Highfields Centre was selected as a partner organisation to deliver a local & memorable community NCS experience for 33 young individuals (aged 16-18 years), aimed at fostering personal growth, teamwork, and their skill development to further prepare them for the world of work and gain independent life skills.
Each experience lasted 12 hours during which young people were encouraged to participate in social and recreational experiences to improve confidence and social skills, learn a breadth of practical skills by having a hands-on involvement in cooking, baking, leading sports activities as well as producing short films, photos and sharing experiences via hosting podcasts with new attendees to the club to understand young people’s needs and issues better.
The four areas we focused on were:
- Develop Life Skills & Independent living.
- Build Employability & Work Readiness
- Enable social mixing from different backgrounds.
- Residential Experience
Over the weekend residential, participants engaged in a diverse range of activities designed to challenge and inspire them. From the heights of rock climbing to the serenity of canoeing, the adrenaline-pumping zip-lining, and the precision of archery, each activity offered a unique opportunity for self-discovery and skill enhancement, allowing them to develop their skillset & confidence.
Beyond the thrill of adventure, the NCS experience served as a platform for forging lasting friendships. Through shared challenges and triumphs, participants bonded and supported one another. These connections extended beyond the weekend, providing a strong foundation for ongoing personal growth and community building.
As part of the programme, participants collaborated on the creation of a recipe book, showcasing their culinary talents and creativity. This initiative not only honed practical skills in cooking and recipe development but also fostered teamwork, communication, and cultural exchange. The recipe book stands as a tangible reminder of the bonds formed and the diverse talents within the group.
The success of the NCS experience would not be possible without the dedication and expertise of Highfields Centre’s youth workers. Their guidance and mentorship provided a safe and nurturing environment for participants to explore their potential, overcome obstacles, and celebrate their achievements. Their commitment to empowering young people is evident in the positive outcomes observed throughout the programme. Some young people who were experiencing low self-esteem, and encountering issues at home had stated they were undergoing some experimental social habits and felt the NCS Programme has created safe spaces to explore pathways to understand and reduce their intake and consumption of tobacco, vapes and alcohol amongst the older cohorts.
The NCS experience at Highfields Centre exemplifies the transformative power of adventure, friendship, and youth work. Through engaging activities, meaningful connections, and skill-building opportunities, participants emerge with increased confidence, resilience, and a sense of belonging.
