be given a permanent statutory footing through the NCS Bill, which is currently progressing through parliament.

Kim Smith, NCS North East contract director, said: “We’re delighted that, so early in 2017, some 92% of the region’s schools have already chosen to work with us to offer the exciting NCS summer programme to their learners. It’s a testament to their innovation in ensuring teens get the skills they need for life, work, and studying.

“The partnerships we’re forging with local authorities, apprenticeships providers, community organisations and businesses will give even more teenagers the chance to take part.“

Schools that proactively engage with NCS qualify for the annual Star Schools Awards, which last year saw a dozen schools given a gong. The prestigious ceremony, held behind the scenes at Beamish Museum, was hosted by teenagers from across the region and provided a unique opportunity to network with regional and national influencers. In addition, more than 20 schools have secured national Champion School status.

NCS builds resilience and grit in young people, as well as confidence, leadership and communication skills – all of which are vital for employability and life.

NCS graduate Graham Smith, 18, of Gateshead, said: “I am proud and passionate about helping others.I’ve struggled to keep my CV to three pages as it’s so full of things I’ve done with NCS!“

The unique social mix on NCS as well as the focus on encouraging young people to step out of their comfort zones, also prepares young people for the diversity and challenges of the workplace.

NCS places cost £50 (£10 for those qualifying for free school meals), covering training, travel, accommodation, food and more. Thousands of teens have already signed up for the unmissable summer experience. Visit NCSNORTHEAST.CO.UK or call 0191 2474020 to book.

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